Contribution of Coins to Indian History
Contribution of Coins to the Study of Indian History 1. Importance of Numismatic Studies Numismatics is the study of coins, discovered through excavations or accidental finds. Coins provide crucial historical evidence, confirming, modifying, or amplifying history. They reveal information about political, economic, religious, and cultural aspects. Coins help in understanding administration, historical geography, and artistic material evidence. 2. Sources for the Discovery of Ancient Indian Coins 2.1 Treasure Troves Coins found as hoards, often buried for safekeeping. Examples: Bayana hoard (1821, Bharatpur, Rajasthan): Gupta gold coins. Tarhala hoard (Maharashtra): Satavahana coins. Jogilthembi hoard (Nashik, Maharashtra): 13,250 silver coins. Treasure trove laws: Ancient India: Kings were considered the owner of buried treasures. Indian Treasure Trove Act (1878): Government can claim unearthed treasures exceeding ₹10. 2.2 Excavations...