Question

The silver coin Pana, was a standard currency during the time of _______.

• A. Guptas
• B. Mauryas
• C. Harsha
• D. Kanishka

Answer 1

The correct option is B Mauryas

The coins of Mauryan period manifest that they were cut and clipped for proper weight and adjustments. The coins were struck in conceivable geometric form including round, oval and elliptical. The coins showcased only one symbol and it had been observed that the idea was perhaps taken from the Vedic period. Later the number of symbols increased and the punching devices of these coins had no inscriptions but they bore a number of symbols. The symbols varied from geometrical and floral patterns, with hills, birds, animals, reptiles, human figures and the like. A particular symbol stands for the representation of a particular place or area. Often the flans or planchets of the coins were smaller than the size of the punches. Sometimes, in an attempt to accommodate the complete symbols; they were punched together, one overlapping another. Several symbols were introduced in the ancient Indian coins abut with the commencement period of the Mauryan empire the symbols got a bolder look. The earlier coins with five symbols were a representation of a particular feature. Even silver punch marked coins were also issued during this age. Silver coins were found in four denominations viz. 'pana', 'ardha-pana', 'pada' and 'asta-bhaga' or 'ardhapadika'. These coins were issued from the mints of the Mauryan Empire as per 'Arthasastra'.