Question map
Which one of the following statements about Gupta coins is not correct?
Explanation
The Gupta dynasty is renowned for its extensive gold coinage, which were known as Dinars. These coins typically featured the ruling monarch on the obverse and various deities, particularly goddesses, on the reverse. Silver coinage was introduced by Chandragupta II after the conquest of the Western Kshatrapas and continued under successors like Kumaragupta I, Skandagupta, and Budhagupta. However, statement 4 is incorrect because the Guptas issued a large number of gold coins but comparatively few silver and copper coins [1]. While copper coins were issued, primarily during the reign of Chandragupta II, they are considered scarce compared to the profusion of gold issues. The abundance of gold led contemporary scholars to describe the period as a 'rain of gold,' contrasting with the limited circulation of copper currency.
Sources
- [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 7: The Guptas > Trade and Commerce > p. 97