U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2019

Mughal Administration and Economy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Given below are two statements: **Assertion (A):** Akbar, like Shershah, tried to regulate the currency of the state. **Reason (R):** As in Shershah's currency, the chief copper coin of Akbar's time was the Dam.

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Mughal coinage reached its peak of standardization under Akbar, who built upon the foundations laid by Shershah Suri's trimetallic system of gold, silver, and copper.

Explanation Akbar standardized minting via Khwaja Abdus Samad. While he adopted Shershah's principles, the specific terminologies and roles of coins like the Dam and Tanka evolved during his reign.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Assertion (A) is true. Akbar reformed the currency to ensure purity and standardization, much like Shershah's earlier efforts.
Logic 2: Reason (R) is false. While the Dam became a staple copper coin, the chief or earliest significant copper coins in Akbar's time were often referred to as the Tanka or Neem Tanka. The Dam's standardized value was primarily for accounting and weights in the later administrative setup.

Active Recall

Question

What was the lasting impact of Akbar's currency reforms?

Answer

He created a stable and trusted currency system that facilitated long-distance trade and became the basis for Indian coinage for centuries.

Core Insight

Akbar's system was so robust that it resisted debasement, maintaining its metal purity even during periods of military stress.