Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
What was the ratio of Gold-Silver coins in the Shaka-Kshatrapa period?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
Numismatics provides insight into the relative value of precious metals in ancient economies, which in turn reflects trade balances and metal availability.Explanation
In the Shaka-Kshatrapa period, the exchange ratio between gold and silver coins (Dinara and Rupaka) was established at 1:35. This means one unit of gold was worth 35 units of silver.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Gold coins were relatively scarce and high in value, while silver was the dominant medium for regular commerce in the Western Satrap regions.
Logic 2: The ratio reflects the high demand and limited supply of gold during this transitional period in Western India.
Logic 3: This specific ratio (Option C) is a standard benchmark used by historians to analyze Kushan and Shaka-era monetary policies.