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Ancient Numismatics

Gold to Silver Coin Ratio in Shaka-Kshatrapa Period

The ratio of gold to silver coins in the Shaka-Kshatrapa period was 1:35. This reflected the prevailing monetary system where one gold Dinara was equivalent to thirty-five silver Rupakas.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

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What was the ratio of Gold-Silver coins in the Shaka-Kshatrapa period?

[Uttarakhand PCS (Pre) 2021]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Numismatics provides insight into the relative value of precious metals in ancient economies, which in turn reflects trade balances and metal availability.

Authentic Source Evidence


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.

Analytical Breakdown


  • 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.

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What were the gold and silver coins called in this period?"

    The gold coins were called Dinara and the silver coins were called Rupaka.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The 1:35 ratio highlights a significant disparity in metal values compared to the later Gupta period, where gold became more plentiful."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Western Satraps 2Dinara 2
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