[Solved] Who introduced the Silver Tanka? | Iltutmish Coins

Who was the medieval king responsible for introducing the silver coin called 'Tanka' in North India?

[U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2013]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

The standardization of currency was a crucial step in the institutionalization of the Delhi Sultanate. Before Iltutmish, coinage was irregular and often borrowed from local patterns.

Authentic Source Evidence

Iltutmish introduced the Silver Tanka, weighing 175 grains, which became the standard unit of currency for centuries, eventually evolving into the modern Rupee.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The Tanka was the higher-denomination silver coin, while the Jital was the lower-denomination copper coin.

Logic 2: This system allowed for easier trade, payment of salaries, and tax collection across the Sultanate's growing territories.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What metal was used for the 'Jital' coin?"

The Jital was a copper coin used for smaller everyday transactions in the Sultanate.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Iltutmish's bimetallic system (silver/copper) provided the economic stability required for the Sultanate to transition into a permanent empire."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Tanka 2Monetary Standardization 3

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