[Solved] Origin of the Rupee | Sher Shah Suri's Coinage

The pure silver 'rupiya' was issued by

[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]

⚡ Generate AI Quick Summary

Correct Option: B

The pure silver coin known as 'Rupiya' was first issued by Sher Shah Suri. It replaced older mixed-metal coins and became the standardized model for future Indian currency.

A. Akbar

B. Sher Shah

C. Jahangir

D. Aurangzeb

Analysis & Evidence

Concept

Sher Shah Suri (reigned 1540–1545) was a brilliant administrator whose economic reforms, particularly in currency, set the standard for the later Mughal Empire.

Authentic Source Evidence

Sher Shah replaced the debased mixed-metal (billon) tanka with a high-quality pure silver coin weighing 178 grains (approx 11 grams), which he called the Rupiya.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: This silver Rupiya became the basis for the Indian currency and was adopted with little change by the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Logic 2: He also introduced the copper Dam for small transactions and standardized the gold Mohur, creating a balanced trimetallic system.

Historical Logic Quest

"What was the significance of the 178-grain weight of the Rupiya?"

It established a highly trusted standard of purity and weight that was so effective it remained the basis for Indian coinage through the British era.

The Topper's Edge

"The 'Rupiya' is one of Sher Shah Suri's most enduring legacies, surviving through various regimes to become the name of India's modern currency."

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