Who issued the first coins bearing the names of rulers?a)Mauryasb)Gupt...
The first coins to bear the names and images of rulers were issued by the Indo-Greeks, who established control over the north-western part of the subcontinent in second century BCE.
Who issued the first coins bearing the names of rulers?a)Mauryasb)Gupt...
The correct answer is c) Indo-Greeks.
The Indo-Greeks were a group of Greek ruling dynasties who reigned over parts of northwestern India between the 2nd century BCE and the 1st century CE. They were the first rulers to issue coins bearing their names.
The Indo-Greeks were descendants of the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom, which was established in Bactria (modern-day Afghanistan) after the conquests of Alexander the Great. After the death of Alexander, his empire was divided among his generals, and one of them, Seleucus I Nicator, established the Seleucid Empire, which included parts of Persia and Bactria.
The Indo-Greeks emerged as a separate ruling dynasty in Bactria and eventually expanded their territory into northwestern India. They established their capital at Taxila (in present-day Pakistan) and ruled over regions such as Gandhara (modern-day Afghanistan and Pakistan) and Punjab.
The Indo-Greeks introduced a new style of coinage to the Indian subcontinent. Their coins were made of silver and depicted the rulers' portraits, along with Greek inscriptions. These coins followed the Greek tradition of depicting the ruler's profile on the obverse side, while the reverse side featured various symbols and Greek legends.
The introduction of coins bearing the names of rulers had significant implications. It allowed the rulers to establish their authority and assert their power over their territories. The coins served as a medium of exchange, facilitating trade and commerce. They also played a role in spreading Hellenistic culture and influence in the region.
The Indo-Greek coins had a lasting impact on the Indian numismatic tradition. Their style and design influenced subsequent dynasties, such as the Kushanas and the Gupta Empire. The Gupta Empire, in particular, is known for its exquisite gold coins, which continued the tradition of featuring rulers' portraits on the obverse side.
In conclusion, the Indo-Greeks were the first rulers to issue coins bearing their names. Their introduction of this coinage style in northwestern India had significant political, economic, and cultural implications and influenced subsequent dynasties in the region.