In which period issued the gold coins for the first time in ancient India?

The correct answer is - Indo-Greeks rule

Key Points

• Indo-Greeks rule
  • The Indo-Greek kings were the first to introduce gold coins in ancient India.
  • The practice began around the 2nd century BCE under the rule of the Indo-Greek king, Menander I (Milinda).
  • The gold coins minted by the Indo-Greeks were used for trade and depicted various deities and inscriptions in Greek and Kharosthi scripts.
  • The introduction of gold coins marked a significant milestone in the economic history of ancient India, facilitating trade and commerce.

Additional Information

• Kushanas
  • The Kushanas also minted gold coins, but they did so after the Indo-Greeks.
  • Under the rule of Kanishka, the Kushanas issued gold coins that were significant for their artistic value and depicted various deities.
• Parthians
  • The Parthians ruled parts of northwestern India, but they did not introduce gold coinage in India.
  • Their coinage primarily consisted of silver and copper coins.
• Satavahana dynasty
  • The Satavahanas were known for their silver and lead coinage, not gold.
  • They played a significant role in the trade networks of the Deccan region.