Which of the following Gupta kings had issued ‘Ashvamedh’ type of gold coin ?

The correct answer is - Kumaragupta I

Key Points

• Kumaragupta I
  • He was one of the prominent rulers of the Gupta Empire, known for his administrative and military achievements.
  • Kumaragupta I issued Ashvamedha type of gold coins, which symbolized the horse sacrifice ritual.
  • The Ashvamedha ritual was performed to assert the sovereignty of the ruler over other territories.
  • The coins were typically characterized by depictions of a horse and inscriptions related to the ritual.
  • This issuance reflects the political significance of the ritual in legitimizing the ruler's authority.

Additional Information

• Gupta Empire Coinage
  • The Gupta rulers issued coins made of gold, silver, and copper, demonstrating the empire's economic prosperity.
  • The coins often depicted cultural and religious motifs, such as deities, rituals, and symbols of power.
  • Gold coins, known as Dinaras, were particularly noteworthy for their artistic excellence.
• Significance of Ashvamedha Ritual
  • Performed by ancient Indian kings to establish their supremacy and proclaim their undisputed rule.
  • It involved the release of a sacred horse, which traveled freely across territories to assert the king's dominance.
  • Any opposition to the horse's movement led to a military challenge, reinforcing the king's authority.
• Other Gupta Kings and Coinage
  • Chandragupta I: Known for initiating the Gupta era but not for issuing Ashvamedha coins.
  • Kumaragupta II: Ruler after Kumaragupta I, but there is no evidence of Ashvamedha coin issuance under his reign.
  • Ramagupta: Associated more with legends than historical achievements; no significant coinage is attributed to him.