© Enkidu (CC BY-SA)
© Enkidu (CC BY-SA)
1 Karshapana - Magadha Janapada 592 BC - 370 BC
| Silver | 3.28 g | - |
| Issuer | Magadha Kingdom (Janapadas (pre-Mauryan)) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 592 BC - 370 BC |
| Value | Karshapana |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.28 g |
| Size | 24 × 22 mm |
| Shape | Rectangular (irregular) |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#435571 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Blank.
Comment
Gupta/Hardaker Series I XXX III A3
Series I sees the introduction of a standard karshapana weight of 3.4 grams (traditionally 32 rattis, a ratti being the weight of a gunga seed, and still used in contemporary India as a jewelers weight). Series I coins have broad flans and established the five-mark system that would continue to the end of the Mauryan and Sunga period. The sun symbol with oblique rays (as in this coin) disappears from Series II on.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 1 Karshapana coin from Magadha Janapada is that it was used as a form of currency during a time when bartering was still a common practice. The use of coins as a medium of exchange helped to simplify trade and commerce, and paved the way for the development of more advanced economic systems.
