What were the coins minted in Delhi during the reign of Tomar and Chauhan called?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2: Dehliwal.
Explanation:
- Delhi emerged as a significant commercial hub during the reigns of the Tomara and Chauhan Rajputs. The coins minted in Delhi during this period were known as 'Dehliwal'.
- Circulation: These coins were widely utilized in trade and commerce. Their popularity was such that even the early Sultans of the Delhi Sultanate retained their influence within their own monetary systems.
- Metal Composition: Dehliwal coins were primarily minted from copper and billon (mixed silver alloy).
- Iconography: These coins frequently featured depictions of Hindu symbols, such as the 'Bull' (Nandi) and the 'Horseman'.
Other Important Facts Related to Coins (For Revision):
The evolution of coinage in Indian history is a crucial topic for competitive examinations. Listed below are some other renowned coins:
| Coin | Ruler/Dynasty | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Tanka and Jital | Iltutmish (Delhi Sultanate) | Tanka was a silver coin, while Jital was a copper coin. |
| Rupia | Sher Shah Suri | Considered the precursor to the modern Indian Rupee. |
| Dinar | Gupta Dynasty | The gold coins of the Gupta period were called Dinars. |
| Punch-Marked Coins | Mauryan Period | The oldest known coins of India. |
Historical Context (The Rise of Delhi):
- Tomara Dynasty: Anangpal Tomara founded Delhi (Dhillika) in the mid-12th century.
- Chauhan Dynasty: The Chauhans of Ajmer (most notably Prithviraj Chauhan) defeated the Tomaras and established their control over Delhi.
- Commercial Hub: Under the patronage of these very Rajput rulers, affluent Jain merchants resided in Delhi; they commissioned the construction of numerous temples and played a key role in promoting the circulation of 'Dehliwal' coins.
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: Which Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate introduced the 'Tanka' and 'Jital'? Answer: Iltutmish.
Question: 'Dehliwals' coins were made of which metal?
Answer: A mixture of copper and silver (Billon).
Question: From the coins of which medieval ruler did the modern word 'Rupee' originate?
Answer: Sher Shah Suri.