Best Answer : Delhi Sultanate Currency System: A Glance at Medieval Indian Coinage
The Currency System of the Delhi Sultans
The Delhi Sultanate, which spanned from the 13th to the 16th centuries, saw the establishment of a unique and evolving currency system that reflected the political, economic, and cultural changes of the time. The currency system under the Delhi Sultans can be described as follows:
1. Silver Tanka:
The principal currency used during the Delhi Sultanate was the silver tanka. The tanka was a well-established unit of currency that had been in use since the time of the Ghaznavid rulers. It was a silver coin, and its weight and purity varied under different rulers and dynasties. The tanka was widely accepted and used for both large and small transactions.
2. Gold Coins:
While silver was the primary metal used for coins, gold coins were also issued, although they were less common. The gold coins, known as mohurs, were generally reserved for larger transactions and trade with other regions. These coins bore inscriptions in Arabic or Persian.
3. Bullion:
Apart from standardized coins, bullion in the form of silver bars and ingots was used in large transactions and trade. Bullion was weighed to determine its value and was a crucial component of the economic system.
4. Copper and Billon Coins:
Copper and billon coins were issued in smaller denominations for day-to-day transactions. These coins, often known as jitals, fulfilled the need for small change. Like the silver tanka, they varied in weight and purity under different rulers.
5. Inscriptions and Calligraphy:
The coins issued by the Delhi Sultans were often adorned with intricate inscriptions in Arabic or Persian calligraphy. These inscriptions usually included the ruler’s name, title, and other information. The coins also sometimes featured religious verses and proclamations.
6. Local Variations:
The currency system was not uniform across all regions of the Delhi Sultanate. Local rulers and governors often issued their own coinage, resulting in regional variations in design and purity.
7. Cultural Significance:
The coins issued by the Delhi Sultans hold cultural and historical significance. They not only serve as valuable sources of historical information but also reflect the artistic and calligraphic skills of the time.
The currency system of the Delhi Sultans evolved with changes in rulers and dynasties. It was a reflection of the economic and political landscape of the time and played a vital role in trade, taxation, and governance. The coins issued during this period remain valuable historical artifacts that provide insights into the rich history of the Delhi Sultanate and medieval India.
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