Punch Marked Coins: Symbols
Punch marked coins feature a variety of symbols that hold significance. These symbols were punched onto the surface of the coins and often carried meanings related to governance, religion, or trade.
Common symbols found on punch marked coins include:
- Sun symbol: Representing solar deities or cosmic forces.
- Crescent moon: Associated with lunar deities and cycles of time.
- Animal motifs: Such as elephants, horses, and bulls, symbolizing power or prosperity.
- Geometric shapes: Including circles, squares, and triangles, possibly indicating mint marks or regional identifiers.
- Human figures: Depicting rulers, gods, or mythical beings, signifying authority or divine protection.
These symbols not only served as decorative elements but also have important messages about the issuer of the coin, its value, and the cultural context in which it circulated.
Punch Marked Coins
The introduction of punch-marked coins was an important turning point in the history of currency. It indicates the first regular form of monetary transaction in the society. Punched coins are proofs of past economies. It provides insights into the business activity and political structures of past societies. These old coins are in asymmetrical shapes and have imprinted marks.
Let’s explore the production of punch-marked coins by different organizations and how they influenced the development of early monetary systems.
Table of Content
- Punch Marked Coins
- Punch Marked Coins: Overview (Table)
- Punch Marked Coins: History
- Punch Marked Coins: Symbols
- Punch Marked Coins Issued by Mahajanapadas
- Punch Marked Coins Issued by Mauryan Period