UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2026

Consider the following statements: I. Pali texts contain the first definite references to coins, e.g., kahapana, nikkha, kamsa, and kakanika. II. The literary evidence from Pali texts is corroborated by archaeological evidence of punch-marked coins from many sites, most of them made of silver. The above statements have been associated with which of the following? 1. Emergence of urban life 2. Transition to money economy Select the answer using the code given below:

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer

Correct Answer

Both 1 and 2

Explanation

References to coins in Pali literature, supported by archaeological evidence of punch-marked coins, are associated with both the emergence of urban centres and the transition from a predominantly barter-based economy towards monetization. The growth of trade, markets and urban settlements during the period of the Mahajanapadas was closely connected with the increasing use of coinage.

Topics: ancient history, coinage, pali literature, urbanization