Why this matters now
Coins and inscriptions are tested as historical sources and for specific famous examples (Ashokan edicts, Gupta coins) — a recurring prelims/art-history theme.
Inscriptions (epigraphy)
Inscriptions — on rocks, pillars, copper plates and temple walls — record edicts, grants and events. Key examples: the Ashokan edicts (in Brahmi/Kharosthi), the Allahabad Pillar (Prayag Prashasti) on Samudragupta (by Harisena), the Junagadh inscription (Rudradaman), the Aihole inscription (Pulakeshin II) and the Hathigumpha inscription (Kharavela). James Prinsep deciphered Brahmi.
Coins (numismatics)
Coins reveal chronology, rulers, economy, religion and art. India’s earliest were punch-marked coins; the Indo-Greeks issued fine portrait coins; the Kushanas (gold) and the Guptas produced exquisite gold coins (depicting kings and deities). Coins reflect trade, titles and the spread of scripts.
Significance as sources
Unlike literary sources, coins and inscriptions are contemporary, durable and less prone to exaggeration — invaluable for dating dynasties, mapping empires, and understanding administration, religion and the economy. They are a core part of archaeological sources.
UPSC angle
Know inscriptions (Ashokan edicts, Allahabad Pillar/Samudragupta, Junagadh/Rudradaman, Aihole/Pulakeshin, Hathigumpha/Kharavela; Prinsep deciphered Brahmi) and coins (punch-marked, Indo-Greek, Kushana/Gupta gold) as historical sources.
Frequently asked questions
What is numismatics?
The study of coins, which serve as important sources for history, economy and culture.
What is epigraphy?
The study of inscriptions, a key source for reconstructing political and social history.
Who deciphered the Brahmi script?
James Prinsep, in the 19th century.
Which dynasty is famous for gold coins?
The Guptas (and earlier the Kushanas) issued exquisite gold coins.