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Gupta gold coin

Type Object Region India Time c. 320–500

Gupta gold coins are high-purity gold coins issued by the Gupta Empire in the 4th to 6th centuries, often depicting kings riding elephants, fire ritu…

Timeline

  1. c. 320–400Around Pataliputra · IndiaAfter the Gupta polity consolidated power in the early 4th century, standardized gold coins were issued, using high-purity gold and uniform weight to support imperial finances and the gift economy, with coin imagery emphasizing the legitimacy of royal authority.
  2. c. 400–500North India–Central Asia trade route · IndiaAround the 5th century, Gupta gold coins traveled with caravans to Central Asia and Southeast Asia; coin imagery and Sanskrit titles varied under different rulers, reflecting dynastic succession and adjustments in religious policy.

Sources