UPSC Prelims 1998·GS1·history·ancient history

What is the correct chronological order in which the following appeared in India? I. Gold coins II. Punch marked silver coins III. Iron plough IV. Urban culture Select the correct answer using the codes given below: Codes:

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  1. AIII, IV, I, II
  2. BIII, IV, II, I
  3. CIV, III, I, II
  4. DIV, III, II, ICorrect

Explanation

The correct chronological order is determined by the historical eras in which these developments first emerged in India. First is Urban Culture which dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization around 2500 BC. This is the earliest known organized urban life in the subcontinent. Second is the Iron Plough which became prevalent during the Later Vedic Period around 1000 to 600 BC. The use of iron tools revolutionized agriculture in the Ganges Valley. Third are Punch Marked Silver Coins which appeared during the Mahajanapada period around the 6th century BC. These are considered the earliest form of metallic currency in India. Fourth are Gold Coins which were first issued on a significant scale by the Indo Greeks and later extensively by the Kushanas around the 1st century AD. Therefore the correct sequence is Urban Culture followed by Iron Plough then Punch Marked Silver Coins and finally Gold Coins. This corresponds to the order IV III II I which is option D.
history: What is the correct chronological order in which the following appeared in India? I. Gold coins II. Punch marked silver

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