Mauryan Empire Karshapana – Founded by Chandragupta Maurya around 320 BCE – Punch Marked Silver Coin

The Mauryan Empire, 322 to 185 BCE, Founded by Chandragupta Maurya around 320 BCE, Punch Marked Silver Coin, Karshapana, Magadha Janapada, Silver, 3.29g, 16.50×14.05mm, Fine, Scarce.

The Punch Marked Coin (PMC) of the Mauryan Empire reflects one of the earliest forms of currency in ancient India. Issued during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya (circa 320 BCE) and continued by his successors, these silver coins were not die-struck but individually punched with symbols like the sun, animals, and geometric shapes. The Mauryan Empire, with its capital at Pataliputra (modern Patna), established a vast and centralized administration. These coins were widely used for trade and state transactions, showcasing economic strength and political control. PMCs from the Mauryan period mark the foundation of standardized currency in Indian history.