History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c14.12

v1.c14.12

The method of coining indicated by Kauṭilya might well be applicable to the manufacturing of many of the above noted types of archaic coins including ‘punch-marked’ pieces. Unfortunately archaeological remains of any mint used for producing such coins have not yet come to light. Nevertheless, we have data to indicate atleast the major stages in the production of these coins. The manufacturing method does not appear to have been very sophisticated. In fact, the practice of stamping semi-molten lump or drop of metal or striking the blank successively (or at intervals) from different dies (as on punch-marked pieces) was laborious as well as detrimental to the quality of production. However, devices or symbols stamped carefully with well engraved dies could have produced clear and artistic reproductions on blanks.