History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c38.s2.t1.10

v1.c38.s2.t1.10

The *Arthaśāstra* of Kauṭilya gives a detail description as to the varieties of balances, measures to check the inaccuracy of balances, methods of state control of weights under the superintendent of weights and measures (*Paṇtādhyakṣa*). The coins were also struck in gold, silver and copper in accurate weights besides commercial activities of ornaments and commodities. Strict steps were taken to avoid debasement of currency metals. The dust currency of gold and silver (*cūrṇi* or *cūrṇa*) were also in vouge. The accurate weights were considered important for all these activities.