Archaeological Discoveries in Tamil Nadu Unearth Rare Coins and Ancient Stones
Rare coins and ancient stones unearthed in Tamil Nadu reveal rich historical insights.
Photo by Hulki Okan Tabak
Archaeologists in Tamil Nadu have unearthed a significant cache of rare coins and ancient stones, providing valuable insights into the region's rich historical past. These discoveries, made at a prominent archaeological site, include artifacts dating back centuries, shedding light on ancient trade routes, cultural practices, and societal structures.
Such findings are crucial for reconstructing historical narratives and understanding the evolution of civilizations in India. For UPSC aspirants, these discoveries are important for GS1 History and Culture, particularly regarding ancient Indian history and archaeological sites.
Key Facts
Rare coins and ancient stones discovered in Tamil Nadu.
Findings provide insights into ancient trade, culture, and society.
Archaeological discoveries are crucial for historical reconstruction.
UPSC Exam Angles
Ancient Indian History: Focus on South Indian dynasties, Sangam Age, and pre-Sangam cultures.
Art and Culture: Evolution of coinage, pottery, stone artifacts, and their cultural significance.
Archaeological Sites: Knowledge of prominent sites in Tamil Nadu and their key findings.
Trade Routes: Understanding ancient maritime and land trade links, especially Indo-Roman trade.
Historical Reconstruction: How archaeological evidence complements and sometimes contradicts literary sources.
Visual Insights
Archaeological Discoveries in Tamil Nadu
This map highlights the state of Tamil Nadu, where recent significant archaeological discoveries of rare coins and ancient stones have been made. It marks Keezhadi, a prominent site in Tamil Nadu known for its Sangam Age excavations, as a representative location for such findings, providing geographical context to the news.
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Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding prominent archaeological sites in Tamil Nadu: 1. Keeladi has provided evidence of an urban settlement dating back to the Sangam Age, suggesting a highly developed civilization. 2. Arikamedu is known for its extensive findings of Roman artifacts, indicating a thriving Indo-Roman trade port. 3. Adichanallur is primarily associated with megalithic urn burials and iron age artifacts, predating the Sangam period. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three statements are correct. Keeladi excavations have indeed revealed a sophisticated urban settlement of the Sangam Age, pushing back the timeline of urbanisation in South India. Arikamedu is a well-known ancient Roman trade station on the Coromandel Coast, famous for Roman pottery, coins, and other artifacts. Adichanallur is a significant prehistoric site known for its extensive urn burials and iron age findings, indicating a culture that predates or was contemporary with the early Sangam period.
2. In the context of ancient trade and coinage in South India, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. The discovery of numerous Roman gold and silver coins in South India primarily indicates a favourable balance of trade for the Roman Empire. 2. Punch-marked coins, often found in ancient sites across India, represent some of the earliest indigenous coinage systems. 3. The 'Periplus of the Erythraean Sea' provides valuable insights into the maritime trade routes connecting South Indian ports with the Western world during the early centuries CE. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect. The discovery of numerous Roman coins in South India, particularly gold and silver, suggests a *favourable balance of trade for South India*, as Roman wealth flowed into the region in exchange for spices, textiles, and other goods. Statement 2 is correct. Punch-marked coins are indeed among the earliest forms of coinage in ancient India, dating back to the 6th century BCE. Statement 3 is correct. The 'Periplus of the Erythraean Sea' is an anonymous Greek text from the 1st century CE that describes trade and navigation in the Indian Ocean, including detailed accounts of ports and trade goods along the Indian coast.
3. Which of the following statements about the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and its role in preserving cultural heritage is NOT correct?
- A.ASI is the premier organization for archaeological research and protection of cultural heritage in India.
- B.It functions under the Ministry of Culture and is responsible for archaeological excavations and conservation of ancient monuments.
- C.The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, is the primary legislation governing ASI's activities.
- D.State Archaeology Departments operate independently and do not collaborate with ASI on major excavation projects.
Show Answer
Answer: D
Statement D is NOT correct. State Archaeology Departments often collaborate closely with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on various excavation, conservation, and research projects within their respective states. While they have their own mandates and projects, collaboration is common and crucial for comprehensive archaeological work. Statements A, B, and C are correct. ASI is indeed the apex body for archaeology in India, operating under the Ministry of Culture, and its functions are primarily governed by the AMASR Act, 1958 (and its subsequent amendments).