MCQ Detailed View

The rupia as a standardized silver coin was first issued by Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century. Sher Shah Suri, originally named Farid Khan, was the founder of the Suri Empire in northern India after defeating the Mughal emperor Humayun. He is remembered as an able administrator and reformer who introduced significant changes in governance, infrastructure, and currency systems.

Before Sher Shah Suri’s reforms, different regions used various types of coins with inconsistent weights and values, which made trade complicated. In 1540, Sher Shah introduced the silver rupia, weighing 178 grains (about 11.53 grams), which became a reliable and standardized currency across his empire.

This coinage reform not only improved trade within the empire but also laid the foundation for a monetary system that continued under the later Mughal Empire and influenced currency in the Indian subcontinent for centuries. The concept of the rupia eventually evolved into the modern rupee used today in Pakistan, India, and some neighboring countries.

Sher Shah Suri’s introduction of the rupia is considered one of his most lasting contributions to South Asian history, alongside his road-building projects like the Grand Trunk Road, land revenue reforms, and efficient administration. His legacy is still discussed in Pakistan’s history syllabus because of the shared heritage of the region.

Key Points:

• 
  

  First Issuer: Sher Shah Suri

  
  


• 
  

  Introduced In: 1540

  
  


• 
  

  Coin Material: Silver

  
  


• 
  

  Weight: 178 grains (approx. 11.53 grams)

  
  


• 
  

  Purpose: Standardized currency for trade

  
  


• 
  

  Historical Impact: Basis for modern rupee in South Asia