Question

Who issued coins playing Veena?

• A. Bimbisara
• B. Ashoka
• C. Kanishka
• D. Samudragupta

Hint:

Emperor Ashoka was known for his patronage of arts and culture, and his coins often depicted him engaging in musical and artistic activities.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the historical context.
Emperor Ashoka, who ruled the Indian subcontinent in the 3rd century BCE, is known to have issued coins depicting a variety of symbols and images. One of the coins issued during his reign showed him playing the veena, symbolizing his patronage of arts and culture.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) Bimbisara: Bimbisara was a ruler of the Magadh Empire, but he did not issue coins depicting a veena.
(B) Ashoka: Correct. Ashoka is known to have issued coins depicting various symbols, including one where he is shown playing the veena.
(C) Kanishka: Kanishka was a Kushan emperor, but he did not issue coins with this specific imagery.
(D) Samudragupta: Samudragupta was an important Gupta emperor, but his coins did not depict him playing the veena.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (B) Ashoka, as he issued coins depicting him playing the veena.