An all-day manuscript and numismatics exhibition was hosted by the Department of International Studies, Political Science and History on the 28th of February, 2020. The exhibition featured coins from 4 periods- Ancient, Medieval, Modern and Contemporary. Coins from the Mughal Era, the Mauryan Era, the Tughlaq dynasty, Vijaynagara Empire, Hoysala and British India were also displayed.
The currencies from several countries that have gone out of circulation and or are currently in circulation were also showcased at the exhibition. The currencies and coins were presented through detailed information cards that stated their period of circulation and other interesting facts like the kinds of metals that were used to make the coins and even the levels of financial independency of various kingdoms.
It was fascinating to learn how different coins and currencies were shaped to fit the priorities of the time in which they were circulated. Some coins were shaped like hair clips as, during their period of circulation, the threat of pirate attacks were imminent while travelling overseas and thus, such hairclip-shaped coins would be easier to hide. One was very surprised to look at how small certain coins were! Some of them were smaller than a shirt's button.
The exhibition also included a presentation by Mr Guruprasad from MB Shri Prathisthana Cultural Center, who explained the achievements and mechanisms of their organization. Through his presentation, he explained how far the organization had come. He also explained the processes involved in the restoration of manuscripts. The presentation included images of some of the largest and some of the smallest manuscripts that the organization has restored.
The combination of the presentation and the exhibition provided a wholesome learning experience for the students of our department.