According to the Arthashastra, the standard Mauryan silver punch-marked coin was called —

This question examines a key feature of Mauryan political history, administration, economy, art, religion, or epigraphy. The correct answer is Karshapana or pana. The Mauryan silver punch-marked currency is commonly called karshapana or pana in the Arthashastra tradition. Mashaka and kakani were smaller denominations, while suvarna referred to gold. Reading the wording closely is therefore essential, especially when the question uses expressions such as ‘according to the Arthashastra’, ‘major rock edict’, ‘traditionally associated’, or ‘first used widely’.