Depiction of Jagannath temple of Puri on the Portuguese paper currency

Abstract

Before the introduction of metal and paper currency the medium of exchange was barter system. Over the centuries numerous types and designs of coins in various metals were issued by the rulers and kings. Paper currency was never introduced by the rulers of India; however Europeans introduced the paper currency in India. Among the Europeans, Portuguese were the first to land on Indian soil for trade and commerce. They had issued paper currencies in India. Many Indian languages and various social and religious monuments were printed on them. Jagannath temple of Puri was one among them. The paper details the Portuguese trade and commerce in Orissa, issue of paper currency and details of paper currency are ascribed in relation to the Portuguese rule in India.