2012 - 60 Years of Kolkata Mint | Commemorative Coin

The 1st commemorative coin for the year 2012 was released to mark the celebration of 60 years or Diamond Jubilee of India Government Mint, Kolkata.

Kolkata has a rich history of mints dating back to the pre-independence era. The initial mint, known as the Calcutta Mint, was established in 1757. Situated adjacent to the Black Hole in the old fort, where the General Post Office (GPO) stands today, it produced coins bearing the mint name Murshidabad.

The second Calcutta Mint, equipped with modern machinery imported from England in 1790, found its home at the Gillet Ship building Establishment site. This location, taken over by the Stamp and Stationary Committee in 1833, continued the tradition of coins stamped with the Murshidabad mint name.

The third Calcutta Mint commenced operations on 1 August 1829. Until 1835, the coins it produced retained the name of the Murshidabad Mint.

In the late 1930s, groundwork began for a new mint in New Alipore. However, due to the disruptions caused by World War II, its completion was delayed until the early 1950s.

The Alipore Mint was inaugurated by the Honorable Finance Minister of the Government of India, Shree C. D. Deshmukh, on 19 March 1952. It commenced full-scale operations, focusing on coinage and the preparation of medals, decorations, and badges. In addition to producing coins for domestic use, the Alipore Mint has played a role in minting coins for other nations, showcasing its significance in the global arena.

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