Numismatics Collections

Every coin in India are minted through various mints and has mintmark, a unique symbol to identify the origin of the coin. The purpose of the mint mark is more for traceability purposes. India has four mints with some of the mints existing before Independence.  The latest mint was established at Noida in 1988. On various occasions in the past, India faced with scarcity of coins and government has placed orders for foreign mints to fulfill the coin demand in the country though now, India has self-sufficient and excessive capacity to produce and supply enough indigenous coins from their four mints, while Noida mint regularly mints coins for other countries that need such services. Mint marks carried by coins minted in India: Calcutta / Kolkata Mint: Established in 1757; Mint marks: No mint mark Bombay / Mumbai Mint: Established in 1829; Mint marks:  Diamond Shape for Normal issues and UNC sets B - stands for Bombay (till 1995 on proof coins)  M - stands for Mumbai (aft...

Many new collectors often inquire about how to book coins from the India Government Mint. This post aims to guide beginners through the commemorative coin booking process. Once a commemorative theme is selected, the following broad steps usually follow: © Security Printing & Minting Corporation of India Ltd. Coin Release Ceremony: The release ceremony depends on various factors such as the date of significance, linked celebrations, and the availability of key dignitaries. At the ceremony, details like the issuing mint—typically Mumbai or Kolkata—are confirmed. Coins in Circulation: After the release ceremony, the lower denomination coins are generally put into circulation. This may take anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the mint’s capacity and production schedule for both commemorative and definitive coins. Once circulation begins, the RBI issues a press release detailing the coin design. However, one still cannot know in advance which mints will produce the coins u...