India Issues ₹800 and ₹900 Commemorative Coins
India has made numismatic history with the world’s first 800- and 900-rupee commemorative coins, honoring Lord Parshvanath’s 2,900th birth and 2,800th Nirvana anniversaries. The new series highlights the life and death of a Jain Tirthankara, making these silver coins a significant addition for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
Since 1964, India has issued commemorative coins to mark various significant events. The latest series India has introduced is set to leave a mark on the global stage, as it is the world's first 800- and 900-rupee commemorative coins.
In December 2024, the Government of India issued these commemorative coins to mark the 2,900th birth anniversary (Janm kalyank) and the 2,800th death anniversary (Nirvana Kalyanak) of Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankara (savior) of Jainism.
According to businessman Lalit Nahata, who played a pivotal role in the release of these coins, the coin worth ₹900 has been issued to commemorate the 2,900th birth anniversary, and the ₹800 coin has been released to mark the 2,800th Nirvana anniversary. The coins feature inscriptions of "Janm Kalyanak" for his birth and "Nirvana Kalyanak" for his death. Each coin bears a distinct image of Lord Parshvanath that highlights different aspects of his life and teachings.
Notably, under the Indian Coinage Act of 2011, the maximum denomination allowed for commemorative coins is ₹1,000. As a result, coins marking the exact 2,900 and 2,800 years could not be issued. Therefore, 800- and 900-rupee denominations were chosen as the closest alternatives.
These two coins are made of 40 grams of pure silver and were minted at the Mumbai Mint, an official government facility. The booking price for both coins in proof condition is ₹6,900, around $70. The uniqueness of the 800- and 900-rupee denominations has made them highly sought after by collectors of commemorative coins in India and around the globe.
As with any piece of history, these coins are more than just currency—they are tangible reminders of India's rich cultural and religious heritage.
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