Collecting old currency notes and coins has long been a cherished hobby for many. Recently, however, this interest has turned lucrative, with demand for rare coins and notes soaring. Online platforms, such as Coin Bazaar, have facilitated auctions where collectors can bid on historical currency items, sometimes fetching prices in the lakhs.
For instance, a one-rupee note can reportedly be auctioned for as much as seven lakh rupees. The reason for this high value is rooted in the historical significance of these notes. The Indian government ceased printing one-rupee notes 29 years ago, adding to their rarity and appeal among collectors.
One particularly prized item is a one-rupee note from the British colonial era, issued in 1935 and signed by then-Governor J W Kelly. This nearly 80-year-old currency has become a sought-after collector's item, with some buyers willing to pay a substantial amount due to its rarity and historical relevance.
While platforms like Coin Bazaar offer an accessible space for trading such collectibles, it is important to note that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) does not officially authorize the buying and selling of old currency notes and coins.