India plans to varnish 100-rupee notes on trial basis in 2019 - 2020

According to its annual report for 2018 - 2019, the Reserve Bank of India agenda for 2019 - 2020 includes plans to introduce varnished 100-rupee notes “on a field trial basis in order to increase the life of Indian banknotes.” Additionally, the bank “will develop a mechanism/device for aiding the visually impaired in identification of denomination of banknotes.”

India new sig/date (2019) 50-rupee note (B300c) confirmed

India_RBI_50_rupees_2019.00.00_B300c_P111_2FF_089700_+_f
India_RBI_50_rupees_2019.00.00_B300c_P111_2FF_089700_+_r
Like B300b, but new signature and new date (2019).

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new 20-rupee note (B299a) confirmed

India_RBI_20_rupees_2019.00.00_B299a_PNL_09A_747576_f
India_RBI_20_rupees_2019.00.00_B299a_PNL_09A_747576_r

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new 20-rupee note (B299) reported to be introduced soon

According to a press release dated 26 April 2019, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue a new 20-rupee note (B299).

India_RBI_20_rupees_2019.00.00_B299a_PNL_000_000000_f
India_RBI_20_rupees_2019.00.00_B299a_PNL_000_000000_r

Courtesy of Prince Silvesten (http://banknotecoinstamp.com), Dennis Zammit, Claudio Marana, César David Zuluaga Cárdenas,

India new sig/date (2019) 100-rupee note (B301b) confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupees_2019.00.00_B301b_PNL_9EC_090585_+_f
India_RBI_100_rupees_2019.00.00_B301b_PNL_9EC_090585_+_r
Like B301a, but new date (2019) and new signature (Shaktikanta Das).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2018) 200-rupee note (B302b) confirmed



Like B302a, but new date (2018). No inset letter.

Courtesy of Peter Mosselberger (http://www.banknote.ws).

India Reserve Bank governor replaced after resignation

According to a press release, Urjit R. Patel has stepped down as governor effective immediately, 10 December 2018, citing “personal reasons.” Patel has been replaced by Shri Shaktikanta Das as of 12 December 2018.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

India new 100-rupee note (B301) confirmed

According to a press release dated 19 July 2018, the Reserve Bank of India intends to introduce a new 100-rupee note (B301) "shortly."

India_RBI_100_rupees_2018.00.00_B301a_PNL_0AA_156888_fIndia_RBI_100_rupees_2018.00.00_B301a_PNL_0AA_156888_r

Courtesy of Antje Bird, Manish Vasan, Rahat Aziz Rana, Mohamed Ibrahim, Rahat Aziz Rana, and Igor Nosenko.

India new sig/date (2018) 1-rupee note confirmed

India_GOV_1_rupee_2018.00.00_B162d_P117_00A_216803_L_fIndia_GOV_1_rupee_2018.00.00_B162d_P117_00A_216803_L_r
Like P117, but new date (2018) repositioned on back, and new signatures. Inset letter L.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2018) 100-rupee note (B295e) confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupees_2018.00.00_B295e_P105_6BW_902367_L_fIndia_RBI_100_rupees_2018.00.00_B295e_P105_6BW_902367_L_r
Like B295d, but new date (2018). Inset letter L.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2018) 20-rupee note (B293d) confirmed

India_RBI_20_rupees_2018.00.00_B293d_PNL_76M_984786_L_f
India_RBI_20_rupees_2018.00.00_B293d_PNL_76M_984786_L_r
Like B293c, but new date (2018).

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2018) 50-rupee note (B300b) confirmed

India_RBI_50_rupees_2018.00.00_B300b_PNL_9CA_241888_fIndia_RBI_50_rupees_2018.00.00_B300b_PNL_9CA_241888_r
Like B300a, but new date (2018). No inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2018) 10-rupee note (B298b) confirmed

India_RBI_10_rupees_2018.00.00_B298b_PNL_81G_590766_f
India_RBI_10_rupees_2018.00.00_B298b_PNL_81G_590766_r
Like B298a, but new date (2018). No inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new 10-rupee note (B298) confirmed introduced 05.01.2018

India_RBI_10_rupees_2017.00.00_B298a_PNL_67C_492041_fIndia_RBI_10_rupees_2017.00.00_B298a_PNL_67C_492041_r

Courtesy of Aditya Kulkarni, Dmytry Nevmyvako, and Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2017) 2,000-rupee note (B305b) confirmed

India_RBI_2000_rupees_2017.00.00_B305b_PNL_6MS_518916_f
India_RBI_2000_rupees_2017.00.00_B305b_PNL_6MS_518916_r
B305b: Like B305a, but new date (2017). No inset letter.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk (Nogowczyk).


India new sig/date (2017) 1-rupee note confirmed

India_GOI_1_rupee_2017.00.00_P108_08A_461214_L_fIndia_GOI_1_rupee_2017.00.00_P108_08A_461214_L_r
Like P108, but new date (2017) and new signatures. Inset letter L.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

India new 50-rupee note (B300) confirmed

According to a press release dated 18 August 2017, the Reserve Bank of India has introduced a new 50-rupee note (B300) in the Mahatma Gandhi (New) series.

India_RBI_50_rupees_2017.00.00_B300a_PNL_1AN_218888_f
India_RBI_50_rupees_2017.00.00_B300a_PNL_1AN_218888_r

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new 200-rupee note (B302) confirmed

According to a press release dated 24 August 2017, the Reserve Bank of India introduced a new 200-rupee note (B302) on 25 August 2017.

India_RBI_200_rupees_2017.00.00_B302a_PNL_3AA_118209_fIndia_RBI_200_rupees_2017.00.00_B302a_PNL_3AA_118209_r

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim, Claudio Marana, Yaqoob AlShaer, and Richard Miranda.

India new sig/date (2017) 1-rupee note reported

According to a Ministry of Finance notification dated 25 May 2017, the Government of India will issue a 1-rupee note like the existing issue, but with new signature (Shri Shaktikanta Das), new date (2017), inset letter L, and novel serial number.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new signature 10-rupee note (B286j) confirmed

India_RBI_10_rupees_2016.00.00_B286j_P102_01F_034255_L_f
India_RBI_10_rupees_2016.00.00_B286j_P102_01F_034255_L_r
B286j: Like B286i, but new signature, novel serial number, and inset letter L. Previously assigned B286j dated 2017 has been renumbered as B286k.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new sig/date (2017) 10-rupee note (B286j) confirmed

India_RBI_10_rupees_2017.00.00_B286j_P102_00F_060279_L_fIndia_RBI_10_rupees_2017.00.00_B286j_P102_00F_060279_L_r
B286j: Like B286i, but new date (2017), new signature, and novel serial number. Inset L.

Courtesy of Simon Biddlestone.

India new sig/date (2017) 100-rupee note (B295c) confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupes_2017.00.00_B295c_PNL_0AB_025708_R_fIndia_RBI_100_rupes_2017.00.00_B295c_PNL_0AB_025708_R_r
B295c: Like B295b, but new date (2017) and new signature. Inset R.

Courtesy of Simon Biddlestone.

India new date (2017) 50-rupee note (B294c) confirmed

India_RBI_50_rupees_2017.00.00_B294c_PNL_7BR_934901_f
India_RBI_50_rupees_2017.00.00_B294c_PNL_7BR_934901_r
B294c: Like B294b, but new date (2017).

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new date (2017) 500-rupee note (B298b) confirmed

India_RBI_500_rupees_2017.00.00_B298b_PNL_7LM_671963_E_fIndia_RBI_500_rupees_2017.00.00_B298b_PNL_7LM_671963_E_r
Like B303a, but new date (2017). Letter: None, A, E, F, L, R, S..

Courtesy of Simon Biddlestone.

India new date (2017) 20-rupee note (B293c) confirmed

India_RBI_20_rupees_2017.00.00_B293c_PNL_25K_032959_R_fIndia_RBI_20_rupees_2017.00.00_B293c_PNL_25K_032959_R_r
B293c: Like B293b, but new date (2017). Prefix 25K. Inset letter R.

Courtesy of Simon Biddlestone.

India new 500-rupee note (B298) confirmed

India_RBI_500_rupees_2009.00.00_B298a_PNL_7CK_610787_f
India_RBI_500_rupees_2009.00.00_B298a_PNL_7CK_610787_r
B298 (PNL): 500 rupees (US$7.45)
Stone gray. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Swachh Bharat logo (Gandhi’s eyeglasses); language panel; Red Fort in Delhi. 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI and भारत (India). Watermark: Horizontal 500; vertical RBI; Mahatma Gandhi; vertical electrotype 500. Printer: (ISP). 150 x 63 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: None. Intro: 10.11.2016.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

India new signature 50-rupee note (B294b) confirmed

India_RBI_50_rupees_2016.00.00_B294b_PNL_9AD_799200_f
India_RBI_50_rupees_2016.00.00_B294b_PNL_9AD_799200_r
B294b: Like B294a, but new signature. No inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new date (2016) 1,000-rupee note (B297b) confirmed

India_RBI_1000_rupees_2016.00.00_B297b_PNL_1AC_229623_R_f
India_RBI_1000_rupees_2016.00.00_B297b_PNL_1AC_229623_R_r
B297b: Like B297a, but new date (2016) and inset letter R.

Courtesy of Ludek Vostal.

India new 1,000-rupee note reported

India_RBI_1000_rupees_2016.00.00_B300a_PNL_0AA_000000_f
Here is an image reportedly of the new Indian 1,000-rupee note. Some speculate that this is a modified image of the new 2,000-rupee note based upon the number of tactile lines at left and right front. Time will tell.

Courtesy of Shibu Paul.

India new 2,000-rupee note (B299) confirmed

India_RBI_2000_rupees_2014.00.00_B299a_PNL_5AC_907992_f
India_RBI_2000_rupees_2014.00.00_B299a_PNL_5AC_907992_r
B299 (PNL): 2,000 rupees (US$30)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Swachh Bharat logo (Gandhi’s eyeglasses); language panel; Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission space probe). 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI, 2000, भारत (India). Watermark: Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype vertical 2000. Printer: (ISP). 166 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: None, R. Intro: 10.11.2016.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim and Dinyar Madon.

India new 500- and 2,000-rupee notes (B298, B299) to be introduced 10.11.2016

In a surprise move, India demonetized all 500- and 1,000-rupee notes as of 9 November 2016, “to tackle counterfeiting Indian banknotes, to effectively nullify black money hoarded in cash, and curb funding of terrorism with fake notes.” The old notes can be deposited at any RBI branch with valid proof of identity. The first of the “Mahatma Gandhi (New)” series to be issued are 500- and 2,000-rupee notes.

India_RBI_500_rupees_2009.00.00_B298as_PNLs_0AA_000000_fIndia_RBI_500_rupees_2009.00.00_B298as_PNLs_0AA_000000_r
B298 (PNL): 500 rupees (US$7.45)
Stone gray. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Gandhi’s eyeglasses; language panel; Red Fort in Delhi. 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI. Watermark: Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype vertical 500. Printer: (ISP). 150 x 63 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: E. Intro: 10.11.2016.

India_RBI_2000_rupees_2014.00.00_B299as_PNLs_0AA_000000_fIndia_RBI_2000_rupees_2014.00.00_B299as_PNLs_0AA_000000_r
B299 (PNL): 2,000 rupees (US$30)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Swachh Bharat logo (Gandhi’s eyeglasses); language panel; Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission space probe). 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI, 2000, भारत (India). Watermark: Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype vertical 2000. Printer: (ISP). 166 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: None, R. Intro: 10.11.2016.

India new 2,000-rupee note reported for introduction soon

According to various news reports, but not yet verified by any press release or official announcement, the Reserve Bank of India plans to issue a 2,000-rupee note, double the face value of the current largest denomination (B297). The notes are already printed and awaiting introduction.

India_RBI_2000_rupees_2016.00.00_BNL_PNL

India new date (2016) 500-rupee note (B296b) confirmed

India_RBI_500_rupees_2016.00.00_B296b_PNL_0HW_322598_fIndia_RBI_500_rupees_2016.00.00_B296b_PNL_0HW_322598_r
B296b: Like B296a, but new date (2016). No inset letter.

Courtesy of Elazar Schachar.

India new 50-rupee note (B294) confirmed

According to a press release dated 23 September 2016, the Reserve Bank of India introduced a 50-rupee note like B288, but with novel serial numbers, offset printing instead of intaglio, lighter color on back, removal of rectangular intaglio mark at left center front, and removal of latent image 50 to right of Gandhi portrait. The note is dated 2016, bears the signature of Governor Rajan, and is without inset letter.

India_RBI_50_rupees_2016.00.00_B294a_PNL_5AA_043611_fIndia_RBI_50_rupees_2016.00.00_B294a_PNL_5AA_043611_r

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new 20-rupee note (B293) confirmed

According to a press release dated 15 September 2016, the Reserve Bank of India introduced a 20-rupee note like B287, but with novel serial numbers, offset printing instead of intaglio, lighter color on back, removal of rectangular intaglio mark at left center front, and removal of latent image 20 to right of Gandhi portrait. The note is dated 2016, bears the signature of Governor Patel, and has inset letter R.

According to a press release dated 23 September 2016, the same note will be issued with the signature of Governor Rajan and without an inset letter.

India_RBI_20_rupees_2016.00.00_B293b_PNL_09A_052688_R_f
India_RBI_20_rupees_2016.00.00_B293b_PNL_09A_052688_R_r

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new signature 20-rupee note (B287c2) confirmed

India_RBI_20_rupees_2014.00.00_B287c2_P103_43H_840901_E_f
India_RBI_20_rupees_2014.00.00_B287c2_P103_43H_840901_E_r
Like B287c1, but signature 20 (error), not signature 21. Inset letter E.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new signature 100-rupee note (B289e2) confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupees_2014.00.00_B289e_P105_9GV_024401_E_f
India_RBI_100_rupees_2014.00.00_B289e_P105_9GV_024401_E_r
Like B289e1, but signature 20 (error), not signature 21. Inset letter E.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India's Reserve Bank names new governor Patel

According to a BBC News article dated 21 August 2016, the Reserve Bank of India has named Urjit Patel to take over as governor from Raghuram G. Rajan when his term ends 4 September 2016. Expect new signature varieties to follow.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

India new sig/date (2016) 1-rupee note confirmed

India_GOI_1_rupee_2016.00.00_PNL_00F_*_230044_L_fIndia_GOI_1_rupee_2016.00.00_PNL_00F_*_230044_L_r
Like P108, but new signature (Ratan P. Wetal) and new date (2016).

Courtesy of Simon Biddlestone.

India Reserve Bank governor to resign 04.09.2016

According to a press release dated 18 June 2016, Raghuram G. Rajan, who has served as governor of the Reserve Bank of India since 4 September 2013, intends to resign when his term ends on 4 September 2016.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

India new date (2016) 100-rupee note (B289h) confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupees_2016.00.00_B289h_P105_7UU_055814_f
India_RBI_100_rupees_2016.00.00_B289h_P105_7UU_055814_r
B289h: Like B289g, but new date (2016). No inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new 10-rupee note (B286) with novel numbering reported

According to a press release dated 13 April 2016, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue 10-rupee banknotes in the Mahatma Gandhi Series-2005, with the inset letter L, bearing the signature of Dr. Raghuram G.Rajan, Governor, Reserve Bank of India, and the year of printing ‘2016‘ printed on the reverse of the banknote.

These notes are like the current 10-rupee notes (B286), except that the numerals in both the number panels will be so-called "novel" numbers, in ascending size from left to right.

India_RBI_10_rupees_2016.00.00_B286hs_P102s_00A_000000_L_f

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2016) 50-rupee note (B288g) confirmed

India_RBI_50_rupees_2016.00.00_B288g_P104_9BF_999701_E_f
India_RBI_50_rupees_2016.00.00_B288g_P104_9BF_999701_E_r
B288g: Like B288f, but new date (2016). Inset letter E.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India chapter of The Banknote Book is now available

India cover new
The India chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 69-page catalog covers notes issued by the Government of India from 1861 to present, and the Reserve Bank of India from 1938 to present. Revised 03.02.2019.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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India new date (2016) 20-rupee note inset letter R (B287e) confirmed

India_RBI_20_rupees_2016.00.00_B287e_P103_81U_060001_R_fIndia_RBI_20_rupees_2016.00.00_B287e_P103_81U_060001_R_r
B287e: Like B287d, but new date (2016). Inset letter R.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new date (2016) 100-rupee note inset letter R (B295b) confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupes_2016.00.00_B295b_PNLs_5BL_000099_R_fIndia_RBI_100_rupes_2016.00.00_B295b_PNLs_5BL_000099_R_r
B295b: Like B295a, but new date (2016). Inset letter R.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new date (2016) 10-rupee note inset letter U (B286g) confirmed

India_RBI_10_rupees_2016.00.00_B286g_P102_99M_999701_U_fIndia_RBI_10_rupees_2016.00.00_B286g_P102_99M_999701_U_r
B286g: Like B286f, but new date (2016). Inset letter U.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new date (2016) 10-rupee note inset letter B (B286g) confirmed

India_RBI_10_rupees_2016.00.00_B286g_P102_43W_411701_B_fIndia_RBI_10_rupees_2016.00.00_B286g_P102_43W_411701_B_r
B286g: Like B286f, but new date (2016). Inset letter B.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India admits error with new 1,000-rupee note without security thread

India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B297a_PNL_2AB_619909_f
The Reserve Bank of India has admitted that a batch of notes with prefix 5AG and 3AP and inset letter L were produced in error without the windowed security thread (illustrated in note above) and asked banks to return same for destruction.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new 100-rupee note confirmed introduced 22.01.2016

India_RBI_100_rupees_2015.00.00_B295a_PNL_9BF_008606_R_fIndia_RBI_100_rupees_2015.00.00_B295a_PNL_9BF_008606_R_r
According to a press release date 22 January 2016, the Reserve Bank of India has introduced a new 100-rupee note like the preceding issues, but with novel serial numbers, diagonal bleed lines at front left and right, and enlarged triangle identification mark at upper left front.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new 500- and 1,000-rupee notes confirmed

India_RBI_500_rupees_2015.00.00_B296a_PNL_1BD_887081_f
India_RBI_500_rupees_2015.00.00_B296a_PNL_1BD_887081_r

India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B297a_PNL_2AB_619909_f
India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B297a_PNL_2AB_619909_r
According to a press release dated 22 September 2015, the Reserve Bank of India issued new 500- and 1,000-rupee notes like P106 and P107, respectively, but with novel "ascending size" serial numbers, "angular bleed lines" at the edges, and bigger identification marks. The RBI very recently introduced these denominations with novel numbering, but has now added "two more features to aid visually impaired in easy identification of banknotes part from securing them against counterfeiting."

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim and Shibu Paul (Ebanknoteshop).

India new novel numbering 50-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_50_rupees_2015.00.00_B288f_P104_3AA_611701_R_fIndia_RBI_50_rupees_2015.00.00_B288f_P104_3AA_611701_R_r
According to a press release dated 23 September 2015, the Reserve Bank of India issued a 50-rupee note like P104, but with novel "ascending size" (i.e. novel) serial numbers.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim and Claudio Marana.

India new novel numbering 500-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_500_rupees_2015.00.00_B290h_P106_1AG_754093_E_fIndia_RBI_500_rupees_2015.00.00_B290h_P106_1AG_754093_E_r
Like P106, but with novel "ascending size" serial numbers.

Courtesy of Indiararecoins on eBay.

India new novel numbering 1,000-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B291f_P107_4AA_852129_L_fIndia_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B291f_P107_4AA_852129_L_r
Like P107, but with novel "ascending size" serial numbers.

Courtesy of Indiararecoins on eBay.

India new date (2015) 1,000-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_P107_8BU_018412_R_f
India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_P107_8BU_018412_R_r
1,000 rupees, 2015. Like P107, but new date. Inset letter R.

India new 100-rupee note with novel serial numbers confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupees_2015.00.00_P105_0AB_999988_R_fIndia_RBI_100_rupees_2015.00.00_P105_0AB_999988_R_r
According to a press release dated 25 June 2015, the Reserve Bank of India has introduced a 100-rupee note like P105, but with novel serial numbering wherein the size of each digit increases from left to right. "The new numbering pattern will be introduced in a phased manner in all other denominations," though no dates have been announced for the introduction of the other notes.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new 1-rupee note dated 2015 confirmed

India_GOI_1_rupee_2015.00.00_PNL_00A_015821_L_f
India_GOI_1_rupee_1985.00.00_P78Ab_19M_277919_r
1 rupee, 2015. Like P78A, but new colors, new date, and new signature. Inset letter L.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.


India new sig/date (2015) 500-rupee note confirmed

500 rupees, 2015. Like P106, but new signature and new date. No inset letter.

Courtesy of Jinesh Reins Joseph.

India new date (2015) 100-rupee note confirmed with inset letter L

100 rupees, 2015. Like P105, but new date. Inset letter L. Also confirmed with no inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new date (2015) 20-rupee note confirmed

20 rupees, 2014. Like P103, but new signature (Raghuram G. Rajan) and new date. Inset letter: None, R.

Courtesy of IndianPaperMoney.

India new date (2015) 50-rupee note confirmed

50 rupees, 2015. Like P104, but new date.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2015) 10-rupee note confirmed

10 rupees, 2015. Like P102, but new date. Inset letter T, N.

Courtesy of IndianPaperMoney.

India new 1-rupee banknote reported

According to a press release dated 13 February 2015, the Reserve Bank of India will soon introduce a new 1-rupee banknote on paper substrate measuring 97 x 63 mm.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India to resume printing 1-rupee notes in 2015

India_GOI_1_rupee_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL_00A_002797
According to an article in The Hindu BusinessLine dated 25 December 2014, in 2015 the government of India will resume printing 1-rupee banknotes after a 20-year hiatus. The new notes will carry the signature of the finance secretary, not the governor of the Reserve Bank of India, which appears on all other denominations. The new 1-rupee note will be pink and green.

Courtesy of Aidan Work and Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new sig/date (2014) 1,000-rupee note confirmed

1,000 rupes, 2014. Like P107, but new signature (Raghuram G. Rajan) and date.

Courtesy of Peter Mosselberger (Bank Note Museum).

India government legally permitted to print 1-rupee notes

According to an article in The Economic Times dated 7 September 2014, the Law Ministry has ruled that Coinage Act of 2011 gives the Government of India authorization to print 1-rupee banknotes, despite the objections of the Reserve Bank of India, which prints all other denominations.

India new sig/date (2014) 50- and 100-rupee notes confirmed

50 rupees, 2014. Like P104, but new signature (Raghuram G. Rajan) and new date. No inset letter.

100 rupees, 2014. Like P105, but new signature (Raghuram G. Rajan) and new date. No inset letter.

Courtesy of IndianPaperMoney.

India new date (2014) 10-rupee note with R and S insets confirmed

10 rupees, 2014. Like P102, but new date and R and S inset letters.

Anyone interested in buying one of these notes can contact the contributor by clicking the link below.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new sig/date (2013) 100-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupees_2013.00.00_P105_7AF_777777_sig
100 rupees, 2013. Like P105, but new date and new signature (Raghuram G. Rajan). No inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim (Indian Paper Money).

India new sig/date (2014) 20-rupee note confirmed

20 rupees, 2014. Like P103, but new date, new signature (Raghuram G. Ragan), and without inset letter.

FYI, the 20th edition of the SCWPM finally has assigned Pick numbers to the notes with rupee symbols which have been issued since 2011. Unfortunately, Krause has made a mess of it. A quick check of the listings shows the latest date is 2012 when in fact 2013 and 2014 notes have been confirmed. Also, P101 is assigned to a 5-rupee note dated 2011 with rupee symbol even though such a note does not exist, and there are duplicate listings for this denomination spread across P88A and P94A.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India delays introduction of 10-rupee polymer notes

According to an article on The Hindu BusinessLine dated 24 April 2014, the Reserve Bank of India has delayed the introduction of polymer-based 10-rupee notes due to the failure of the selected bidders in meeting technical specifications.

India new sig/date (2014) 10-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_10_rupees_2013.00.00_PNL_85B_958467_f
10 rupees, 2014. Like previous 10-rupee note with rupee symbol, but new date and new signature (Dr. Raghuram G. Rajan). Confirmed without inset letter and with A inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India extends exchange of pre-2005 notes to 2015

According to a press release dated 22 January 2014, the Reserve Bank of India announced that all banknotes issued prior to 2005 were to be withdrawn from circulation as of 1 April 2014. However, a new press release dated 3 March 2014 indicates that RBI has extended the date of exchange to 1 January 2015.

Courtesy of Jinesh Joseph and Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new sig/date (2014) 500-rupee note confirmed

The 500-rupee note has been confirmed dated 2014 both with the signature of the previous governor, Duvvuri Subbarao, as well as the current governor, Raghuram G. Rajan. The former is confirmed with inset letter E and the latter without inset letter.

The previous governor's signature has also been reported on a 1,000-rupee note. According to a
video on Moneycontrol.com, the "error" notes were printed at Dewas printing facility and are considered legal tender.

Courtesy of Aidan Work, Jinesh Joseph, and Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new sig/date (2013) 50- and 500-rupee notes confirmed

India_RBI_50_rupees_2013.00.00_PNL_8AA_499996_sig
50 rupees, 2013. Like unlisted note, but new date and new signature (Raghuram G. Rajan). No inset letter.

500 rupees, 2013. Like unlisted note, but new date and new signature (Raghuram G. Rajan). No inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India notes without dates to be withdrawn 01.04.2014

According to a press release dated 22 January 2014, the Reserve Bank of India has announced that all banknotes issued prior to 2005 are to be withdrawn from circulation as of 1 April 2014. The affected notes are easily identified by their lack of a printed date at lower center on back (up to Pick 94). The notes remain legal tender, but after 1 July 2014, "to exchange more than 10 pieces of 500- or 1,000-rupee notes, non-customers will have to furnish proof of identity and residence to the bank branch in which she/he wants to exchange the notes.

Courtesy of Jinesh Joseph.

India new date (2013) 10-, 50-, 100-, and 500-rupee notes reported

According to press releases, the Reserve Bank of India intends to introduce the following new notes:

10 rupees, 2013. With L inset letter. Confirmed.
10 rupees, 2013. With R inset letter. Confirmed.
50 rupees, 2013. Without inset letter.
100 rupees, 2013. Without inset letter.
500 rupees, 2013. Without inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


India new sig/date (2013) 10-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_10_rupees_2013.00.00_PNL_85B_958467_f
According to a press release dated 17 October 2013, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue a 10-rupee note with rupee symbol, without inset letter, dated 2013, with the signature of Governor Dr. Raghuram G. Rajan.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

French India chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The French India chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 6-page catalog covers notes issued by the Banque de l'Indochine, Pondichéry (Bank of Indo-China, Pondicherry) from 1875 to 1946. Revised 22 December 2015.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
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India new date (2013) 1,000-rupee note confirmed

1,000 rupees, 2013. Like 2011 and 2012 notes with rupee symbol, but new date.

Courtesy of Jinesh Joseph.

India new date (2013) 50-rupee note with inset L confirmed

50 rupees, 2013. Like 2012 notes with rupee symbol, but new date and inset letter L.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

India new date (2013) 500-rupee note confirmed

500 rupees, 2013. Like 2011 and 2012 notes with rupee symbol, but new date.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

India appoints new governor of Reserve Bank of India

According to a Reuters article, "The [Indian] government has appointed Raghuram Rajan, the chief economic adviser in the finance ministry, to be the next governor of the Reserve Bank of India for a three year term, a statement by the finance minister said on Tuesday.

Rajan will replace Duvvuri Subbarao, whose tenure ends on September 4 after five years.

Rajan joined the government last August, having previously been chief economist at the International Monetary Fund and a professor at the University of Chicago."

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

India new date (2013) 50-rupee note confirmed

50 rupees, 2013. Like unlisted preceding issue with rupee symbol, but new date and no inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2013) 20-rupee note with rupee symbol and inset letter R

20 rupees, 2013. Like P96, but with rupee symbol, new date, and inset letter R. Also confirmed as replacement note with asterisk in serial number.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India 10-rupee note with rupee symbol and M inset letter reported

The Reserve Bank of India is expected to issue 10-rupee (US$0.20) notes with the new rupee symbol, the inset letter M, bearing the signature of Governor D Subbarao, and the year 2013 on back.

Additional information and images are requested so that this report can be confirmed.


India new date (2013) 10-rupee note with inset letter M reported

According to a press release dated 21 March 2013, the Reserve Bank of India "will shortly issue" a 10-rupee note with rupee symbol and inset letter M dated 2013.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2013) 100-rupee note with and without inset letter R confirmed

100 rupees, 2013. Like other unlisted notes with rupee symbol, but new date and R inset letter as well as without inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India reportedly considering 10-rupee polymer note

According to an article in DailyBhaskar.com dated 13 March 2013, the minister of state for finance, Namo Narain Meena, has announced that the Reserve Bank of India will issue one billion 10-rupee notes printed on polymer on field trial basis in five cities— Bhubhaneswar, Jaipur, Kochi, Mysore, and Shimla—with varied geographical locations and climactic conditions. The move is designed to extend the lifespan of this denomination, as well as reduce counterfeiting.

No word yet on when the new notes will be issued. The bank has made similar statements over the past four years and nothing has come of it yet.

India new 20-rupee note with inset letter E confirmed

20 rupees, 2012. Like previously issued unlisted 20-rupee note with rupee symbol, but with E inset letter. Now confirmed with this sig/date without inset letter as well as with E and R inset letters.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2012) 100-rupee note with L inset letter reported

According to an official press release dated 11 December 2012, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue 100-rupee (US$1.85) banknotes with inset letter L in the Mahatma Gandhi Series-2005, bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor, Reserve Bank of India, and the year of printing 2012 printed on the reverse of the Bank note.

The design of these notes to be issued now is similar in all respects to the `100 Bank notes in Mahatma Gandhi Series- 2005, issued earlier.

All the Bank notes in the denomination of `100 issued by the Bank in the past will continue to be legal tender.

Courtesy of Phil Martin.

India to replace 10-rupee notes with coins

According to an article in The Economic Times dated 23 November 2012, the Reserve Bank of India plans to gradually replace all 10-rupee (US$0.20) banknotes with coins because the latter are more economical in the long run.

India new date (2012) 10-rupee note with inset letter A confirmed

According to a press release dated 2 November 2012, the Reserve Bank of India will soon issue a 10-rupee (US$0.20) note dated 2012 with rupee symbol and inset letter A. This note has been confirmed as issued.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2012) 100-rupee note with inset letter E reported

According to a press release dated 23 October 2012, the Reserve Bank of India will soon issue a 100-rupee (US$1.87) note dated 2012 with rupee symbol and inset letter E.

India 50-rupee note with inset letter R reported

According to a press release issued by the Reserve Bank of India dated 12 October 2012, a new 50-rupee (US$0.95) note dated 2012 with rupee symbol and inset letter R will be issued soon.

India new date (2012) 100-rupee note with inset letter G reported

According to a press release dated 20 September 2012, the Reserve Bank of India will soon issue a 100-rupee (US$1.87) note dated 2012 with rupee symbol and inset letter G.

India new date (2012) 100- and 500-rupee notes without rupee symbol confirmed

100 rupees (US$1.80), 2012. Like P98, but new date and inset letter L.

500 rupees (US$9), 2012. Like P99, but new date and inset letter E.

Curiously, these notes are without the rupee symbol.

Courtesy of Cluadio Marana.

India new date (2012) 1,000-rupee note with rupee symbol reported

According to an article on The Financial Express dated 28 August 2012, the Reserve Bank of India will soon introduce a 1,000-rupee (US$18) note signed by Subbarao, dated 2012, with the rupee symbol and an L inset letter.

India new date (2012) 10- and 50-rupee notes with rupee symbol reported

The Reserve Bank of India will soon issue 10- and 50-rupee (US$0.20 and 0.90, respective) notes dated 2012, bearing the rupee symbol, and with the inset letter L.

India to issue 10- and 50-rupee notes with rupee symbol and inset letter L

According to a press release dated 19 July 2012, the Reserve Bank of India will soon issue 10- and 50-rupee notes dated 2012 with the rupee symbol and inset letter L. All denominations have already been confirmed with the rupee symbol added; it's just the L insert that is new to these two denominations.

Courtesy of Phil Martin.

India to test 10-rupee polymer notes

According to an article in The Asian Age dated 21 July 2012, the government will conduct a field trial with one billion polymer 10-rupee banknotes to check the possibility of introducing polymer notes in India. The trials will be conducted in five cities—Mysore, Kochi, Shimla, Jaipur and Bhubaneshwar—selected on the basis of their varied geographical location and climatic conditions.

The tests are to be conducted to determine if polymer notes last longer, thereby reducing replacement and disposal costs.
In another effort to increase the lifespan of banknotes, banks are asked to do away with the practices of stapling fresh note packets and writing on the watermark areas.

India considering 10-rupee polymer note

According to an article in IndiaWest dated 9 July 2012, the Reserve Bank of India said it is working on launching polymer banknotes and will soon start a pilot project. "Counterfeiting of plastic notes is very difficult. So we are planning to launch some plastic money on pilot basis in 4-5 centers like Jaipur, Shimla and Bhubaneshwar. We are working on it," RBI Deputy Governor H.R. Khan told reporters. The bank has made similar statements over the past three years and nothing has come of it yet.

Courtesy of Phil Martin.

India asking for public input on replacing Gandhi on notes

There's an interesting article in The Times of India dated 17 June 2012, regarding the Reserve Bank of India seeking suggestions from the public for replacing the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi on RBI banknotes.

India new 500-rupee note with rupee symbol confirmed

India_RBI_500_R_2011.00.00_PNL_9AB_812041_fIndia_RBI_500_R_2011.00.00_PNL_9AB_812041_r
500 rupees (US$9.00), 2011. Like P99, but new date, new signature, and addition of rupee symbol to denomination. Without inset letter. Intro: 26.12.2011.

500 rupees (US$9.00), 2012. Like P99, but new date, new signature, and addition of rupee symbol to denomination. Inset letter R.

Courtesy of Dr. Manjunath P. Iyer and Thomas Augustsson.

India new date (2012) 100-rupee note with rupee symbol confirmed

India_RBI_100_R_2012.00.00_PNL_7FK_893101_sig
100 rupees (US$1.80), 2012. Like P98, but new date, new signature, and addition of rupee symbol to denomination. Confirmed without inset letter and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Hartmut Fraunhoffer (www.banknoten.de), and Claudio Marana.

India new 20-rupee note with rupee symbol confirmed

India_RBI_20_R_2012.00.00_PNL_15A_421550_f
India_RBI_20_R_2012.00.00_PNL_15A_421550_r
20 rupees (US$0.35), 2012. Like P96, but new date, new signature, and addition of rupee symbol to denomination. Confirmed without inset letter and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (www.banknoten.de).

India new date (2012) 10-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_10_R_2012.00.00_P95_05D_338502_P_f
10 rupees (US$0.20), 2012. Like P95, but new date and inset letter P. This note does not have the rupee symbol. Curiously, the 10-rupee note bearing the rupee symbol has previously been confirmed dated 2011.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Agostinho "Gus" Oliveira (gus26550@yahoo.com).

India new 50-rupee note with rupee symbol confirmed

India_RBI_50_R_2012.00.00_PNL_8AA_999900_fIndia_RBI_50_R_2012.00.00_PNL_8AA_999900_rIndia_RBI_50_R_2012.00.00_PNL_8AA_999900_sig
On 19 April 2012, the Reserve Bank of India issued new 50-rupee (US$0.95) notes with the rupee symbol, no inset letter, and the signature of Governor Subbarao.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new 20-rupee note reported

According to a press release dated 12 April 2012, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue new 20-rupee notes with the rupee symbol, no inset letter, and the signature of Governor Subbarao.

Additional information and images are requested so that this report can be confirmed.

India planning new 500- and 1,000-rupee notes within two years

According to an article in Outlook India dated 31 March 2012, within a year or two the Reserve Bank of India intends to issue new banknotes portraying the growth and development story of the country, says Bimal Julka, Director General, Directorate of Currency.

"It has been decided to add new features to currency notes. When anyone will look at a 500- or 1,000-rupee (US$9.70 and $19.40, respectively) note, it should also reflect India's growth and development.” The new notes will also have enhanced security features..

Courtesy of Richard Miranda.

India new date (2011) 500-rupee note with L inset letter confirmed


500 rupees (US$10.25), 2011. Like P99, but new date and inset letter L.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

India new 1,000-rupee note with rupee symbol confirmed


1,000 rupees (US$19), 2011. Like P100, but new date, new signature, and addition of rupee symbol to denomination.

Anyone interested in buying one of these notes can contact the contributor by clicking the link below. Be sure to say you saw it mentioned on Banknotenews.com.

Courtesy of Shibu Paul & Ashley Alexander (www.ebanknoteshop.com).

India new 100-rupee note with rupee symbol confirmed


100 rupees (US$1.90), 2011. Like P98, but new date, new signature, and addition of rupee symbol to denomination.

Courtesy of Shibu Paul & Ashley Alexander (www.ebanknoteshop.com).

India 10-rupee note with rupee symbol and R inset letter reported

The Reserve Bank of India is expected to issue 10-rupee (US$0.20) notes with the new rupee symbol, the inset letter R, bearing the signature of Governor D Subbarao, and the year 2011 on back.

India new 1,000-rupee note with rupee symbol reported

According to a press release dated 18 November 2011, the Reserve Bank of India plans to issue a new 1,000-rupee (US$19.13) note without inset letter, bearing the new rupee currency symbol.

Additional information and images are requested so that this report can be confirmed.

Courtesy of Anil Bohora.

India new date (2011) 50-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


50 rupees (US$1.02), 2011. Like P97, but new date, new signatures, and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

India new date (2011) 100-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


100 rupees (US$2.05), 2011. Like P98, but new date, new signatures, and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

India new 20-rupee 2011 note with F inset letter reported

According to an October 2011 press release, the Reserve Bank of India will soon introduce a 20-rupee (US$0.40), 2011 note with F inset letter and signed by Governor Subbarao.

Additional information and images are requested so that this report can be confirmed.

India new 10-rupee note with rupee symbol confirmed


According to a press release dated 23 September 2011, the Reserve Bank of India has issued (on 3 October 2011) a 10-rupee (US$0.20) note without inset letter, in the Mahatma Gandhi series, bearing the signature of Governor Subbarao, dated 2011, and incorporating the new symbol for the rupee currency.

This denomination has also been confirmed with R inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim and Thomas Augustsson.

India 20-rupee variety with F inset letter reported

According to a press release dated 2 September 2011, the Reserve Bank of India will soon issue a 20-rupee note with F inset letter and the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India to issue polymer 10-rupee notes

According to an article on MoneyControl dated 26 August 2011, the Reserve Bank of India will introduce 100 crore (1 billion) polymer 10-rupee (US$0.20) banknotes on a trial basis. India has been contemplating such a test for several years now. No word yet on exactly when the polymer notes will be issued.

Additional information and images are requested so that this report can be confirmed.

Courtesy of Anil Bohora.


India new date (2011) 10- and 100-rupee notes reported

The Reserve Bank of India will soon issue 10- and 100-rupee banknotes in the Mahatma Gandhi series with the signature of Governor Subbarao. The 10-rupee notes will have inset letter B. The 100-rupee notes will have inset letter L.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

India new 100-rupee variety reported

According to a press release dated 10 June 2011, the Reserve Bank of India will “shortly” issue a 100-rupee (US$2.25) note with L inset letter, 2011 date, and Subbarao’s signature.

Additional information and images are requested so that this report can be confirmed.

India new 10-rupee variety reported

According to a press release dated 10 June 2011, the Reserve Bank of India will “shortly” issue a 10-rupee (US$0.20) note with B inset letter and Subbarao’s signature.

Additional information and images are requested so that this report can be confirmed.

India to enhance security features of banknotes soon

According to a Financial Chronicle article dated 23 May 2011, the Reserve Bank of India will soon issue new banknotes of all denominations with enhanced security features and the new currency symbol for the rupee. Although the date of intro of the notes hasn’t been revealed, newly designed coins with the new symbol are expected in July.

India new date (2011) 20-rupee note without inset letter confirmed

20 rupees (US$0.45), 2011. Like P96, but new date and signature (Subba Rao).

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2011) 100-rupee note without inset letter confirmed


100 rupees (US$2), 2011. Like P98, but new date and no inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2011) 10-rupee note with A inset letter confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20), 2011. Like P95, but new date and A inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2011) 50-rupee note with L inset letter confirmed


50 rupees (US$1.10), 2011. Like P97, but new date, new signature, and L inset letter.

This particular note show above is a replacement, indicated by the star/asterisk in the serial number.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2011) 10-rupee note with N inset letter confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20), 2011. Like P95, but new date and N inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2010) 50-rupee note with L inset letter confirmed


50 rupees (US$1.10), 2010. Like P97, but new date and L inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

India new date (2010) 50-rupee note confirmed


50 rupees (US$1.10), 2010. Like Pick 97, but new date, new signature, and E inset letter.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

India new 5- and 10-rupee notes reported

According to press releases dated 24 December 2010, the Reserve Bank of India will soon issue new 5- and 10-rupee (US$0.10 and 0.20, respectively) banknotes with improved security features.

The 5-rupee note will have an R inset letter whereas the 10-rupee note will have an N insert letter. Both will bear the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, governor. The design of these notes is similar in all respects to the banknotes in the Mahatma Gandhi Series with additional / new security features. Existing notes will circulate in parallel.

Additional information and images are requested.

India new sig. 5-rupee note without inset letter reported

According to a press release dated 9 November 2010, the Reserve Bank of India will soon issue 5-rupee (US$0.10) banknotes without inset letter in the numbering panels in the Mahatma Gandhi Series with new/ improved security features bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor, Reserve Bank of India.

India new 10-rupee note with S inset letter reported

On 27 September 2010, the Reserve Bank of India announced that it would soon issued new 10-rupee (US$0.20) notes like the current Mahatma Gandhi series, but with “additional security features,” S inset letters, and the signature of RBI governor, D Subbarao.

Additional information and images are requested.

Origin of color of India's 20-rupee note explained


The International Business Times has an interesting article explaining the origin of the color scheme used on India’s 20-rupee (US$0.40) note, shown above (Pick 89A), as well as an examination of the history of banknotes in India.

India 2009 20- and 100-rupee notes without inset letters confirmed

20 rupees (US$0.40), 2009. Like P96, but new date and no inset letter.

100 rupees (US$2.15), 2009. Like P98, but new date and no inset letter.

Courtesy of Jim W.-C. Chen.

India's unique challenge of making money from cotton waste

Live Mint has posted an interesting article on banknote production in India.

India approves new symbol for rupee


On 15 July 2010, India’s Union Cabinet approved a symbol for the rupee which is a combination of the Roman “R” without the vertical stroke and the Devnagri letter “ra.” The symbol was designed by Bombay IIT postgraduate D Udaya Kumar. A finance ministry official said the government is not planning to print banknotes with the new symbol. Historians say that the first “rupee” was issued by Emperor Sher Shah Suri in the 15th century. One rupee was equivalent to 40 copper paisas then. The rupee is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word raupya, which means silver.

India new date (2010) 500-rupee note confirmed


500 rupees (US$10.70), 2010. Like Pick 99, but new date, new signatures, and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

India new date (2010) 20-rupee note confirmed


20 rupees (US$0.40), 2010. Like Pick 96, but new date, new signatures, and E inset letter.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

India 20-rupee note with R inset letter reported

The Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue a 20-rupee (US$0.45) banknote with R inset letter in both numbering panels in the Mahatma Gandhi Series – 2005 bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor. Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued now is similar in all respects to the banknotes in Mahatma Gandhi Series – 2005, with additional / new security features issued on 16 August 2006. All 20-rupee notes issued in the past will continue to be legal tender.

India new date (2009) 10-rupee note with L letter confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20), 2009. Like P95, but new date (2009), new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and L inset letter.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

India 20-rupee note without inset letter reported

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will soon introduce a 20-rupee (US$0.40) banknote without inset letter bearing the signature of Dr D Subbarao, Governor. Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued now is similar in all respects to the banknotes in Mahatma Gandhi Series - 2005, with additional/new security features issued on 16 August 2006. All 20-rupee notes issued by the RBI in the past will continue to be legal tender.
Additional information and images are requested.

India new date (2009) 1,000-rupee note with L inset letter confirmed


1,000 rupees (US$19.35), 2009. Like Pick 100, but new date and L inset letter.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk.

India new date (2009) 100-rupee note with F inset letter confirmed


100 rupees (US$2), 2009.
Like Pick 98, but new date (2008), new signature (D. Subbarao, Governor), and F inset letter.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

India new date (2008) 50-rupee note with E inset letter confirmed


50 rupees (US$0.95)
Like Pick 97, but new date (2008), new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor), and E inset letter.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

India replacing 1- and 2-rupee notes with coins

According to an article in The Economic Times dated 08.12.09, the Reserve Bank of India is replacing 1- and 2-rupee banknotes with coins due to the short life span and high costs of printing small-denomination notes. In a written reply to Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Finance Namo Narain Meena said, "The notes of these denominations have been coinised…The Reserve Bank has informed that in view of the short life span of the lower denominations notes of Re 1, Rs 2, and Rs 5 and the high cost involved in printing and processing of soiled notes of these denominations, the government has decided to discontinue the printing of lower denominations notes," Meena said.

India to issue 50-rupee note with L inset letter

The Reserve Bank of India is expected to issue a new 50-rupee (US$1.10) banknote with L inset letter in both numbering panels in the Mahatma Gandhi Series -2005 bearing the signature of D. Subbarao, governor.

Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued is similar in all respects to the banknotes in Mahatma Gandhi Series - 2005, with additional / new security features issued on 24 August 2005.


India new inset letter varieties confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20). 2008. Like Pick 95c, but M inset letter.


20 rupees (US$0.40). 2007. Like Pick 96b, but E inset letter.


100 rupees (US$2.15). 2008. Like Pick 98d, but S inset letter.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

India to issue new 500-rupee note with E inset letter

According to a 17 September 2009 press release, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will soon issue a 500-rupee (US$10.40) note with E inset letter and signature of D. Subbarao, governor.

Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued now is similar in all respects to the banknotes in Mahatma Gandhi Series - 2005, with additional/ new security features issued on 21 October 2005.

All banknotes in the denomination of Rs 500 in Mahatma Gandhi series issued by RBI from the year 2000 will continue to be legal tender.



India new date (2009) 50-rupee note without inset letter confirmed


50 rupees (US$1.00), 2009. Like P97, but new date (2009), and new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2009) 10-rupee note without inset letter confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20), 2009. Like P95, but new date (2009), and new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2009) 20-rupee note with E inset letter confirmed


20 rupees (US$0.40), 2009. Like P96, but new date (2009), new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and E inset letter.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2009) 1,000-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


1,000 rupees (US$20.55), 2009. Like P100, but new date (2009), new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

India new date (2009) 500-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


500 rupees (US$10.30), 2009. Like P99, but new date (2009), new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

India new date (2009) 500-rupee note without inset letter confirmed


500 rupees (US$9.65), 2009. Like P93, but new date, new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and no inset letter.

Courtesy of Dr. Manjunath P. Iyer.

India to issue 100-rupee note with F inset letter

The Reserve Bank of India will soon introduce a 100-rupee (US$2.05) note with F inset letter in both numbering panels in the Mahatma Gandhi Series.

Additional information and images requested.

India new date (2009) 5-rupee note confirmed


5 rupees (US$0.10), 2009. Like Pick 88A, but with date at lower center on back (previous issues were undated), new signatures, windowed security thread with demetalized text, and inset letter E.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

India considering polymer notes

According to a Business Standard article dated 3 June 2009, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is considering a pilot project to introduce polymer notes in an effort to increase the longevity of its banknotes, said H R Khan, executive director, RBI. The timing of the project has not yet been announced.

India to revise notes with new governor's signature

The Reserve Bank of India will soon introduce revised banknotes in the denominations of 5, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 rupees. The notes will be identical to the current Mahatma Gandhi series, but will bear the signature of the new bank governor, Dr. D. Subbarao. Notes of the current series will remain legal tender.


India new date (2009) 100-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a 100-rupee (US$2) note with R inset letter, dated 2009, with the signature of RBI governor D. Subbarao.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India to issue revised 1,000-rupee note without inset letter

According to an article in My Iris dated March 31, 2009, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will shortly issue 1,000-rupee (US$19.85) notes without an inset letter. The notes are part of the Mahatma Gandhi series of 2005. They will bear the signature of RBI governor D. Subbarao.

Additional information and images requested.

India new date (2008) 1,000-rupee note confirmed


1,000 rupees (US$19.35), 2008. Like P94, but new date.

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

India new date (2008) 50-rupee note confirmed


50 rupees (US$0.95)
Like Pick 97, but new date (2008) and new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor),

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

India new date (2008) 500-rupee note with L inset letter confirmed


500 rupees (US$9.65), 2008. Like P93, but new date, new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor), and L inset letter.

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

India new date/signature 10-rupee note confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20)
Like Pick 95, but new date (2008) and new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008).

Courtesy of Dr Manjunath P. Iyer.

India new date (2007) 100-rupee note with E inset letter confirmed


100 rupees (US$2.50), 2007. Like P91, but new date, new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor), and E inset letter.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2007) 500-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed

500 rupees (US$12.60), 2007. Like P93, but new date, new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor), and R inset letter.

Additional information and images requested.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India issues new date (2007) 500- and 1,000-rupee notes without inset letters


500 rupees (US$12.60), 2007. Like P93, but without inset letter and signature of Dr. Y. V. Reddy, governor.


1,000 rupees (US$25.20), 2007. Like P94, but without inset letter and signature of Dr. Y. V. Reddy, governor.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

India to issue 10-rupee note with S inset letter

According to an 11 December 2007, press release, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue Rs.10 denomination banknotes with inset letter "S" in both numbering panels in Mahatma Gandhi Series with additional/new security features bearing the signature of Dr. Y.V. Reddy, Governor. Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued now is similar in all respects to the banknotes issued earlier in Mahatma Gandhi Series with additional/new security features issued on 27 April 2006. All banknotes in the denomination of Rs.10 issued by the Bank in the past will continue to be legal tender.

No further details are available at this time. If anyone can provide information or images of the new note, please add a comment to this posting.

India to issue 10-rupee note with A inset letter

According to a November 5, 2007, press release, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue Rs.10 denomination banknotes with inset letter "A" in both numbering panels in Mahatma Gandhi Series with additional/new security features bearing the signature of Dr. Y.V. Reddy, Governor. Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued now is similar in all respects to the banknotes issued earlier in Mahatma Gandhi Series with additional/new security features issued on April 27, 2006. All banknotes in the denomination of Rs.10 issued by the Bank in the past will continue to be legal tender.

No further details are available at this time. If anyone can provide information or images of the new note, please add a comment to this posting.

India issues new date (2006) notes without inset letters

India has released Rs10, Rs20, Rs100, and Rs500 denominations dated 2006 at bottom center on back, and without an inset letter within the serial number in the upper right on front.

Anyone interested in buying this note can contact the contributor by clicking the link below. Be sure to say you saw it mentioned here on Banknotenews.com.

Courtesy of Chris Twining and Ömer Yalcinkaya.

India to issue revised 20-rupee note with R inset letter


Today the Reserve Bank of India announced that it will soon issue a 20 rupee (US$0.45) note with inset letter R within the serial number panels.

Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued now is similar in all respects to the banknotes issued earlier in Mahatma Gandhi Series with additional/new security features issued on August 17, 2006. All banknotes in the denomination of Rs20 issued by the RBI in the past will continue to be legal tender.

Courtesy of Frank van Tiel.

India new date (2005) 50-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


50 rupees (US$1.15), 2005. Like Pick 90, but new date, new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor), and with inset letter R.

Courtesy of Menelaos Stamatelos, Southeastern Numismatics.

India new date (2007) 100-rupee note without inset letter confirmed


100 rupees (US$2.25), 2007. Like Pick 91, but new date, new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor), and without inset letter.

Courtesy of Menelaos Stamatelos, Southeastern Numismatics.

India’s demand for high-denomination notes increases

India’s booming economy has pushed up demand for 500- and 1,000-rupee notes by approximately 20 and 50 percent, respectively, with the volume of almost all other denominations remaining steady. The cost of printing currency has more than doubled to Rs20 trillion during 2006-07, with the business split between Security Printing and Monitoring Corporation of India and Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran.

India new date (2018) 500-rupee note (B303c) confirmed

India_RBI_500_rupees_2018.00.00_B303c_P114_0SS_069726_A_+_f
India_RBI_500_rupees_2018.00.00_B303c_P114_0SS_069726_A_+_r
Like B303b, but new date (2018). Letter: A, B, F, L, M, S, T.

Courtesy of Simon Biddlestone.