India 2 Rupees 'Hand Symbol' series
Country of Origin: India (Republic of India)
Year of Issue: 2009
Denomination: 2 Rupees
Composition: Ferritic Stainless Steel
Brief Description
A circular stainless steel coin featuring a hand showing two fingers (index and middle) to denote the denomination of 2.
Historical Significance
This coin belongs to the 'Nritya Mudra' series, where denominations were depicted by hand gestures used in Indian classical dance. The series was designed to help the visually impaired recognize different denominations, though it face criticism for religious and political symbolism.
Estimated Value
$0.10 - $0.50 in circulated condition; $1 - $3 in Uncirculated (UNC) condition.
Care Instructions
Avoid cleaning with chemicals or abrasives. Store in a dry environment to prevent surface spots on the stainless steel. Use cotton gloves if handling high-grade specimens.
Mint Mark
Diamond (Mumbai), Star (Hyderabad), or Dot/None (Noida/Kolkata). Typical for this year are various Indian mints.
Mintage & Rarity
Common. This was a high-volume circulation strike produced at several different Indian mints.
Weight & Diameter
5.62 grams; 27 mm
Edge
Plain / Smooth
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated. The coin shows minimal wear with clear legends and visible luster.
Obverse (Front)
Features the lion capital of Ashoka in the center with the motto 'Satyameva Jayate' (Truth Alone Triumphs) below it. The word 'BHARAT' in Hindi and 'INDIA' in English are at the top, and the year '2009' is at the bottom.
Reverse (Back)
Features a hand gesture showing two fingers (index and middle fingers), representing the number 2. To the left of the hand is the numeral '2' above the word 'RUPEES' in Hindi and English.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Mint marks (some mints may be slightly more sought after), condition (UNC coins fetch a premium), and errors (die rotations or off-center strikes).
Similar Coins
Often confused with the 1 Rupee coin of the same series which shows a thumb pointing up, or the 50 Paise coin which shows a clenched fist.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Stainless steel composition is magnetic. Check for crispness in the hand gesture and consistency in the weight. Counterfeits of this specific low denomination are rare due to low scrap metal value.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Occasional die rotation errors or planchet defects can be found by collectors.
Created At: 2026-04-28T13:18:19.028294