Indore hosts ‘Money Mela’ showcasing rare ancient Indian coins

Indore: The ‘Money Mela’, a unique exhibition of old and rare currency, is drawing history enthusiasts and collectors to Gandhi Hall in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The three-day fair, which opened on Friday, aims to educate visitors about India’s rich numismatic heritage while celebrating the country’s ancient monetary traditions.

One of the key attractions of the exhibition is a display of coins from India’s 16 Mahajanapadas — the ancient kingdoms that marked the beginning of coin circulation in the subcontinent. The fair provides a rare opportunity for visitors to witness currency that dates back centuries, offering insights into India’s historical evolution through metal and mint.

Highlighting the importance of the event, Chief Guest and researcher Sanjeev Kumar said:

"This fair is very important for our history because many of the stalls set up here showcase ancient coins and share knowledge about our historical heritage. Discussions about history take place openly, making it an educational platform as well as a cultural event. Collectors come here to exchange old coins and study them closely. They do this not for investment or financial gain, but also for research, learning, and preserving historical knowledge.."

Several participants from different states have set up stalls to trade rare coins and currency notes, attracting seasoned collectors and curious visitors alike.

Participant and coin collector Rahul Gupta spoke about the challenges of acquiring ancient coins:

"Ancient coins have largely disappeared over time. The few that remain are mostly with jewellers, and collectors have to acquire them from these limited sources. New coins of that era are not going to be made again, so if a thousand-year-old coin is available with a jeweller, that is what one has to purchase.

Some coins are purchased from auction houses, and some have been acquired from abroad"

Another participant, Surendra Ranka, emphasised his passion for antiques:

"We both buy and sell antique items; that is our profession. Our exhibitions are organised regularly. We are very passionate about antique objects. We currently have a good collection in stock, and we are always interested in purchasing more rare and valuable pieces."

For many visitors, the exhibition is more than just a marketplace; it is a journey into India’s past. Long-time enthusiasts expressed their excitement at witnessing rare artefacts up close.

Visitor Pari Jain shared her experience: "At the Money Fair, we have seen many extremely old types of coins, including some that we had never seen before. It feels wonderful to witness them. These coins, which were once used in ancient times, are helping us reconnect with and recall our rich past."

Another visitor, Shruti, who has attended the fair for years, said:"We have been participating in this for many years.

A wide variety of coins are available here. They are bought and sold by collectors and enthusiasts. The fair provides a great opportunity to learn about very old and rare coins, and to gain deeper knowledge about their history and significance."

The exhibition will continue at Gandhi Hall until February 15.