Mahatma Gandhi One Rupee Commemorative Issue Republic of India 1 Rupee Nickel Metal Coin

Mahatma Gandhi One Rupee, Republic of India, Year of Issue: 1969 CE, Commemorative Issue: Centenary – Birth of Mahatma Gandhi, Denomination: 1 Rupee, Metal: Nickel, Weight: 10 grams, Diameter: 28 mm, Mints: Calcutta (Kolkata) & Bombay (Mumbai), Reference: KM# 77, Extra Fine, Collectible.

Obverse: Ashoka Lion Capital with denomination below; country name in Devanagari and Latin.

Reverse: Bust of Mahatma Gandhi facing left with dates “1869–1948”.

Issued in 1969 to commemorate the centenary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, this One Rupee coin represents one of the earliest circulating commemorative issues of the Republic of India. Struck in nickel, the coin honored the Father of the Nation, whose principles of non-violence and truth played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence. Unlike regular circulation coins, this special issue featured a portrait of Mahatma Gandhi on the reverse, making it distinctive and instantly recognizable. Produced at both the Calcutta (Kolkata) and Bombay (Mumbai) Mints, these coins entered general circulation and served as a lasting tribute to Gandhi’s enduring legacy. The issue marked the 100th anniversary of his birth and reflected the nation’s gratitude for his contribution to Indian society and world history. Today, the 1969 Gandhi Centenary Rupee remains one of the most popular commemorative coins of modern India and is highly sought after by collectors.

Coinage Note: This commemorative type was struck at the Calcutta (Kolkata) and Bombay (Mumbai) Mints. Bombay Mint pieces bear the  mint mark, while Calcutta Mint coins have no mint mark. It was among the first Indian commemorative coins released for circulation and remains a landmark issue in Republic of India numismatics.