1964 ONE RUPEE & 5O PAISA COIN- JAWAHARLAL NEHRU COMMEMORATIVE COIN
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India, served the nation from 1947 to 1964 and played a pivotal role in shaping modern India’s political, economic, and scientific foundations. Following his demise on 27 May 1964, the Government of India decided to honor his legacy through a special commemorative coin issue—marking a historic milestone in Indian numismatics.
On 14 November 1964, which coincides with Jawaharlal Nehru’s birth anniversary (Children’s Day), India released its first-ever commemorative coins in his memory. These included a ₹1 (One Rupee) coin and a 50 Paise coin, making this issue especially significant for collectors and historians alike.
🪙 Historical & Numismatic Significance
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First commemorative coin issued by the Republic of India
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Released to honor a national leader rather than a theme or event
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Marks the beginning of India’s commemorative coin program
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Issued shortly after Nehru’s death, reflecting national respect and mourning
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Distributed for circulation, making them widely accessible to the public
This issue set a precedent for future commemorative coins dedicated to leaders, social themes, and historic events.
📌 ₹1 Jawaharlal Nehru Commemorative Coin – 1964
Key Specifications (General):
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Country: India
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Year of Issue: 1964
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Denomination: ₹1 (One Rupee)
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Metal: Copper-Nickel (Cu-Ni)
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Shape: Round
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Obverse: Lion Capital of Ashoka with “भारत • INDIA”
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Reverse: Portrait of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru with commemorative legend
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Edge: Reeded / Security edge (varies by variety)
Numismatic Importance:
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First Indian coin to feature a portrait of a post-independence leader
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Widely collected due to its “first commemorative” status
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Available in multiple mint varieties, increasing collector interest
📌 50 Paise Jawaharlal Nehru Commemorative Coin – 1964
Alongside the ₹1 coin, a 50 Paise commemorative coin was also released, bearing the same theme and portrait.
Highlights:
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Issued in Copper-Nickel
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Smaller denomination but equally significant
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Circulated extensively, making UNC examples scarcer today
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Popular among collectors completing paired sets (₹1 + 50 paise)
🏛️ Design Theme & Symbolism
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Obverse: The Lion Capital of Ashoka, symbolizing sovereignty and the Republic of India
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Reverse: A dignified portrait of Jawaharlal Nehru, representing leadership, vision, and democratic ideals
The choice of 14 November for release reinforced Nehru’s enduring association with children, education, and nation-building.
💰 Collector Value & Market Interest (Indicative)
While values vary based on condition, mint mark, and demand, these coins remain among the most collected Indian commemoratives.
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₹1 Nehru Coin (1964):
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Circulated: Moderate value RS 80- 160
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Uncirculated (UNC): High demand, premium prices RS 200-250
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50 Paise Nehru Coin (1964):
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Circulated: Common RS. 40-60
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UNC / Set form: Increasing collector value RS. 80-120
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Coins preserved in original luster or mint sets command significantly higher prices.
⭐ Why These Coins Are Important for Numismatists
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Foundation of Indian commemorative coin history
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Strong historical and emotional appeal
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Widely studied in Indian numismatic literature
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Essential for any Indian coin collection
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Frequently asked topic in numismatics exams and research





