India’s Ministry of Finance has released a special ₹100 commemorative coin on October 1, 2025, to mark the 100th anniversary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The coin was unveiled at a ceremony in New Delhi by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside a special postal stamp issued to celebrate the milestone.
Key Highlights
- Event: Released on October 1, 2025, at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, during Vijayadashami celebrations.
- Design & Features:
- Metal: Pure silver
- Weight: 40 grams
- Diameter: 44 mm, with 200 serrations
- Obverse: India’s national emblem with the denomination ₹100
- Reverse: Depiction of Bharat Mata seated on a lion in Varada Mudra, flanked by three swayamsevaks — the first-ever depiction of Bharat Mata on Indian currency.
- Minting Authority: Government Mint, Kolkata, under the Coinage Act, 2011.
Significance
The issuance coincides with the centenary of the RSS, founded on Vijayadashami in 1925. The design reflects the organisation’s ethos of national service, discipline, and cultural heritage.
Prime Minister Modi said:
“This ₹100 coin carries the first-ever image of Bharat Mata on independent India’s currency, reflecting our nation-first spirit.”
Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat called it “a tribute to swayamsevaks whose selfless service has strengthened India’s fabric.”
Reactions
- Economists: While the coin has no impact on regular monetary circulation, it is expected to boost numismatic tourism and the collectors’ market.
- Cultural Organisations: Welcomed the introduction of Bharat Mata, calling it a landmark in India’s cultural representation.
- Opposition Voices: Criticised the move as an ideological projection, urging the government to balance commemorations across India’s diverse centenaries.
Broader Impact
- The release strengthens national pride while providing collectors with a historic piece.
- As a non-circulating issue, the coin will mainly be available in proof sets and limited editions, expected to sell out quickly.
- On the global stage, it highlights India’s soft power narrative, aligning cultural diplomacy with upcoming events like the G20 summit.
FAQs
Q1. When was the ₹100 RSS centenary coin released?
The coin was released on October 1, 2025, at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, during Vijayadashami celebrations.
Q2. Who launched the new ₹100 commemorative coin?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the coin, along with an accompanying postal stamp.
Q3. What is unique about this coin?
It is the first-ever Indian coin to feature Bharat Mata, shown seated on a lion in Varada Mudra with swayamsevaks.
Q4. What are the specifications of the ₹100 commemorative coin?
- Metal: Pure silver
- Weight: 40 g
- Diameter: 44 mm
- Serrations: 200
- Obverse: National emblem with denomination
- Reverse: Bharat Mata and swayamsevaks
Q5. Can the ₹100 RSS coin be used in daily transactions?
No, it is a non-circulating commemorative coin, primarily meant for collectors and numismatists.
Q6. Who produced the coin?
The coin was minted by the Government Mint, Kolkata, under the Coinage Act, 2011.
Q7. Will the coin be available for the public?
Yes, but only in limited proof sets and special editions for collectors.
Q8. Why was October 1, 2025, chosen for release?
The date coincided with Vijayadashami, marking the 100th foundation day of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
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