The Evolution of Currency Notes In India

Indian notes have evolved over the years. Both in terms of designs and sizes, Currency Notes In India can take you through a beautiful journey. From east India company notes to the latest 2000 rupees notes when you sit down and study various Indian notes that have been issued over the centuries, you will open yourself up to the rich history of India. Before the colonization of India, currency notes were not issued by kings and emperors in the medieval era. You will not find currency notes in India that were issued by the Mughals or the Marathas. After trade started flourishing in the 18^th century, India was slowly colonised by the East India Company and other European countries. For administrative purposes three different presidencies were formed – Bengal Presidency, Bombay Presidency and Madras Presidency. Indian notes were issued by each of these three presidencies. 

Apart from England, India was also under the Dutch, French and the Portuguese rule. Some really beautiful currency notes in India were issued under these colonial powers as well. Did you know that many uniface Indian notes were also issued back then? “Uniface notes” means that there was a design only on one side; the other side was basically left blank. 

Apart from the designs and sizes, another major aspect that has changed over the years is security features on currency notes in India. Counterfeiting has been prevalent since many years now. But with the advent of technology, forgeries have become easier as well. There is a constant need to increase security features on currency notes in India. The recent decision by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to demonetize 500 rupees and 1000 rupees Indian notes was not just to curb black money but also to tab counterfeiting activities that has been funding terrorist organizations as well. Form uniface colonial Indian notes to the latest violet coloured 2000 rupee note, currency notes in India have many exciting stories to narrate.