For decades, the ₹5 coin has been a reliable companion in every Indian’s wallet. Whether it was buying a cup of tea or paying the exact bus fare, this coin has played a major role in daily transactions. But now, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to stop minting a specific type of ₹5 coin, leaving many wondering—why discontinue such a widely used coin?
What pushed RBI to make this decision was not just policy—but a disturbing trend of misuse. Let’s unravel the story behind the silent exit of this iconic coin.
The Two Faces of the ₹5 Coin
Many Indians may not realize there are two main versions of the ₹5 coin:
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The Older, Thicker Version – Heavier and made from solid brass or similar metals.
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The Newer, Thinner Version – Lighter, often made from a mixed alloy of cheaper and less exploitable metals.
While both were valid tender, the thick ₹5 coin began to disappear quietly from daily circulation—and now we know why.
The Shocking Discovery: Turning Coins Into Razor Blades
Yes, you read that right. Criminals found a way to turn these thicker ₹5 coins into razor blades, making illegal profits in the process.
Here’s how the racket worked:
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A single thick ₹5 coin could produce up to 6 razor blades.
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These blades were being sold for ₹10–12 in total, giving smugglers double the value of the coin.
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The operation became profitable and widespread, eventually catching the attention of authorities.
It wasn’t just a small issue. It became a cross-border smuggling network.
The Bangladesh Connection
What made the situation worse was the discovery that this illegal activity wasn’t limited to India. Reports indicated that:
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Smugglers were collecting large quantities of ₹5 coins.
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These coins were being melted and processed across the border, particularly in Bangladesh.
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Razor blades produced from Indian coins were being sold in bulk, fueling an underground economy.
The problem escalated from minor theft to economic exploitation on an international level.
The Legal Rule That Forced RBI’s Hand
Indian currency is governed by a critical rule:
If the metal used in a coin becomes more valuable than the face value of the coin itself, it becomes necessary to withdraw that coin from circulation.
That’s exactly what happened here. The metal used in the thicker ₹5 coin was worth more than ₹5, which made it a target for melting and misuse.
RBI had no option but to:
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Stop the production of the thicker ₹5 coins.
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Shift to safer, thinner, and alloy-based coins.
This wasn’t a cosmetic change—it was a defensive measure to protect the Indian economy.
What Happens to the Existing Coins?
If you still have the old thick ₹5 coins, don’t panic—they remain legal tender. RBI has not banned the coin’s use. It has simply stopped minting the problematic version.
Gradually, these coins will:
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Vanish from everyday use as they wear out or are returned to banks.
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Be replaced by newer, tamper-proof ₹5 coins that are harder to exploit.
What About ₹30 and ₹50 Coins? The Rumor Mill Spins
After news of the ₹5 coin’s discontinuation broke, social media exploded with unverified news:
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Claims of ₹30 and ₹50 coins being introduced.
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Videos “confirming” new coin designs.
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Misleading information causing panic and confusion.
Let’s set the record straight:
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RBI has not officially announced any ₹30 or ₹50 coins.
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The images and videos being shared online are either fake or concept designs.
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RBI has issued a public advisory asking people to avoid believing or spreading such rumors.
RBI’s New ₹5 Coin: What’s Different?
To replace the discontinued version, RBI has introduced a revised ₹5 coin that:
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Is thinner and made of a multi-metal alloy.
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Has a refined design to reduce melting or tampering possibilities.
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Is designed to be cheaper to produce while staying secure.
These coins are gradually being circulated across the country and are now the standard ₹5 coin you’ll receive from banks and retailers.
Public Responsibility: What You Should Do
With this transition, there are a few things every Indian citizen can keep in mind:
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Accept Both Versions – Until they are completely withdrawn, both types of ₹5 coins remain valid.
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Don’t Hoard Coins – Holding onto old coins won’t increase their value; they are still worth ₹5.
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Stay Informed – Trust only RBI’s official announcements for news about Indian currency.
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Report Suspicious Activity – If you suspect coins are being tampered with, contact authorities.
Conclusion: The Silent Retirement of a Trusted Coin
The story of the ₹5 coin's discontinuation isn’t just about economics—it’s a fascinating glimpse into how everyday currency can become part of criminal schemes.
RBI’s swift action, backed by legal provisions, has helped prevent further exploitation. While the older, thicker coin may soon become a memory, the new ₹5 coin continues to serve its purpose—securely and efficiently.
As citizens, staying aware of such developments helps us protect our economy, combat misinformation, and remain financially responsible.
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