Dr. Rezwan Razack of Prestige Group Brings Global Honour to India, Wins Prestigious International Award for Hyderabad Currency Book
Dated 20th June 2026
News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid
Editor in Chief
Bengaluru | In a proud moment for India and the field of numismatics, Dr. Rezwan Razack, Co-Founder of Prestige Group and founder of the Museum of Indian Paper Money, has been awarded the prestigious First Prize – Book of the Year by the International Bank Note Society (IBNS) for his acclaimed publication, Paper Money of the Princely State of Hyderabad.
The award was announced as part of the highly regarded 2025 IBNS Book & Literary Awards and was published in the International Bank Note Society Journal. Dr. Razack’s book secured the top position among entries from across the world, surpassing several notable publications from Europe, the Middle East and the Americas.
Considered the most comprehensive work ever produced on the currency of the erstwhile Hyderabad State, the book is the result of decades of dedicated research and access to rare archival records. It presents the complete history, design evolution, varieties, prefixes, specimen notes and printing details of Hyderabad’s paper money, besides showcasing several rare notes that have never before appeared together in a single reference volume.
A detailed review of the publication has also been featured in the latest edition of the IBNS Journal, reflecting the international appreciation received by the work from the global numismatic community.
Speaking to Dr. B. R. Abdul Wajid, Editor-in-Chief, The Deccan Front, on receiving the honour, Dr. Rezwan Razack said, “This award is not merely a personal achievement; it is recognition of India’s rich monetary heritage and the fascinating history of the Princely State of Hyderabad. I am deeply honoured that the International Bank Note Society has recognised this work, which was truly a labour of love spanning many years of research.”
Dr. Rezwan Razack is internationally recognised as one of the foremost authorities on Indian paper money and is the founder of the Museum of Indian Paper Money in Bengaluru. He is also the first Indian to be inducted into the IBNS Hall of Fame, a distinction that has brought global recognition to his contributions in the field of numismatic research.
The latest honour further strengthens India’s position in the international numismatic community and underlines the growing global interest in preserving and studying South Asia’s rich monetary history. Dr. Razack’s achievement is a matter of pride for the nation and an inspiration for researchers and collectors alike.
File Picture : During the book launch “Paper Money of The Princely State of Hyderabad” @ Hotel Conrad in Bengaluru.
From the Desk of the Editor in Chief
“Dr. Rezwan Razack has not only earned several international honours but has also brought immense glory to India through his pioneering work in the field of numismatics. His lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting the nation’s monetary heritage deserves the highest appreciation and recognition. Through his extraordinary achievements and unwavering commitment, he has enhanced India’s stature in the global numismatic community and has rendered invaluable service in safeguarding an important chapter of the country’s rich history.” ~ Dr. B. R. Abdul Wajid
