Dr Rezwan Razack of Prestige Group Launches Book on ‘Paper Money of The Princely State of Hyderabad’ in Bengaluru

Dated 1st February 2026

News By Dr. B. R. Abdul Wajid

Editor in Chief

Bengaluru | Prestige Group’s Co-Founder & Indian Numismatist Dr Rezwan Razack and Founder of Rezwan Razack’s Museum of Indian Paper Money, launched his new book titled “Paper Money of the Princely State of Hyderabad” on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Hotel Conrad, Bengaluru. The book launch marked a significant milestone in the field of Indian and global numismatics.

The book was formally released by the Chief Guest, Dr D Subba Rao, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. The programme was presided over by Mr Irfan Razack, Chairman and Managing Director of the Prestige Group. The event witnessed the presence of several eminent personalities, scholars, collectors and well-wishers.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Rezwan Razack described the book as one of the most comprehensive and authoritative studies on the paper money issued by the Princely State of Hyderabad. The book focuses on the Osmania Sicca Rupees, a unique currency issued by the Nizam’s government, which enjoyed the rare distinction of being recognised alongside British Indian currency.

Dr Rezwan Razack’s book documents the complete history of Hyderabad’s paper currency from 1917 to April 1, 1955, when it ceased to be legal tender. The book also traces Hyderabad’s journey from a powerful Princely State to its integration into the Indian Union.

The book provides detailed insights into various denominations such as ₹1, ₹5, ₹10, ₹100 and ₹1,000, and explains the artistic and aesthetic elements of the notes. Special emphasis is laid on the designs featuring the Charminar, elegant calligraphy and symbols representing the sovereignty of the Nizam.

A significant part of the research highlights the printing history of the notes, starting from their initial production by Waterlow & Sons in London to their later printing at the Government of India Security Press, Nashik, from 1938 onwards.

One of the most interesting chapters in the book narrates the story of the 1922 shipwreck of SS Egypt in the Mediterranean Sea, which was carrying a consignment of Hyderabad currency notes. These rare “sea-salvaged” notes are today among the most sought-after collectibles in the world of numismatics.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Rezwan Razack said that the book is not merely meant for collectors but is a serious effort towards historical preservation, documenting an important yet lesser-known chapter of India’s monetary history.

The evening ended on a memorable note, with guests congratulating Dr Rezwan Razack for his extensive research and commitment to preserving India’s paper money history. The book was widely praised as a landmark work that will benefit researchers, collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

Dr B R Abdul Wajid, Editor in Chief, congratulates renowned numismatist Dr Rezwan Razack during the event at Hotel Conrad in Bengaluru on the successful launch of his book “Paper Money of the Princely State of Hyderabad.” The publication is a remarkable contribution to India’s monetary history and reflects Dr Razack’s deep research and lifelong dedication to preserving the country’s rich numismatic heritage.