To the intrepid Indian collector, rare, exclusive coins issued by the government are a much-sought after item, whether they are issued in the name of personalities like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, or to mark events such as the 150th anniversary of the India Post. A series of such coins, which embodies the Ashtamangal auspicious symbols, is likely to pique the attention of a different type of hobbyist—the design aficionado.

Bearing a swastika, a conch, and two golden fish, among other symbols, the coins are enveloped in packaging that gleams with gold foil and subtle grey hues. The intricate concentric circle designs, woven with Sanskrit lettering, are the labour of a boutique calligraphy studio tucked away in Colaba’s own Apollo Bandar.