Coin collector preserves centuries of Indian history

Kalyan: In an era dominated by digital payments, Milind Kochrekar from Kalyan has built a collection of more than 2,000 to 3,000 rare coins spanning the 1st century to the 21st century.

Kochrekar developed an interest in coins, postage stamps, and antiques during childhood, which gradually grew into an extensive collection. Among the highlights is a replica of the gold ‘Hon’ coin associated with the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

His collection also features coins linked to rulers and dynasties including Ahilyabai Holkar, Yashwantrao Holkar and Sayajirao Gaekwad, along with silver coins from several historic Maratha centres such as Nashik, Chandor, Chandwad, Jhansi, Panhala and Gokak.

The collection extends beyond Maratha history, featuring coins from the Maurya, Kushan, Satavahana, Gupta, Chalukya, Chola, Mughal and Maratha dynasties. Coins from Dutch India, French India, Portuguese India, the East India Company and British India are also part of the collection.

Kochrekar has also preserved commemorative currency and 23 types of coins, earning recognition in the India Book of Records. His achievement was recorded on October 3, 2022, and was subsequently featured in the India Book of Records 2024.

Beyond coins, he collects vintage copper bicycles, horse-carriage licences, postage stamps, matchboxes and other antiques. For Kochrekar, the collection is more than a hobby. It is an effort to preserve history and help future generations understand the stories, cultures and societies reflected in old currency.