People of Madras
Ep. 04

​Published on April 30, 2022

S S Hobby Centre was started by Sanjeev Kumar and Sripal Rathod’s father about 20 years ago, after which the sons took over the business and currently run it. Their collection comes from various sources in the city, segregated in plastic covers that they lay out and check for authenticity. “Over the years we have gained experience in identifying real from fake coins and currency.”

The shop walls are stacked with boxes of coins of varying value and rarity as well as framed currency notes. “Often times scrap collectors have coins they have found at abandoned houses and they bring them to the shop. People throw out old boxes that have these coins, not knowing their value and worth most of the time.”

The currencies here are from across the world, though their largest collection is of Indian currency. As a result, their customers come from around Chennai and the country as well. Some come to show them old coins they have found to understand their value, if any. Then there are also the new hobbyists who bring in their finds to see what they might be worth or what sum they could fetch them.

The brothers have also put together a detailed catalogue of the coins they have at the store to show customers and buyers. “We are also part of an all India association of numismatists, to stay updated on the prices and values of old coins and currency, as well as new finds.”