By Sitaram Mewati
During routine duty on 10.02.2026, officers of the Airport Commissionerate, Mumbai Customs Zone–III detected a unique modus operandi involving the smuggling of antique coins from London into India. The officers intercepted one passenger who had arrived from London by Virgin Atlantic Airlines Flight No. VS-354 dated 09.02.2026. Upon examination, antique gold and silver coins of significant historical importance were recovered and seized under the provisions of the Customs Act.
The seized coins include a Gold Coin weighing 12.37 grams of the East India Company, Bengal Presidency, Gold Mohur, Murshidabad Mint, issued in the name of Shah Alam II, AH 1202/RY 19; a Gold Coin weighing 8.00 grams of the Ancient Kushan Empire, Huvishka, Gold Dinar; and a Silver Coin weighing 11.44 grams of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, Silver Rupee featuring the Zodiac Sign Cancer, Ahmadabad Mint.
The seizure once again highlights the vigilance of Customs officers in curbing the illegal import of antiquities and heritage artifacts into the country. Further investigation is in progress to ascertain the source, intended recipient, and valuation of the seized coins.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
