The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently addressed concerns and speculations about the authenticity and value of banknotes featuring a star (*) symbol on the number panel. In a clarification issued on Thursday, the RBI confirmed that these banknotes are genuine and hold the same value as any other legal tender.
The star (*) symbol on the banknotes serves as an identifier, indicating that the particular banknote is a replacement for defectively printed ones in a packet of 100 serially numbered banknotes. These replacement banknotes are introduced into circulation to maintain the overall quality and integrity of the currency supply.
According to the RBI statement, “A banknote with a Star () symbol is identical to any other legal banknote, except that in the number panel a Star () symbol is added between the prefix and the serial number. The Star (*) symbol is an identifier that it is a replaced / reprinted banknote.”
The RBI’s clarification comes as a response to misleading posts on social media claiming that banknotes with an asterisk or star (*) mark in the number panel are counterfeit. The RBI emphasized that these banknotes have been in circulation for a significant period and are entirely authentic.
It is worth noting that the introduction of the star (*) mark on banknotes dates back to December 2016, when the RBI first used it on new Rs 500 denomination banknotes. Furthermore, ‘star’ banknotes in denominations of Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 50, and Rs 100 have been in circulation since 2006, further reaffirming their legitimacy.
The RBI’s clarification aims to put to rest any concerns or doubts surrounding the ‘Star Series’ banknotes and assure the public that they hold the same value as any other legal tender. There is no compromise in quality or usability, and these banknotes are completely genuine and acceptable for all transactions.
