Beyond his duties at the Tirupati West Police Station, Head Constable Thimmapuram Suresh Reddy harbors a remarkable secret: he is a dedicated numismatist with an astounding collection of rare coins. What might seem like a simple hobby to an outsider is, in fact, the culmination of years of diligent effort and passionate pursuit, resulting in a trove that predates India’s independence and extends even further back in time.
Recently, on Gandhi Jayanti (October 2, 2025), Mr. Reddy proudly unveiled his unique collection at an exhibition held in Tirupati. Visitors marveled at coins featuring Mahatma Gandhi, some dating back to 1969, alongside a fascinating display of postal stamps, first-day covers, and special commemorative issues released by the Department of Posts.
Among the highlights, Mr. Reddy noted, is a significant ₹5 coin issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). Each piece in his collection tells a story, reflecting historical milestones and the artistry of currency.
A true advocate for historical preservation, Mr. Reddy frequently organizes such exhibitions, hoping to inspire the younger generation, particularly school students, to discover the joy and educational value in collecting old stamps and coins. He believes these hobbies offer a tangible connection to the past.
His impressive holdings also include a stunning pure silver coin, boasting a face value of ₹10 and weighing a substantial 16 grams. Its worth, he explains, was originally determined by the prevailing market value of silver during its era of circulation.
Other notable pieces in his meticulously curated collection feature a 20 paise bronze coin, a 50 paise nickel coin, and a ₹1 nickel coin from 1969. Also present is a 50 paise coin issued in 1997, marking fifty years of India’s independence, and a ₹5 coin depicting Mahatma Gandhi, released in 2005 to honor the 75th anniversary of the historic Salt Satyagraha.