New Delhi, September 7, 2026: Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi have seized 484 silver coins and one gold coin from two passengers arriving from Doha. Among the seized silver coins, 134 were reported by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to have apparent archaeological significance.
The seizure has raised attention because the coins are not only valuable as precious-metal items but may also have historical and archaeological importance.
Passengers Arriving From Doha Intercepted
According to officials, Air Customs officers intercepted two passengers after they arrived at IGI Airport from Doha on September 2, 2026.
A detailed examination of their baggage resulted in the recovery of 20.883 kilograms of gold and silver coins. The consignment had a combined tariff value of approximately ₹47.16 lakh, officials said.
The passengers allegedly attempted to clear the items without making the required declaration.
134 Silver Coins Have Apparent Archaeological Significance
The seized consignment consisted of:
- 484 silver coins
- 1 gold coin
- 20.883 kg total gold and silver coins
- ₹47.16 lakh approximate tariff value
- 134 silver coins reported to have apparent archaeological significance by the ASI
The ASI’s assessment makes the seizure particularly significant, as objects with potential archaeological or historical value can be subject to additional legal and heritage protections.
Authorities have not, however, publicly disclosed detailed information about the age, origin, dynasty, inscriptions or historical period of the 134 coins.
Goods Seized Under Customs Act
Customs officials seized the goods under Section 110 of the Customs Act, 1962. The provision allows authorities to seize goods when they have reason to believe that the items are liable to confiscation under the Customs Act.
The case remains under investigation, and authorities are expected to examine the origin and ownership of the coins along with the circumstances surrounding their attempted clearance.
Why the Archaeological Significance Matters
The presence of potentially historic coins adds another dimension to the case. Unlike ordinary bullion or collectible coins, artefacts with archaeological significance can provide information about India’s history, trade, economy and cultural heritage.
The ASI’s preliminary assessment indicates that 134 of the recovered silver coins may have such significance. Further examination would be required to establish their precise historical value and provenance.
Investigation Underway
Officials have not yet released details about whether the passengers intended to sell the coins, transport them to another destination or had acquired them legally before travelling to India.
Further investigation is underway to determine the origin, ownership, authenticity and archaeological value of the coins.
The seizure also highlights the role of airport customs authorities in preventing the unauthorised movement of precious metals and potentially significant cultural artefacts across India’s international borders.
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | IGI Airport, New Delhi |
| Passengers | 2 |
| Origin of flight | Doha |
| Date intercepted | September 2, 2026 |
| Silver coins seized | 484 |
| Gold coins seized | 1 |
| Coins with apparent archaeological significance | 134 silver coins |
| Total weight | 20.883 kg |
| Tariff value | ₹47.16 lakh |
| Agency assessing archaeological significance | ASI |
| Legal provision | Section 110, Customs Act, 1962 |
| Investigation | Ongoing |
The Delhi airport seizure is now under detailed investigation, with authorities likely to focus on the provenance and potential historical importance of the 134 silver coins.
