The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has addressed concerns about the validity of banknotes featuring a Star (*) symbol on the number panel. These Star series banknotes have been a subject of discussion on various social media platforms.
According to the RBI’s clarification, the Star symbol is incorporated into the number panel of a banknote when it is used as a replacement for defectively printed banknotes within a packet of 100 serially numbered banknotes.
The central bank further explained that a banknote with a Star symbol is entirely valid and holds the same value as any other legal banknote. The only difference is the addition of the Star symbol in the number panel, placed between the prefix and the serial number.
To provide some context, before August 2006, fresh banknotes issued by the RBI were serially numbered, each with a unique serial number and prefix consisting of numerals and letters. These banknotes were issued in packets containing 100 pieces.
The “Star series” numbering system was introduced by the RBI specifically for the replacement of defectively printed banknotes within a packet of 100 serially numbered banknotes. The Star series banknotes are indistinguishable from regular banknotes in all aspects, except for the additional character – a *(star) – in the number panel, placed between the prefix and the serial number.
In essence, these banknotes are perfectly valid legal tender and should not be a cause for concern among the public. They serve as replacements for defective banknotes and hold the same value and acceptance as any other banknote in circulation.
