Bailabel Type : non-bailable

Description

Section 230 IPC: "Coin" Defined

Text of Section 230 IPC:

"The word 'coin' includes any piece of metal, whether circular or otherwise, used as money, and shall also include any coin made of any metal or composition of metals which has been, by law or custom, used or is recognized as money."

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Detailed Explanation of Section 230 IPC:

Section 230 IPC provides a definition of the term "coin" in the context of Indian law. It explains what qualifies as a "coin" under the Indian Penal Code.

Key Elements of the Definition:

1. Piece of Metal:

   • A coin is typically a piece of metal, but it is not limited to being circular. The law acknowledges that coins could take other shapes, as long as they are made of metal and are used as money.

2. Used as Money:

   • The key criterion for something to be considered a "coin" is that it must be used as money. It must serve as an instrument of exchange and represent currency in a particular system.

3. Legal or Customary Recognition:

   • The term "coin" also includes any metal or composition of metals that has been recognized by law or custom as a form of money.
   • For example, a piece of metal might not be a coin in a general sense but could be treated as such if the government or local custom recognizes it as valid money.

4. Flexible Nature:

   • The definition of "coin" is broader than just a physical, circular object. It allows for various forms of currency made of metal, regardless of shape, as long as they meet the criteria of being used or recognized as money.

Examples:

• Modern Coins: Coins made of various metals like copper, nickel, or silver, stamped with a denomination and used for transactions in India.

• Historical Coins: Ancient or historical coins, which may have been used in past trade systems and are still recognized as valid for certain purposes under law.

• Other Metal Pieces: A piece of metal used as money in an informal system or recognized in a certain community as a means of exchange, such as tokens used in specific regions.

Punishment

Punishment:

• No Punishment: Section 230 IPC is a definitional section, meaning it does not provide any punishment. It merely explains what constitutes a "coin" in the legal context. Any punishment related to the use of counterfeit or forged coins would be covered under other sections of the IPC, such as Section 231 (Forgery of coin) or Section 234 (Making or selling counterfeit coin).