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Representation of Money in Maths: Notes, Coins, and Numbers

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How is Money Represented Visually and Numerically?

The concept of Representation Of Money is a foundational topic in both mathematics and daily life. Understanding how money is visually, numerically, and symbolically represented is essential for school exams, competitive tests, and practical situations like shopping or budgeting. Mastering this topic helps students make sense of real-world numerical problems with ease.


Understanding the Representation Of Money

The representation of money refers to the different ways in which money is shown, counted, and used in mathematics and everyday transactions. This includes physical forms like coins and notes, numerical forms using numbers and decimals, and symbols such as ₹ (Rupee), $ (Dollar), or £ (Pound). Recognizing these forms is important for calculation, identification, and comparison of currency values.


Money is represented in two main ways:

  • Physical representation: Coins and notes of different values, colors, sizes, and shapes.
  • Numerical/Mathematical representation: Writing amounts using digits, decimal points, and currency symbols (for example, ₹45.75 or Rs. 45.75).

At Vedantu, we simplify concepts like the physical and visual representation of money, helping students identify denominations and understand calculations confidently.


Forms and Symbols of Money

Money takes various forms, each with its own way of being represented:

Form Example How It’s Represented
Coins ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10 coins
1¢, 5¢, 10¢ (US)
By value engraved on the coin, color, size, and shape
Notes ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, ₹2000
$1, $2, $5, $10 (US)
Printed number, color, unique features
Numbers (Digits & Decimals) ₹237.50
Rs. 100.25
Using digits and decimal points to show rupees and paise (or dollars and cents)
Words “Fifty rupees”
“One hundred and twenty-five rupees and fifty paise”
Amount spelled out in English or another language
Symbols ₹, Rs., $, £, ¥ Currency symbols used before or after the amount

Visual Representation: Notes, Coins and Their Denominations

Visual features play an important role in the visual representation of money. Each denomination of currency note or coin has a unique color, size, and image, making them easy to identify.

  • ₹1 Coin – Smallest, usually silver or steel color.
  • ₹5 Coin – Larger, bimetallic or silver.
  • ₹20 Note – Yellow/brown color, medium size.
  • ₹100 Note – Purple, larger size compared to ₹10 or ₹20.

You can refer to the Coins and Currency Notes – More Details page for more images and exact descriptions of Indian money.


Numerical Representation and Conversion

In mathematics and daily life, money is usually represented numerically using numbers and decimal notation. In India, 1 rupee is equal to 100 paise.

Representation Example Explanation
Numbers Only ₹38.75 38 rupees and 75 paise (38 x 1 rupee + 75 paise)
Words “Thirty-eight rupees seventy-five paise” Same amount written in words
Paise Only 3875 paise ₹38.75 = 38 rupees x 100 + 75 = 3875 paise

Steps for Rupees–Paise Conversion

  • To convert rupees to paise: Multiply by 100.
    (E.g., ₹5 = 5 × 100 = 500 paise)
  • To convert paise to rupees: Divide by 100.
    (E.g., 250 paise = 250 ÷ 100 = ₹2.50)

Learn more with conversion examples on Conversion of Units.


Worked Examples

Let’s practice representing and converting money:

  1. Write ₹17 rupees 35 paise in numbers.
    Step 1: Write rupees and paise side by side with a decimal.
    Step 2: ₹17 rupees 35 paise = ₹17.35
  2. Convert ₹8.50 to paise.
    Step 1: Multiply rupees by 100: 8 × 100 = 800
    Step 2: Add 50 paise: 800 + 50 = 850 paise
  3. Express 425 paise in rupees.
    Step 1: Divide by 100: 425 ÷ 100 = ₹4.25

See more decimal problems on Money as Fractions and Decimals.


Practice Problems

  • Write Rs. 31 and 60 paise in numerical form.
  • Convert 7 rupees 85 paise into paise.
  • Write 320 paise as rupees and paise.
  • How do you represent Rs. 56.25 in words?
  • If you have two ₹10 notes and three ₹5 coins, what is your total in rupees?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Confusing rupees with paise and writing amounts incorrectly (e.g., writing 8.50 as 850 rupees instead of ₹8.50).
  • Missing or misplacing the decimal point when writing money (e.g., Rs12.5 for Rs. 12.05).
  • Forgetting that 1 rupee = 100 paise in conversions.
  • Ignoring currency symbols (such as ₹ or Rs.) when writing money values.
  • Mixing up coins and notes by color or size alone—always check the value printed.

Real-World Applications

The representation of money is used everywhere—shopping, banking, solving maths word problems, budgeting, and online payments. Identifying denominations helps students count money accurately when buying chocolates or groceries. Financial transactions in banks, mobile wallets, and e-commerce all rely on clear representation of money values using both numbers and symbols.

For practical money maths exercises, try worksheets at Money Questions for Class 2 or explore real-life decimals at Decimals in Daily Life.


To sum up, a clear understanding of the representation of money—in coins, notes, numbers, decimals, and symbols—is vital for success in mathematics and daily transactions. At Vedantu, we make handling and solving money problems enjoyable and easy for students, ensuring strong skills for exams and everyday life.


FAQs on Representation of Money in Maths: Notes, Coins, and Numbers

1. How is money represented in maths?

In mathematics, money is represented numerically using decimals (e.g., Rs. 15.50) or in words (fifteen rupees and fifty paise). This allows for calculations and comparisons of different currency values. The representation must consider the denominations of the currency in use.

2. What is the difference between rupees and paise?

The rupee (Rs.) is the basic unit of Indian currency, while the paise is a smaller subunit. There are 100 paise in one rupee. Understanding this conversion is crucial for calculations involving money in maths problems.

3. What are the symbols for various currencies?

Different countries use different currency symbols. Common examples include: (Indian Rupee), $ (US Dollar), £ (British Pound), and (Euro). Knowing these symbols is important for identifying and representing different types of money internationally.

4. How do you write Rs. 25.75 in words?

Rs. 25.75 is written as twenty-five rupees and seventy-five paise. Correctly writing amounts in words is a key skill for accurately representing and understanding currency in mathematical problems.

5. How do you convert rupees to paise?

To convert rupees to paise, multiply the rupee amount by 100. For example, 10 rupees equals 10 * 100 = 1000 paise. This currency conversion is fundamental to solving money-related problems.

6. What is a representative money example?

A representative money example is a system where the currency's value is backed by something else, such as a precious metal like gold or silver. Unlike fiat money, which isn't backed by a physical commodity, representative money has an inherent value tied to the backing asset. Understanding different types of money helps you grasp the concept of currency representation in economics and mathematics.

7. How is money represented visually?

Money is visually represented through physical forms like coins and notes, each with unique colors, designs, and denominations. Charts and tables can also visually display currency denominations and their numerical representation. Visual aids are essential for understanding and working with money.

8. What symbol represents money?

The symbol for money varies depending on the currency. The most common symbol for the Indian Rupee is . Other currencies have their own unique symbols. Understanding these money symbols is vital for properly representing different currencies.

9. What does money represent?

Money represents a medium of exchange, a unit of account, and a store of value in an economy. It simplifies transactions, allows for comparisons of value, and stores purchasing power. Understanding these characteristics of money is key to many math problems and economic concepts.

10. How do I solve word problems with money?

Solving word problems involving money requires careful reading and identification of the relevant information. First, identify the given values, then determine the appropriate mathematical operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division) to solve the problem. It is crucial to use correct numerical representation and currency conversion techniques.

11. How to convert rupees to paise?

To convert rupees to paise, simply multiply the number of rupees by 100. For example, 5 rupees is equal to 5 x 100 = 500 paise. This is a fundamental skill in working with Indian currency in mathematics problems.

12. How is money represented in daily life?

In daily life, money is represented in various ways: physical cash (coins and notes), digital transactions (online banking and mobile payments), and as numbers in receipts and accounts. Understanding these various forms helps in managing personal finance and solving real-world math problems.