The Indian Numismatic, Historical and Cultural Research Foundation (INHCRF), previously known as the Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies (IIRNS), was established in the year 1980 with the principal objective of promoting studies and research in Indian numismatics, archaeology, culture, and history.

The fundamental activities of INHCRF are threefold. The first is to collaborate with renowned institutions from around the world to work on subjects of similar interest and further exploration in the Indian subcontinent through symbiotic and mutual cooperation amongst scholars and universities alike.

The second is to promote and facilitate research. This it does by making available to the researchers the resources through a documented database, a comprehensive library, and through assistance to other institutions in documenting and cataloging their collections.

The third strives to create awareness among students and the general public about the fundamental value of studying and preserving India's vast and varied numismatic, historical, and cultural heritage. This is achieved through exhibitions, workshops, lectures, and other relevant media displays. INHCRF's 'Shanti-Krishna Museum of Money & History' is one of the efforts to further this cause.

At the core of the INHCRF ideology is the desire to further explore the Indian subcontinent through symbiotic and mutual cooperation amongst scholars and universities alike. In this regard, we have collaborated with the British Museum on a project funded by the ERC. Our other collaborators include Deccan College Post Graduate and Research Institute: Deemed University, Faculty of History from the University of Warsaw, the Faculty of Humanities from the ELTE Eotvos Lorand University, Budapest; and Tata Institute of Fundamental Research amongst others.

The Indian Numismatic, Historical and Cultural Research Foundation (INHCRF) is registered under the Bombay Public Trust Act, 1950 [Registration number: E7652 (Bom)]; Income Tax Act, 1961 (donations to the Foundation are exempt under Section 80G); and the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act [Registration number: 083780444] enabling the foundation to receive foreign contributions.