What to Buy on Dhanteras 2026: A Guide to Silver Coins, Utensils & Puja Items in Australia
Dhanteras marks the first day of Diwali, and for many families it is the most auspicious day of the year to bring something new into the home. In 2026, Dhanteras falls on Friday 6 November, two days before Diwali on Sunday 8 November.
If you are in Australia and planning your Dhanteras shopping, this guide covers what people traditionally buy, why silver is such a popular choice, and how to pick the right piece for your family.
What is Dhanteras?
The name comes from dhan (wealth) and teras (the thirteenth lunar day). The day honours Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda, along with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, who are worshipped for prosperity.
The long-standing tradition is to buy something made of metal on Dhanteras, as a symbol of welcoming wealth and good fortune for the year ahead. Gold and silver are the most popular choices, along with new utensils for the kitchen or puja room.
Why silver is a popular Dhanteras choice
- It carries the meaning. Silver is associated with purity and with Goddess Lakshmi, which is why silver coins and idols are often placed in the puja on Diwali night.
- It suits every budget. A 10 g coin is an easy first purchase, while larger coins, lotas and plates make a bigger family investment.
- It lasts. Silver holds its value and is often passed down through generations.
- It gets used. Utensils, diyas and bells come out every festival, not just once a year.
What to buy on Dhanteras
1. Silver coins
Silver coins are the most popular Dhanteras purchase. Many families buy one every year and keep them in the puja room. Look for 999 fine silver (99.9% pure) and a clearly stated weight.
- 999 Fine Silver Lakshmi Ganesha Coin with Om, 10 g: a classic first coin
- 999 Fine Silver Ashta Lakshmi Coin with Shri, 10 g
- 999 Fine Silver Saraswati Lakshmi Ganesha Coin, 10 g
- Lakshmi Ganesha Coin, 50 g and 100 g for a larger purchase
See the full range in 999 Fine Silver Coins.
2. Silver utensils
Buying a new utensil on Dhanteras is one of the oldest customs of the day. A silver lota, bowl or tumbler is useful for puja and makes a meaningful family heirloom.
- Silver Lota, 46 g: for puja water and rituals
- Sterling Silver Tumbler Cup
- Silver Plate & Spoon Set, 45 g
Browse all Silver Utensils.
3. Lakshmi and Ganesha idols
Lakshmi and Ganesha are worshipped together on Diwali night, and many families choose Dhanteras to bring home a new pair of murtis.
- 999 Pure Silver Ganesha Idol, 11 g, in acrylic dome
- 999 Pure Silver Goddess Lakshmi on Sinhasan, 7 g
- Silver Ganesh Lakshmi Idol, 50 g
Explore the Lakshmi Ganesha collection.
4. Diyas and puja items
Dhanteras evening begins the lighting of diyas that continues through Diwali. A silver diya or bell is a lovely addition to the puja thali.
See all Aarti Thali, Puja Lamps & Bells.
5. A small silver gift
If you are visiting family for Diwali, a small engraved silver box is a thoughtful gift that can hold a coin, sindoor or dry fruits. Try the Lotus Engraved Silver Box or browse Silver Boxes.
How to choose: purity and weight
- 999 fine silver (99.9% pure) is best for coins, idols and puja items, where purity matters most.
- 925 sterling silver (92.5% pure) is stronger and better for items handled often, like utensils and jewellery.
- Check the weight. Silver is valued by weight, so every 925 Hub listing shows it.
- Look for the stamp. Genuine pieces carry a 925 or 999 mark. Read more on our Silver Purity Promise page, or in 925 Sterling Silver vs Pure Silver.
Order in time for Dhanteras
Standard delivery across Australia takes 3 to 8 business days, so we recommend ordering by Friday 30 October to receive your silver before Dhanteras. Orders over $98 ship free, and Melbourne customers can arrange pickup from our Collins Street location.
Muhurat (auspicious) timings differ by city, so check a local panchang for the best time to make your purchase and puja in your part of Australia.
Frequently asked questions
When is Dhanteras in 2026?
Dhanteras is on Friday 6 November 2026, two days before Diwali on Sunday 8 November.
Is it better to buy gold or silver on Dhanteras?
Both are traditional. Silver is more affordable, so many families buy a silver coin or utensil every year and save gold for special occasions.
What should I do with a silver coin bought on Dhanteras?
Many families place it in the Lakshmi puja on Diwali night, then keep it in the puja room or a safe place for the year ahead.
Can I buy silver online in Australia for Dhanteras?
Yes. Shop our Diwali Gifts collection for coins, idols, diyas and utensils, delivered Australia-wide from Melbourne.
Wishing you and your family a happy and prosperous Dhanteras and Diwali.