The rupee appreciated by 25 paise to 52.26 per dollar in early trade today, as the US currency weakened against euro and other major currencies overseas.
Dealers said firm domestic equity markets also supported the local unit.
The rupee had gained 20 paise to close at nearly three- week high of 52.51/52 per dollar yesterday on the Interbank Foreign Exchange sustained selling of the US currency by exporters.
Meanwhile, the 30-share BSE Sensex rose by 151.58 points, or 0.96 per cent, to 15,966.30 in opening trade today.