The rupee appreciated by 9 paise to 54.05 against the US dollar in early trade. The aapreciation is attributed to increased selling of the American currency by exporters.Strengthening of the euro against the dollar in overseas market on upbeat German economic data and a higher opening in the domestic equity market supported the rupee.The rupee had gained 4 paise to close at 54.14 in the previous session on sustained capital inflows.