Paper Money Book

Category: Africa

Banknotes of Africa, current, obsolete and commemorative paper money in accurate details. Daily face value in euro and dollars of all banknotes.

Zimbabwe new 10, 20 and 50 ZIG

Africa

The “10 Zig P-115; B-206” banknote features a striking and symbolic design, dominated by a red color scheme and measuring 155 x 65 mm. On the front, several elements highlight Zimbabwe’s national identity. These include the Zimbabwe bird on a star used as a registration device, as well as its repetition as a PEAK device. A Cape buffalo, representing the country’s wildlife, is also depicted. In addition, the balancing rocks of Chiremba in Epworth appear, alongside gold bars, emphasizing Zimbabwe’s rich mineral resources.

On the back of the banknote, the theme of natural and cultural wealth continues. Gold bars are again illustrated, reinforcing the economic significance of mining. The balancing rocks of the Matopo Hills are prominently displayed, offering a well-known national landmark. The Zimbabwe bird on a star reappears as a registration device, ensuring visual continuity and contributing to the note’s security features.

Regarding security, the banknote includes a solid security thread with demetallized “10 ZIG” text. The watermark consists of the Zimbabwe bird and the electrotype “10.” The printer is unknown. Dated 2026, with prefix AA and introduced on April 7, 2026, the note bears the signature of Governor John Mushayavanhu.

The “20 Zig P-116; B-207” banknote features a refined and symbolic design, presented in a brown color scheme and measuring 155 x 65 mm. On the front, key elements reflect Zimbabwe’s national heritage and identity. The Zimbabwe bird on a star appears as a registration device and is repeated as a PEAK device. An elephant, symbolizing the country’s rich wildlife, is prominently displayed. The Chiremba balancing rocks in Epworth are also illustrated, alongside gold bars, emphasizing the importance of natural resources and mining to Zimbabwe’s economy.

On the reverse side, the design continues to highlight national pride and development. Gold bars are once again depicted, reinforcing the theme of mineral wealth. The new parliament building complex in Harare is featured as a modern architectural landmark, symbolizing governance and progress. The Zimbabwe bird on a star reappears as a registration device, ensuring visual consistency and added security.

In terms of security features, the banknote includes a solid security thread with demetallized “20 ZIG” text. The watermark consists of the Zimbabwe bird and the electrotype “20.” Printed by an unknown printer, the note is dated 2026, carries prefix AA, was introduced on April 7, 2026, and bears the signature of Governor John Mushayavanhu.

The “50 Zig P-117; B-208” banknote presents a vibrant and symbolic design, combining green and yellow tones and measuring 155 x 65 mm. On the front, several elements emphasize Zimbabwe’s natural heritage and identity. The Zimbabwe bird on a star appears as both a registration device and a PEAK device. A rhinoceros, representing the country’s iconic wildlife, is prominently featured. The Chiremba balancing rocks in Epworth are also depicted, alongside gold bars, highlighting Zimbabwe’s geological richness and mineral resources.

On the reverse side, the design continues with a strong focus on national assets and infrastructure. Gold bars appear again, enhanced with a gold-to-green ColorShift effect that adds both visual appeal and security. The Kariba Dam, one of the country’s most significant engineering achievements, is prominently illustrated, symbolizing energy production and economic development. The Zimbabwe bird on a star is repeated as a registration device, maintaining visual consistency across the note.

In terms of security, the banknote includes a solid security thread with demetallized “50 ZIG” text. The watermark features the Zimbabwe bird along with the electrotype “50.” Printed by an unknown printer, the note is dated 2026, carries prefix AA, was introduced on April 7, 2026, and bears the signature of Governor John Mushayavanhu.

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Saint Helena new family

Africa

The 5 Pounds (US$6.37; €5.48) P-14; B-310 banknote is a blue polymer issue measuring 135 x 70 mm, introduced in January 2026 with prefix A. Printed by De La Rue, the note reflects modern substrate technology, offering enhanced durability and resistance to wear in circulation. As a polymer banknote, it does not contain a traditional watermark or security thread, relying instead on advanced transparent and printed security features integrated into the material.

The obverse features a portrait of Charles III, symbolizing Saint Helena’s status as a British Overseas Territory. The reverse celebrates the island’s unique natural heritage, depicting the Saint Helena ebony (Trochetiopsis ebenus) flower, a rare endemic species once thought extinct. Alongside it appears Jonathan the Tortoise, a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa), recognized as one of the world’s oldest living land animals and a cherished resident of Jamestown, Saint Helena. The combination of royal portraiture and distinctive local wildlife emphasizes both constitutional ties and environmental identity, making this polymer issue a notable addition to Saint Helena’s modern currency series.

The 10 Pounds (US$12.74; €10.96) P-15; B-311 banknote is a red polymer issue measuring 135 x 70 mm, introduced in January 2026 with prefix A. Printed by De La Rue, the note reflects contemporary banknote technology designed for durability and security. As a polymer substrate issue, it does not incorporate a traditional security thread or watermark, instead relying on integrated transparent windows and advanced printed elements to deter counterfeiting while extending circulation life.

The obverse presents a portrait of Charles III, underscoring Saint Helena’s constitutional connection as a British Overseas Territory. The reverse highlights the island’s distinctive natural heritage, featuring the Saint Helena ebony (Trochetiopsis ebenus) flower, an endemic species once believed extinct and now a conservation symbol. Accompanying it is Jonathan the Tortoise, a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa), regarded as one of the oldest living land animals and a celebrated resident of Jamestown, Saint Helena. The harmonious blend of royal imagery and local biodiversity gives the note both national significance and environmental character within Saint Helena’s modern polymer currency series.

The 20 Pounds (US$25.49; €21.91) P-16; B-312 banknote is a brown polymer issue measuring 135 x 70 mm, introduced in January 2026 with prefix A. Printed by De La Rue, the note reflects modern currency production standards, emphasizing durability and enhanced security. As a polymer banknote, it does not include a traditional watermark or embedded security thread. Instead, it relies on advanced substrate features such as transparent windows and specialized printed elements to protect against counterfeiting while ensuring a longer lifespan in circulation.

The obverse features a portrait of Charles III, highlighting Saint Helena’s constitutional ties as a British Overseas Territory. The reverse celebrates the island’s unique biodiversity with the Saint Helena ebony (Trochetiopsis ebenus) flower, a rare endemic plant once thought extinct and now a conservation emblem. Also depicted is Jonathan the Tortoise, a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa), famed as one of the oldest living land animals and a treasured inhabitant of Jamestown, Saint Helena. Together, these elements blend royal symbolism with local environmental heritage, defining the identity of Saint Helena’s contemporary polymer currency series.

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Comoros new 5000 and 10000 francs

Africa

  

The 5,000 Francs banknote (US$11.80; €10.14), catalogued as P-18d; B-311a, is a purple issue measuring 138 x 73 mm. Dated 2025 and introduced on 05.01.2026, it bears the signature of Younoussa Imani. Printed by the Banque de France (France) – BF, the note reflects refined production standards and advanced security integration. On the front, the Emblem of the Union of the Comoros appears in gold-to-purple optically variable ink (OVI), shifting color under changing light. A holographic stripe further strengthens its defenses against counterfeiting. The design also features Mount Karthala, the country’s renowned volcano, symbolizing natural strength and identity, alongside President Saïd Mohamed Cheikh, a key historical figure in the nation’s political development.

The reverse highlights the iconic baobab (Adansonia digitata) tree, a powerful emblem of endurance and life across the African landscape. Security elements include a solid thread with printed “BCC” and a holographic stripe embedded within the substrate. When held to the light, the watermark reveals a crescent moon with “BCC” and electrotype stars. Together, the artistic motifs and protective features combine cultural symbolism with modern banknote technology, ensuring both visual distinction and monetary security.

The 10,000 Francs banknote (US$23.59; €20.28), catalogued as P-19d; B-312a, is a vibrant yellow issue measuring 144 x 73 mm. Dated 2025 and introduced on 05.01.2026, it carries four authorized signatures. Printed by the Banque de France (France) – BF, the note demonstrates high production quality and enhanced security features. On the front, the Emblem of the Union of the Comoros appears in gold-to-purple optically variable ink (OVI), creating a dynamic color-shifting effect. A holographic stripe adds further protection. The design prominently features the Friday Mosque in Moroni, one of the nation’s most important religious landmarks, alongside Grand Moufti Al-Habib Saïd Omar Bin Soumeit, reflecting the country’s spiritual heritage and leadership.

The reverse celebrates the natural wealth of the islands. Green vanilla pods and ylang-ylang flowers (Cananga odorata) highlight key agricultural exports, while the green sea turtle symbolizes the rich marine biodiversity surrounding the archipelago. A poem by Mbaye Trambwe adds cultural depth and literary pride to the composition. Security elements include a solid thread with printed “BCC” and a holographic stripe integrated into the substrate. When held to light, the watermark reveals a crescent moon with “BCC” and electrotype stars, combining artistic beauty with advanced anti-counterfeiting technology.

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Morocco new 200 dirhams

Africa, Commemorative

  

The 100 Dirhams banknote (US$10.76; €9.25), catalogued as P-83; B-524, is a gray issue measuring 144 x 70 mm. Dated 1447–2025 and introduced on 22.12.2025, it bears the signatures Unknown/Jouahri. Printed by Dar As-Sikkah (Morocco) – DaS, the note combines national symbolism with modern design. The front displays three hexagons and the denomination in gold optically variable ink (OVI). An outline map of Africa appears alongside Moroccan arabesque motifs and a stylized football in purple OVI. The Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex is prominently featured, together with King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan coat of arms. The denomination also functions as a registration device, carefully aligned with elements on the reverse.

The back continues the football theme, with five-pointed stars encircling an outline map of Africa integrated into a football design. The interior of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat is shown with players in silhouette chasing the ball, reinforcing the sporting celebration. Moroccan arabesque motifs frame the composition. Security features include a galaxy gold-to-green windowed security thread with a demetalized five-pointed star, “DH,” and “100.” The watermark portrays King Mohammed VI alongside an electrotype “100,” ensuring strong visual identity and advanced protection.

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South Sudan new 1000 pounds

Africa

 

The 1000 Sudanese Pounds note, P-21; B-118, is valued at approximately US$7.68 or €6.60. This banknote is distinguished by its red color and has dimensions of 150 x 75 mm, making it a standard-sized note.

On the front of the note, you will find an image of Dr. John Garang de Mabior. Dr. Garang was a prominent Sudanese leader and the founder of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement. His depiction on the banknote is a tribute to his significant role in Sudanese history and politics.

The reverse side of the note features an illustration of ostriches. Ostriches are native to the region and represent the country’s rich and diverse wildlife. This choice of imagery highlights the natural beauty and ecological importance of Sudan.

To ensure the security of the note, it includes several advanced features. One such feature is a color-changing holographic security strip, which helps to prevent counterfeiting. Additionally, a windowed security thread runs through the note, adding another layer of protection against forgery.

The note is printed by De La Rue, a renowned security printing company based in London, England. De La Rue is known for its expertise in producing secure banknotes for countries around the world.

Watermarks are also present on the note, featuring the image of John Garang, the electrotype 1000, and Cornerstones. These watermarks are visible when the note is held up to the light, providing another method for verifying its authenticity.

This particular series of the 1000 Sudanese Pounds note is dated 2024 and has the prefix CN. The note bears the signatures of James Alic Garang and Dhieu Mathok Diing Wol, further authenticating its issuance.

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Eswatini new 50 emalangeni banknote

Africa, Commemorative

Celebration of 50th anniversary of the founding of the Monetary Authority of Swaziland

The 50 emalangeni P-46; B-106 banknote is a vibrant purple in color and measures 152 x 70 mm.

On the front of the banknote, a portrait of King Mswati III is prominently displayed. Accompanying this are the coat of arms and a purple Optical Variable Ink (OVI) device featuring a shield. The denomination is also present as a registration device, ensuring easy recognition and verification.

The back of the banknote showcases a variety of elements. The denomination appears again as a registration device. Additionally, there is an image of a jet plane departing from King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) located in Lubombo. The scenery includes Emlembe mountain, which is a significant geographical feature, and a depiction of a freeway interchange, symbolizing infrastructure development. In a nod to modern technology, binary numbers are displayed, along with a tap-to-pay logo, emphasizing the banknote’s compatibility with contemporary payment methods.

For security, the banknote includes a green-to-pink windowed security thread with a demetalized “CBE 50.” The note is printed by Giesecke & Devrient (G&D) from Germany, a renowned printer known for its high-quality banknotes.

The watermark features an image of King Mswati III, providing an additional layer of authenticity. Dated April 1, 2024, and bearing the prefix “AD,” the banknote was introduced on May 10, 2024. The signatures of Rijkenberg and Mnisi are present on the note, signifying its official status.

This banknote commemorates the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Monetary Authority of Swaziland, marking a significant milestone in the country’s financial history.

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Zimbabwe new currency 10 ZIG

Africa

The new note of Zimbabwe 10 Zig, P-110; B-201 features a vibrant color scheme of blue and red, with dimensions measuring 155 x 65 mm.

On the front of the banknote, there is an intricate depiction of the Zimbabwe bird perched on a star, serving as a registration device. Additionally, the Chiremba balancing rocks in Epworth are prominently featured, alongside a QR Code.

The back of the banknote showcases a dynamic image of molten gold being poured from a crucible into an ingot mold, which is placed atop a stack of gold bars. The Zimbabwe bird on a star reappears as a registration device.

For added security, the banknote includes a green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBZZIG. The watermark on the note also features the Zimbabwe bird.

Printed in 2024, the banknote has the prefix “AA” and was introduced on April 30, 2024. The signature of John Mushayavanhu, the Governor, is present on the note. However, the identity of the printer remains unknown.

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Morocco new 100 and 200 dirham

Africa

The 100 Dirhams banknote, P-81; B-522, features a vibrant color palette of yellow and brown. With dimensions measuring 144 x 70 mm, this Moroccan currency note boasts intricate design elements on both its front and back.

On the front side, the imagery captures the arcades of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, showcasing the grandeur of this architectural marvel. Additionally, the front incorporates detailed depictions of Moroccan doors, along with the prominent figures of King Mohamed VI and the Moroccan coat of arms. Denomination numerals serve a dual purpose, functioning both as part of the design and as a registration device.

Turning to the back of the banknote, a variety of scenes unfolds. Denomination numerals reappear as part of the registration device, while notable landmarks such as the Tiznit-Dahla expressway and Place Mechouar in Laayoune, Casablanca, are prominently featured. The celebration of the Feast of Moussem de Tan-Tan adds cultural significance, complemented by the dynamic image of a bird in flight.

Incorporating advanced security features, the banknote includes a windowed, color-shifting security thread with dynamic effects. The printing of the note is attributed to Dar As-Sikkah, a recognized printer in the currency industry. A watermark, featuring the likeness of King Mohammed VI and the electrotype 100, further enhances the note’s security.

Dated 1445-2023, the introduction of this 100 Dirhams banknote into circulation occurred on November 24, 2023. This currency piece reflects the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Morocco, coupled with modern security features to ensure its integrity in circulation.

 

The 200 Dirhams banknote, P-82; B-523, is characterized by a distinctive color palette of blue-green. With dimensions measuring 151 x 70 mm, this Moroccan currency note features a unique combination of design elements on both its front and back.

The front side of the banknote showcases four prominent 5-pointed stars, accompanied by the denomination in Optically Variable Ink (OVI). The image of the Mohamed VI Bridge at Haubans adds a touch of modernity to the note, juxtaposed with the classical architectural details of Moroccan doors. King Mohammed VI is depicted alongside the Moroccan coat of arms, with the denomination serving as a registration device. Notably, four 5-pointed stars complete the composition on the front.

Turning to the back of the banknote, the denomination reappears as part of the registration device. Stylized views of the Mohamed VI Tower and the International Airport of Marrakesh-Menara contribute to the visual narrative, emphasizing both architectural and technological aspects. Artistic designs related to industrial and digital development further enhance the thematic richness of the note.

In terms of security features, the banknote includes a windowed security thread, adding an additional layer of protection against counterfeiting. The printing of the note is credited to Dar As-Sikkah, a reputable printing institution in the currency industry. The watermark, featuring the likeness of King Mohammed VI and the electrotype 200, attests to the note’s authenticity and quality.

Dated 1445-2023, the introduction of this 200 Dirhams banknote into circulation occurred on January 12, 2024. This currency piece seamlessly blends traditional Moroccan motifs with contemporary elements, symbolizing the country’s dynamic cultural and technological evolution.

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Somalia new 20000 and 50000 shilin

Africa

The 20,000 Shilin banknote P-42; B-321, exhibits a unique blend of brown and green hues, contributing to its distinct appearance. With dimensions measuring 139 x 66 mm, this banknote is notable for its size and color palette.

The front of the banknote showcases the National Theatre in Mogadiscio, offering a cultural and architectural focal point. On the reverse side, the Central Bank of Somalia in Mogadiscio takes center stage, providing a representation of the nation’s financial institution.

Security features on this banknote include a windowed security thread bearing demetalized inscriptions of the Central Bank of Somalia and Arabic text. These elements enhance the note’s resistance to counterfeiting, providing a reliable means of verification.

The printer responsible for producing this banknote is listed as Unknown, with a reference to a Sudanese Printer. While the specific details of the printer may remain undisclosed, the banknote’s quality and authenticity are assured by the reputation of the Sudanese printing industry.

A watermark on the banknote reveals a pixelated lion and an electrotype 20,000, further contributing to its security features. The incorporation of these elements adds layers of complexity to deter counterfeit attempts.

The banknote is dated 2010, denoted in Arabic numerals as “٢٠١٠.” The prefix “EA” provides additional information related to the note’s series or printing batch.

The 50,000 Shilin banknote P-43; B-322, is characterized by a rich blue color palette and has dimensions measuring 139 x 66 mm. This banknote stands out both for its distinctive hue and its notable size.

On the front of the note, the NMasaagidka Isbaheysiga, also known as the “Solidarity” or “Saudi” mosque, in Mogadiscio takes center stage. This architectural marvel serves as a cultural focal point, contributing to the narrative woven into the design of the currency. On the reverse side, the Abdul Aziz mosque, also situated in Mogadiscio, adds to the visual representation of religious and cultural landmarks.

In terms of security features, the banknote incorporates a windowed security thread featuring demetalized inscriptions of the Central Bank of Somalia and Arabic text. These measures enhance the note’s resilience against counterfeiting, providing a reliable means of authentication.

The printer responsible for the production of this banknote is labeled as Unknown, with a reference to a Sudanese Printer. While the specifics of the printing entity remain undisclosed, the banknote’s quality and authenticity are upheld by the reputation of the Sudanese printing industry.

A watermark on the banknote reveals a pixelated lion and an electrotype 50,000, adding an additional layer of security. This pixelated representation, combined with the electrotype, serves as a distinctive feature that contributes to the overall security profile of the note.

Dated as 2010 in Arabic numerals “٢٠١٠,” and featuring the prefix “FA,” this banknote provides insights into its production series or printing batch.

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Lesotho new 200 maloti banknote

Africa, Commemorative

Celebration of the 60th birthday of King Letsie III

The 200 Maloti (US$11.68; €10.04) banknote, P-31; B-232, features a vibrant orange color and has dimensions of 160 x 69 mm.

On the front of the banknote, you’ll find the following elements:

  • A Basotho hat (mokorotlo) as a registration device.
  • An image of King Letsie III against a backdrop of a rock formation.
  • Commemorative text.
  • The national coat of arms with a crocodile on a shield, flanked by Basotho horses.
  • A Basotho hat (mokorotlo) with a demetalized “60” in Optically Variable Ink (OVI).

Turning to the back of the banknote, you’ll see:

  • An illustration of a man on horseback.
  • Another depiction of the Basotho hat (mokorotlo).

For security features, the banknote incorporates a windowed security thread with a demetalized interlocking flower pattern. In terms of watermarking, the banknote features a watermark of King Moshoeshoe I wearing a top hat, along with the electrotype “200” and a Basotho hat. Additionally, you can find cornerstones on the banknote.

The banknote was introduced on July 17th, 2023, with an initial release date of July 13th, 2023. The signatures on the banknote belong to Letete. A total of 5,000,000 of these banknotes were produced.

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