Paper Money Book

Category: Asia

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

Macau 500, 1000 patacas BNU and BOC

Asia

  

The 500 Patacas (US$62.62; €53.84) P-94; B-95 banknote is a green issue measuring 158 x 79 mm, dated 18 DE MAIO DE 2020 and introduced in 2026. Issued by Banco Nacional Ultramarino, the note reflects Macau’s blend of heritage and modernity. The front features the denomination as a registration device and prominently displays a lotus flower, a symbol closely associated with Macau. The design also presents the old and new façades of the Banco Nacional Ultramarino headquarters building, emphasizing architectural continuity. A lotus flower printed in optically variable ink (OVI) adds both symbolism and advanced security.

The back design centers on a stylized tree and a map of Macau as it appeared in 1986, highlighting the territory’s historical landscape. The denomination appears again as a registration device, reinforcing visual alignment. Security features include a green-to-magenta windowed security thread with a demetalized lotus flower and “MOP 500,” as well as a watermark depicting a lotus flower and electrotype “500.” Although the printer remains unidentified, the note incorporates modern anti-counterfeiting elements consistent with contemporary banknote production, combining cultural identity with secure design.

The 1000 Patacas (US$125.25; €107.68) P-95; B-96 banknote is an orange issue measuring 163 x 81.5 mm, dated 18 DE MAIO DE 2020 and introduced in 2026. Issued by Banco Nacional Ultramarino, the note highlights Macau’s cultural identity and architectural heritage. The front displays the denomination as a registration device and features the lotus flower, an enduring emblem of Macau. The design also presents the old and new façades of the Banco Nacional Ultramarino headquarters building, symbolizing continuity between tradition and progress. A lotus flower printed in optically variable ink (OVI) enhances both symbolism and security.

The reverse shows a stylized tree and a detailed map of Macau as it appeared in 2022, emphasizing the territory’s modern landscape and development. The denomination reappears as a registration device, ensuring precise alignment when viewed against the light. Security elements include a green-to-magenta windowed security thread with a demetalized lotus flower and “MOP 1000,” along with a watermark of a lotus flower and electrotype “1000.” Although the printer is unknown, the advanced security features reflect contemporary banknote standards and reinforce protection against counterfeiting.

The 500 Patacas (US$62.62; €53.84) P-133; B-241 banknote is a green issue measuring 158 x 80 mm, dated 18 DE MAIO DE 2020 and introduced in 2026. Issued by Bank of China (Macau), it was printed by Hong Kong Note Printing Limited (HKNP). The front features the denomination as a registration device alongside façades of small traditional buildings and the prominent Bank of China Tower (Macau). A Southern lion motif symbolizes prosperity and cultural heritage, while the bank’s logo appears clearly integrated into the design. A dragon head rendered in optically variable ink (OVI) provides a dynamic color-shifting security element.

The reverse presents a modern skyline of large buildings, reflecting Macau’s rapid urban development. The historic Templo de A-Má (Temple of A-Ma) stands as the central architectural feature, emphasizing the region’s spiritual and historical roots. The bank logo is repeated, and the denomination appears again as a registration device to ensure accurate alignment. Security features include a magenta-to-green windowed security thread with a demetalized lotus flower and a watermark depicting a lotus flower with electrotype “500,” reinforcing both authenticity and visual elegance.

The 1000 Patacas (US$125.25; €107.68) P-134; B-242 banknote is an orange issue measuring 164 x 82 mm, dated 18 DE MAIO DE 2020 and introduced in 2026. Issued by Bank of China (Macau), it was printed by Hong Kong Note Printing Limited (HKNP). The front displays the denomination as a registration device together with façades of small traditional buildings and the prominent Bank of China Tower (Macau). A Southern lion motif symbolizes strength and prosperity, while the bank’s logo is clearly integrated into the composition. A dragon head printed in optically variable ink (OVI) provides a vivid color-shifting security feature that enhances both aesthetics and protection.

The reverse highlights Macau’s modern skyline of large buildings, reflecting the territory’s continued growth and development. The historic Tung Sin Tong Historical Archive Exhibition Hall serves as the central architectural element, emphasizing cultural preservation and community heritage. The bank logo appears again, and the denomination functions as a registration device to ensure precise alignment. Security elements include a magenta-to-green windowed security thread with a demetalized lotus flower and a watermark featuring a lotus flower with electrotype “1000,” reinforcing authenticity and advanced anti-counterfeiting standards.

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Syria new family

Asia

  

The 10 Pounds (US$0.02; €0.02) P-119; B-637 banknote is a red issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), the note reflects contemporary Syrian currency design. The front features a delicate butterfly motif alongside the eagle with stars, the national emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon serves as a registration device, complemented by roses and intricate Arabesque patterns that emphasize traditional artistic heritage.

The reverse displays three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters building of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. Also depicted is the Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque, one of the city’s most historic landmarks. The concave hexadecagon reappears as a registration device, ensuring precise alignment of front and back elements. Security features include a purple windowed security thread with a wavy line, while the watermark remains unspecified. The note bears the signature of Sabrine, confirming its official authorization for circulation.

The 25 Pounds (US$0.05; €0.04) P-120; B-638 banknote is a blue issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), this note reflects modern Syrian currency design with intricate symbolic elements. The front features a stylized bird alongside the eagle with stars, the national emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon functions as a registration device, while a mulberry branch with leaves and fruit, combined with traditional Arabesque patterns, emphasizes Syria’s cultural and natural heritage.

The reverse depicts three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters building of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque appears prominently, showcasing the city’s historical architecture. The concave hexadecagon is repeated as a registration device for alignment. Security features include a blue windowed security thread with a wavy line, while the watermark remains unspecified. The note bears the signature of Sabrine, confirming its official issuance and authentication, blending modern security with symbolic national imagery.

The 50 Pounds (US$0.10; €0.08) P-121; B-639 banknote is a brown issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), the note exemplifies contemporary Syrian currency design with detailed symbolic and cultural elements. The front features a conch shell alongside the eagle with stars, the emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon serves as a registration device, while an orange tree branch with leaves and fruit, paired with intricate Arabesque patterns, highlights Syria’s natural and artistic heritage.

The reverse shows three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters building of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque is prominently depicted, underscoring the city’s historic architecture. The concave hexadecagon repeats as a registration device for precise alignment. Security features include a gold windowed security thread with a wavy line, enhancing anti-counterfeiting protection, while the watermark remains unspecified. The note bears the signature of Sabrine, affirming its official issuance and authenticity, blending traditional motifs with modern security techniques in a distinctive and culturally rich design.

The 100 Pounds (US$0.20; €0.17) P-122; B-640 banknote is a purple issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), the note combines modern security features with symbolic Syrian motifs. The front displays an antelope alongside the eagle with stars, the emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon serves as a registration device, while cotton bolls and intricate Arabesque patterns emphasize the country’s agricultural heritage and artistic traditions.

The reverse presents three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque is prominently featured, reflecting the city’s historic architecture. The concave hexadecagon repeats as a registration device to ensure proper alignment. Security elements include a winged windowed holographic security thread, providing advanced anti-counterfeiting protection. Although the watermark remains unspecified, the note bears the signature of Sabrine, confirming its official issuance. Overall, this design integrates national symbols, cultural heritage, and modern security techniques in a visually striking and authentic Syrian banknote.

The 200 Pounds (US$0.39; €0.34) P-123; B-641 banknote is a green issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), this note combines modern security measures with rich Syrian symbolism. The front features the head of an Arabian horse, a revered symbol of strength and heritage, alongside the eagle with stars, the emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon serves as a registration device, while an olive tree branch with leaves and fruit, paired with intricate Arabesque patterns, emphasizes the nation’s agricultural traditions and artistic culture.

The reverse presents three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque is depicted prominently, highlighting the city’s historic and architectural significance. Security features include a winged windowed holographic security thread, while the watermark remains unspecified. The concave hexadecagon repeats as a registration device to ensure precise alignment. The note bears the signature of Sabrine, confirming its authenticity and official issuance. This design merges cultural heritage, national symbols, and modern security technology, creating a distinctive and meaningful banknote.

The 500 Pounds (US$0.98; €0.84) P-124; B-642 banknote is a brown issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), this note combines traditional Syrian motifs with modern security features. The front displays a bird alongside the eagle with stars, the national emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon functions as a registration device, while wheat spikes and intricate Arabesque patterns highlight the nation’s agricultural heritage and artistic traditions.

The reverse depicts three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque is featured prominently, emphasizing the historical and architectural significance of the city. Security measures include a winged windowed holographic security thread, while the watermark remains unspecified. The concave hexadecagon is repeated as a registration device to ensure alignment of the front and back designs. Bearing the signature of Sabrine, the note is officially authenticated, integrating Syrian national symbols, cultural elements, and modern anti-counterfeiting technology into a visually distinctive and meaningful currency.

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China 20-yuan ‘Year of the Horse’

Asia, Commemorative

   

The 20 Yuan (US$2.93; €2.52) P-922; B-4129 banknote is a pink, red, orange, and green polymer issue measuring 70 x 145 mm, introduced on 03.01.2026 with prefix J. Printed by China Banknote Printing, the note reflects modern Chinese polymer banknote design, combining vibrant colors and durable material suitable for extended circulation. As a polymer issue, it does not include a watermark or security thread, relying instead on design elements and optically variable printing for authenticity.

The obverse features the national emblem of the People’s Republic of China alongside a stylized horse, symbolizing vitality and strength. The denomination is displayed in SPARK Optical ink, providing a subtle color-shifting effect that enhances security and aesthetic appeal.

The reverse depicts three children playing musical instruments against a backdrop of residential houses, emphasizing cultural heritage, community, and everyday life in China. The layout balances national symbolism with relatable imagery, highlighting both tradition and modern living. The note does not carry a signature, relying on its official issuance, polymer durability, and distinctive SPARK Optical denomination as its primary markers of authenticity, making it a secure and visually striking addition to the modern Chinese currency series.

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Oman new 1-rial commemorative

Asia, Commemorative

  

The 1 Rial (US$2.60; €2.23) P-56; B-245 banknote is a brown, green, and purple polymer issue measuring 145 x 76 mm, introduced on 11.01.2026 and printed on Guardian polymer. Produced by Giesecke+Devrient, the note reflects modern Omani banknote design, combining durability with vivid color and intricate imagery. The front features the frankincense tree, a symbolic element of Oman’s natural heritage, also rendered in optically variable ink (OVI) for enhanced visual effect. Complementing this is the depiction of the arched windows of the Oman Botanic Garden and a portrait of Haitham bin Tariq, emphasizing the nation’s leadership and cultural pride.

The reverse highlights Omani infrastructure and heritage, featuring Duqm Port, the Duqm Refinery, and the Sayyid Tarik bin Taimour Cultural Complex. The arched windows of the Oman Botanic Garden are repeated, alongside the national coat of arms with crossed swords and a khanjar (dagger). While the note lacks a security thread and its shadow watermark is unspecified, it bears the signature of Sultan Qaboos bin Said

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Russia new 1000-rubles banknote

Asia

    

The 1,000 Rubles (US$12.80; €11.00) P-278; B-837 banknote is a green issue measuring 157 x 69 mm, dated 2025 and introduced on 26.12.2025 with prefix PP. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), the note combines modern security features with iconic Russian architecture and landscapes. The obverse displays the bank seal alongside Nikolskaya (Saint Nicholas Tower) and the bridge of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin, an unknown building, and a map of the Oka and Volga rivers. Additional design elements include a stylized tower and circle printed in golden-crimson to golden-green OVI, another unidentified building, and a QR code, blending security and visual complexity.

The reverse features the Saratov road bridge, the hydrofoil vessel Meteor-120R, the Palace of Farmers, and a map of the Volga Federal District with flying birds, highlighting Russian engineering and regional identity. Security features include a 5.5-mm wide winged windowed holographic thread with demetalized “1000 CBRF” and a watermark depicting Nikolskaya with the bridge and electrotype “1000.” This banknote integrates historical landmarks, regional symbolism, and advanced anti-counterfeiting technology, making it both secure and representative of Russia’s cultural and infrastructural heritage.

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Thailand new commemorative 100 baht

Asia, Commemorative

Celebration of King Maha Vajiralongkorn 72nd Birthday

 

The 100 Baht note, with an approximate value of US$3.16 or €2.72, P-143; B-201. This banknote features a color scheme of brown and yellow, and its dimensions are 89 x 163 mm. It is made of polymer, which enhances its durability and resistance to wear and tear.

On the front of the note, King Rama X, Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, is depicted in full regalia. He is shown wearing the Knight Grand Cordon (Special Class) of the Most Illustrious Order of Chula Chom Klao breast chain, signifying his esteemed position and the honor bestowed upon him.

The reverse side also features King Rama X, this time in full regalia with the Ancient and Auspicious Order of the Nine Gems, as well as the Knight Grand Cordon (Special Class) of the Most Illustrious Order of Chula Chom Klao breast chain. This imagery underscores the continuity of his royal duties and honors.

Unlike many modern banknotes, this 100 Baht note does not include a security thread. However, it does incorporate a watermark, which is a shadow image of the royal monogram. This watermark is a key security feature that helps in verifying the authenticity of the note.

The note is printed by the Note Printing Works of the Bank of Thailand (NPW), an established printer responsible for producing secure currency for the country.

This specific series of the 100 Baht note is dated 2024, with its introduction set for July 23, 2024. A total of 10,000,000 notes have been issued in this series. The note carries the signatures of Thavisin and Suthiwartnarueput, lending further authenticity and authority to the currency.

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Mongolia new commemorative 5000 togrog

Asia, Commemorative

Celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Modern Banking System in Mongolia

 

The 5000 Togrog banknote P-80; B-449, valued at approximately US$1.75 or €1.50. This note is characterized by its pink color and has dimensions of 152 x 72 mm.

On the front of the note, there is a portrait of Chinggis Khaan, a prominent figure in Mongolian history and a symbol of national pride. Accompanying the portrait is the Soyombo symbol, which is an emblem of Mongolia. The note also features the Modern Banking 100th Anniversary logo in SPARK, a security feature that changes color when tilted. Additionally, there is an image of a warrior on horseback in SPARK Orbital, further enhancing the note’s security and visual appeal.

The reverse side of the note depicts a building courtyard with a tree-like water fountain. This serene image adds a touch of tranquility and showcases a piece of Mongolian architecture and design.

For security, the note includes a Breeze windowed security thread. This thread is partially embedded and partially visible when the note is held up to the light, providing an additional layer of protection against counterfeiting. Moreover, the watermark features Chinggis Khaan along with an electrotype МБ, another security measure to verify the note’s authenticity.

The note is printed by Giesecke & Devrient (G&D), a renowned security printing company based in Germany known for producing high-quality banknotes.

This series of the 5000 Togrog note is dated 2024 and has the prefix MB. It was introduced on May 31, 2024, and bears the signature of Lkhagvasuren, further authenticating the note.

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Japan new family banknotes

Asia

The 1,000 Yen note P-107; B-368 equivalent to US$9.47 or €8.14). It features a vibrant palette of blue and multicolor, and its dimensions are 150 x 76 mm. The front side of the note showcases flowers alongside a portrait of Kitasato Shibasaburō, a renowned bacteriologist.

On the reverse side, the note depicts Katsushika Hokusai’s famous woodblock print, “The Great Wave of Kanagawa,” which is part of the series “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.” Adding to its security features, there is a holographic patch incorporated into the design.

Notably, the note does not have a security thread. However, it includes a watermark of Kitasato Shibasaburō and a single vertical bar. The printing of this note is carried out by the National Printing Bureau (国立印刷局).

This particular note was introduced without a specified date (ND) in 2004 and is marked with the suffix AA/NR. It officially entered circulation on March 7, 2024. There are no signatures present on this note.

The 5,000 Yen note P-108; B-369, which is valued at US$47.35 or €40.71. This note is characterized by its violet and multicolor design and measures 156 x 76 mm. The front side features an array of flowers and a portrait of Tsuda Umeko, a prominent educator. A holographic stripe is also present on the front side, enhancing its security features.

On the back, the note displays a beautiful illustration of wisteria flowers, complemented by another holographic stripe. Unlike some other banknotes, this 5,000 Yen note does not have a security thread. However, it does include a watermark of Tsuda Umeko along with two vertical bars, adding an extra layer of authenticity.

The printing of this note is undertaken by the National Printing Bureau (国立印刷局). The note is undated (ND), first introduced in 2004, and carries the suffix AA/WK. It was officially put into circulation on March 7, 2024. There are no signatures on this note.

The 10,000 Yen note P-109; B-370 is valued at US$94.71 or €81.42. This note features a brown design on a multicolor background and has dimensions of 160 x 76 mm. The front side showcases a holographic stripe, a collection of flowers, and a portrait of Shibusawa Eiichi, a notable industrialist.

On the reverse side, the note depicts the Marunouchi side of the red brick Tokyo Station, dating back to 1914. The design does not include a security thread but incorporates a watermark of Shibusawa Eiichi along with three vertical bars, providing an added layer of security.

The note is printed by the National Printing Bureau (国立印刷局). It is undated (ND) but was first introduced in 2004 and is marked with the suffix AA/WS. The note officially entered circulation on March 7, 2024, and it does not feature any signatures.

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Abkhazia new 10 and 20 apsars

Asia

 

The 10 Apsars banknote , P-3; B-103, with an approximate value of US$1.54 or €1.38. This banknote is marked by its yellow, orange, and brown colors and measures 150 x 65 mm.

The front of the note features the coat of arms of Abkhazia prominently, along with the apsars symbol. It also includes a series of seven 5-pointed stars, a paw print, and the face of a leopard, emphasizing the region’s rich wildlife. An ancient bronze axe with a primitive drawing of an animal is depicted, symbolizing Abkhazia’s historical heritage. The coat of arms appears again, reinforcing national pride.

On the reverse side, the note displays the apsars symbol and the ancient bronze axe with a primitive drawing of an animal, mirroring the front’s themes of heritage and history. A stylized upper part of an alabasha, which is a traditional Abkhaz military and hierarchical staff, is shown alongside a fern and seven 5-pointed stars. Additionally, there is a QR-code, reflecting a blend of tradition and modern technology.

Unlike many contemporary banknotes, the 10 Apsars note does not include a security thread. However, it features a watermark of a leopard’s face, which is a security measure to help verify its authenticity.

The note is printed by the Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak” (FGU) in Russia, a well-known printer for producing secure and high-quality banknotes.

This particular series of the 10 Apsars note is dated 2024, with its introduction set for June 10, 2024. The note carries the prefix AA and is authenticated by the signature of Beslan Barateliya.

The 100 Apsars banknote P-4; B-104, valued at approximately US$15.40 or €13.80. This banknote is distinguished by its purple and violet color scheme and measures 150 x 65 mm.

On the front of the note, you will find the apsars symbol prominently displayed, alongside the coat of arms of Abkhazia. Seven 5-pointed stars are featured, symbolizing national unity. A delicate flower adds a touch of natural beauty, while the majestic, snow-covered Caucasus mountain represents the region’s stunning landscapes. Additionally, the front side showcases a red deer with antlers, embodying the local wildlife, and a blackbird perched on a pine branch adorned with cones and needles, further emphasizing the region’s natural richness.

The reverse side of the note depicts ancient bronze tools, reflecting Abkhazia’s rich historical heritage. The ruins of dolmens and cromlechs add a sense of ancient mystery and cultural depth. The design also includes seven 5-pointed stars and an amphora, which is a nod to the historical trade and pottery of the region. A QR-code is present as well, integrating modern technology into the note’s design.

This note does not feature a security thread, which is somewhat unusual for contemporary banknotes. The watermark is currently unknown, leaving an element of mystery regarding its security features.

Printed by the Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak” (FGU) in Russia, this 100 Apsars note is produced by a reputable entity known for its expertise in secure banknote production.

The series of the 100 Apsars note is dated 2024 and has the prefix AA. It was introduced on June 10, 2024, and is authenticated by the signature of Beslan Barateliya.

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Kyrgyzstan 2024 new 5000 Som banknote

Asia

The 5,000 Som banknote, valued at approximately US$63.03 and €54.19, P-40; B-241. This note is predominantly green in color and measures 156 x 73 mm.

On the front, the banknote features an ornate design with the denomination highlighted in gold-to-jade optically variable ink (OVI). The note honors Suimenkul Chokmorov, an esteemed actor, painter, and sportsman, with his portrait prominently displayed. Additionally, a diamond pattern serves as a registration device, enhancing both the security and aesthetic appeal of the note.

The back of the note includes text in Kyrgyz and features the diamond pattern as a registration device. It also depicts Ala-Too, one of the oldest cinemas in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. The picturesque mountains in the background add to the visual appeal and cultural significance of the note.

This banknote is equipped with a RAPID HD Detect windowed security thread, which provides a robust measure against counterfeiting. The note is printed by Oberthur Technologies (França) – OT, a renowned printing company.

The watermark on the note features Suimenkul Chokmorov’s image along with the electrotype “5000,” ensuring an additional layer of security.

Dated 2023, the note was introduced on May 10, 2024. It bears the signature of Kubanychbek Bokontayev, which authenticates the note’s official issuance.

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