Albania Archives ⋆ Paper Money Book

Albania new 2,000 Leke banknote

January 17, 2022 admin Europe

The 2,000 Leke (US$18.81; €16.17) banknote P-79; B-325, boasts an enchanting hue of Purple and spans dimensions of 145 x 72 mm.

The front side of the note proudly features the portrait of King Gent of Illyria (181-168 BC), a multifaceted historical figure celebrated as a statesman, warrior, and pioneer in the field of medicine. His legacy also includes the enrichment of the treasury and the minting of bronze coins bearing his name. An ingenious use of the coat of arms as a registration device adds a touch of elegance.

Flipping the banknote, the reverse side is adorned with the coat of arms and a striking representation of antiquity architecture, paying homage to Albania’s rich heritage. Prominently displayed is the Gentiana lutea, a medicinal herb whose healing properties were discovered by none other than King Gent himself. The note’s design is further enriched with a stylized detail of a Liburnian ship, resonating with the maritime history of the region.

Incorporating cutting-edge security features, a windowed security thread gleams with a demetalized rendering of “2000” and a flower motif. This intricate detail contributes to the note’s robust security profile.

The watermark is a work of art in itself, showcasing the visage of Gentius alongside an electrotype “2000” and the coat of arms. This watermark is a testament to the note’s authenticity and historical significance.

This exceptional banknote was meticulously produced by De La Rue, a distinguished printer hailing from London, England. The note carries the year of issuance, 2020, and is identified with the prefix “KA.” Its introduction to circulation occurred on January 17, 2022, signifying its integration into the economy. The signatures of Gent Sejko, Governor, and Stefan Sevo, Director of the Department of Issue, add the final strokes of authority to this remarkable currency.

Members see complete information in Albania

Albania new 500 Leke banknote

January 17, 2022 admin Europe

The 500 Leke (US$4.70; €4.04) banknote P-77; B-323, showcases a captivating hue of Blue, and boasts dimensions of 130 x 69 mm.

The front of the banknote is graced by the portrait of Ismail Qemal Bej Vlora (1844-1919), an eminent figure in the Albanian national movement and the first Prime Minister of an independent Albania. The double-headed eagle, a symbol of the nation’s resilience and identity, stands alongside. Ingeniously, the coat of arms is employed as a registration device, adding a touch of sophistication.

Flipping the banknote, the reverse side is adorned with the coat of arms and offers a view of the building where the Provisional Government of Vlora operated—now the esteemed National Museum of Independence. A stylized depiction of the room where Albania’s declaration of independence was forged, coupled with an image of the telegraph transmitting the historic news, commemorates a pivotal moment in history.

The banknote incorporates advanced security features. A windowed security thread shines with a demetalized “500” and another, unknown design, enhancing the note’s security profile. The watermark is a testament to authenticity, displaying the visage of Ismail Qemali alongside an electrotype “500” and the coat of arms.

This remarkable banknote was meticulously crafted by De La Rue, a prestigious printer hailing from London, England. The year of issuance, 2020, is inscribed on the note, and it is identified by the prefix “DB.” On January 17, 2022, it was introduced into circulation, marking its integration into the economy. The signatures of Gent Sejko, Governor, and Stefan Sevo, Director of the Department of Issue.

Members see complete information in Albania

Albania new 1,000 leke banknote

June 30, 2021 admin Europe

The 1,000 Leke (US$9.41; €8.09) banknote P-78; B-324, is adorned with a vibrant Green color palette and measures a stately 139 x 69 mm.

The front side of the banknote pays homage to Pjetër Bogdani (1625-1689), an illustrious figure in Albanian literature renowned for his writings and clerical contributions. His portrait is sourced from the frontispiece of his masterpiece “Çeta e profetëve” (Cuneus prophetarum), accompanied by the radiant symbol of the sun, which holds significance in his work.

Turning the banknote reveals a representation of Bogdani’s interpretation of the heliocentric system, showcasing his visionary mindset. The Catholic Church in Vau i Dejës further enhances the note’s cultural significance.

Incorporating robust security elements, a threaded strip reveals a safety thread with an unbroken dark line, where the values “1000 Lekë” and a stylized sun symbol are distinguished. These features serve to protect against counterfeiting and enhance the note’s authenticity. The watermark, a hallmark of genuine currency, unveils the portrait of the depicted figure, along with the nominal value of “1000 Lekë” and a stylized eagle symbol.

De La Rue, a prestigious printer based in London, England, is credited with the meticulous creation of this banknote. The year 2019 marks its issuance, and it bears the prefix “GB.” On June 30, 2021, this currency was introduced into circulation, signifying its integration into the economy. The authoritative signatures of Gent Sejko, Governor, and Stefan Sevo, Director of the Department of Issue, lend credibility to this exceptional banknote.

Members see complete information in Albania

Albania new 10,000 leke banknote

June 30, 2021 admin Europe

The 10,000 Leke (US$94.05; €80.86) banknote P-81; B-327, boasts a captivating Red hue and measures a substantial 160 x 72 mm.

The front side of the banknote is adorned with the portrait of Asdreni, prominently positioned on the left. The text “BANKA E SHQIPËRISË,” “DHJETË MIJË LEKË,” and the inscription “ASDRENI (Aleksandër Stavre Drenova) 1872 – 1947” pay tribute to this eminent figure.

Turning the banknote reveals a selection of figurative symbols reflecting the national flag and a verse from the national anthem: “Rreth flamurit të përbashkuar me një dëshir’ e një qëllim.” This resonates with the theme of national pride.

Incorporating robust security measures, the banknote employs a security thread that appears as a dark, unbroken line with a face value of 10,000 Lekë and a stylized pen. The safety thread transitions from green to purple, enhancing its security. A hologram silvery stripe on the left reveals the Bank of Albania’s logo, Asdreni’s portrait, the nominal value of 10,000 Lekë, and a book with a feather. Additionally, SPARK LIVE, an open book with a feather at the top right corner, dynamically shifts color from gold to green with an up-and-down visual effect. An iridescent stripe on the back, situated at the center, reveals the value of 10,000 Lekë with a glossy finish.

The watermark is a hallmark of authenticity, showcasing the portrait of the figure depicted on the banknote, the nominal value of 10,000 Lekë, and the stylized eagle symbol.

The distinguished De La Rue, hailing from London, England, is responsible for the impeccable creation of this banknote. With an issuance date in 2019, the banknote is identified by the prefix “SA.” On June 30, 2021, this currency was introduced into circulation, marking its integration into the economy. The signatures of Gent Sejko, Governor, and Stefan Sevo, Director of the Department of Issue, lend an authoritative touch to this exceptional banknote. The note’s theme, centered around the national anthem and its esteemed author Asdreni, adds depth and significance to its design.

Members see complete information in Albania