The Central Bank of the Comoros (BCC) is introducing modernized banknotes with face values of 5,000 and 10,000 Comorian francs into circulation. This update does not involve a currency replacement or a radical change in design; rather, it is primarily aimed at strengthening protection against counterfeiting. The banknotes maintain their general appearance to ensure convenience in daily use.

Design and Key Banknote Elements

The modernized banknotes retain the previous design with added security features. The 5,000 franc banknote (purple, size 138 × 73 mm):

  • Obverse: French text; emblem of the Union of the Comoros in optically variable ink (gold-to-purple OVI); Kartala volcano crater on Grande Comore island; President Saïd Mohamed Cheikh; a poem; pinwheel registration element.

  • Reverse: Arabic and French text; pinwheel registration element; baobab tree; shoreline; nautilus; a poem by M'baé Trambwé.

The 10,000 franc banknote (yellow, size 144 × 73 mm):

  • Obverse: French text; emblem of the Union of the Comoros in optically variable ink (gold-to-purple OVI); Friday Mosque in Moroni; Grand Mufti Al-Habib Said Omar Bin Soumeit.

  • Reverse: Arabic and French text; green vanilla pods; green sea turtle; ylang-ylang flowers; a poem by M'baé Trambwé.

The banknotes are printed on a paper substrate and feature the signature of BCC Governor Dr. Younoussa Imani. Printer — Banque de France.

Key Changes and Security Elements

The changes primarily concern security features. More effective safety measures have been integrated, including a holographic stripe, the OVI emblem, a solid security thread with BCC overprint, and a watermark (crescent with BCC and electrotype stars). Certain elements create visual effects when tilted or viewed through light.

Co-circulation and Recommendations

Old and new banknotes will circulate in parallel and remain valid without restrictions. For a detailed look at the new security features, it is recommended to visit the official website of the Central Bank of the Comoros. This modernization meets international standards and enhances the security of monetary circulation in the Union of the Comoros.

Vitalii Cherniuk (IBNS 13299-R) - CEO World Banknote Store