Updating Kazakhstan's Currency Series

The National Bank of Kazakhstan continues to modernize the country's monetary system by introducing a new series of banknotes that reflect the historical and cultural heritage of the Kazakh people. On November 15, 2023, the new family of banknotes was officially unveiled, with a phased introduction planned from 2023 to 2025. Among the new issues, special attention is drawn to the 2,000 tenge banknote, which features unique design elements that emphasize Kazakhstan's national identity.

This banknote will be part of a series that includes denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 20,000 tenge. The new banknotes will circulate alongside previous issues for at least one year, after which older series will be gradually withdrawn.

Design and Features of the 2,000 Tenge Banknote

Main Colors and Design Elements

The 2,000 tenge banknote is designed in shades of green, blue, and purple. Its design is inspired by the art of the Saka culture, which has deep roots in the history of the Kazakh steppes.

Obverse (front side):

  • Vertical orientation – a modern trend in banknote design, also used in other countries.
  • Inscriptions in the Kazakh language.
  • Profile of an antelope’s head – a symbol of Kazakhstan’s fauna.
  • An ornament of unknown origin, emphasizing the uniqueness of the style.
  • Detail of the "Tree of Life" – a sacred image symbolizing the connection of generations. This detail is inspired by the headdress of the "Golden Man" (3rd–4th century BCE), found in the Issyk burial mound.
  • DNA spiral – a reference to heritage and national development.
  • National emblem of Kazakhstan.

Reverse (back side):

  • Inscriptions in the Kazakh language.
  • Contours of hills and a lake forming the infinity symbol.
  • A golden stylized figure of a saiga – one of the characteristic animals of the Central Asian steppes.
  • An image of four standing saiga antelopes (Saiga tatarica) – a symbol of nature conservation.
  • A circular Kazakh symbol, completing the design.

Security Elements

The security of banknotes has always been a key priority for the National Bank of Kazakhstan. The new design includes several modern security features to prevent counterfeiting:

  • Windowed security thread with demetalized text.
  • Watermark featuring the Samruk bird, complemented by the electrotype number "2000."
  • High-quality paper, custom-made (BFoNBK).

Size and Issuance Details

  • Size: 135 x 70 mm.
  • Signature: Suleymanov.
  • Year of issuance: 2024.

The Significance of the New Design for Kazakhstan

Updating the national currency is not just a technical measure but also an important cultural step. The introduction of the new banknote series demonstrates Kazakhstan’s commitment to preserving national traditions by incorporating elements of ancient art into a modern context.

Historical Context of the "Golden Man"

One of the central motifs of the new banknote’s design is the depiction of the "Golden Man" – an archaeological find discovered in the Issyk burial mound in 1969. This was the grave of a young warrior buried in luxurious golden armor. His headdress was adorned with the sacred symbol of the "Tree of Life" with a bird, symbolizing the connection between worlds. This is one of the most important artifacts representing the heritage of the Saka culture, which existed on the territory of modern Kazakhstan more than 2,000 years ago.

Symbolism of the Saiga

Another important element is the saiga – a rare antelope that inhabits the Kazakh steppes. Its inclusion in the banknote’s design highlights Kazakhstan’s efforts to preserve wildlife and biodiversity. These unique animals, which survived the Ice Age, are now endangered, and the banknote serves as a reminder of the need to protect them.

Conclusion

The introduction of the new 2,000 tenge banknote is an important step for Kazakhstan, combining modern security technologies with a rich historical context. The use of Saka culture symbols, elements of nature, and innovative security mechanisms makes this banknote not just a means of payment but also a part of the country's cultural heritage.

With the gradual introduction of the new banknote series, Kazakhstan’s national currency will become even more secure, aesthetically appealing, and aligned with modern international standards.

Vitalii Cherniuk,

Vice President of IBNS Ukraine (#13299-R)

CEO of World Banknote Store