On April 15, 2026, the Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan (CBA) officially announced the launch of production and subsequent introduction into circulation of a redesigned 100 Manat banknote. The new banknote is dated 2026 and will bear the series designation AZN100.3.

Date of Issuance and Preparation

The updated banknote will enter circulation on July 15, 2026. Financial institutions, banks, and cash processing systems in Azerbaijan have already begun technical adjustments to equipment for seamless operation with the new design. Leading up to the issuance, the Central Bank is conducting the necessary preparations to ensure a smooth transition.

Modern Security Features

The primary goal of the redesign is to significantly enhance the level of protection against counterfeiting. The banknote is equipped with the latest technologies available in international practice:

  • A color-shifting holographic element with a three-dimensional micro-mirror effect;

  • The "Spark Flow Prime" dynamic element — a Manat symbol that changes color and creates a dynamic light effect;

  • A watermark visible through light, featuring the State Emblem of Azerbaijan and the denomination;

  • A security thread;

  • Microprinting (microtext);

  • Relief printing (intaglio);

  • Other advanced technologies, including nano- and microtechnologies. Particular attention is paid to accessibility: the obverse side features tactile marks (raised lines along the edges), allowing visually impaired persons to identify the denomination and authenticity of the banknote by touch.

Updated Design

The banknote maintains the overall concept of the previous series but has been given a more modern appearance. The reverse side is executed in a vertical format, aligning with current global currency design trends. The theme remains "Economy and Growth" (Economy and Development). The obverse side features the signature of the Chairman of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, Taleh Tahir oghlu Kazimov, in the upper left corner. The color palette is composed of lilac-purple tones with the addition of modern geometric elements, making the banknote visually more contemporary and appealing.

Parallel Circulation with the Old Version

An important aspect is that the new 100 Manat 2026 banknote will be issued alongside the current version. Both banknotes will have equal legal tender status and will be accepted without any restrictions or withdrawal deadlines. This avoids abrupt changes in currency circulation and ensures convenience for the public and businesses.

Part of a Large-Scale Modernization Program

The introduction of the updated 100 Manat banknote is a logical continuation of the comprehensive national currency modernization program. Since 2021, the Central Bank of Azerbaijan has successfully introduced updated banknotes in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 Manats. Each new banknote receives enhanced security, modern technology, and a refreshed design under the unified concept of "Independent Azerbaijan." Such regular updates are standard practice for central banks worldwide. They counter counterfeiting, implement innovations, and maintain high public confidence in the national currency.

Significance for Collectors

For banknote collectors, the new 100 Manat 2026 (AZN100.3) will be an essential addition to their collections. Currently, only official specimens with "NÜMUNƏ" / "SPECIMEN" overprints are available. After July 15, 2026, real banknotes will appear in circulation, allowing collectors to add them to their sets. World Banknote Store closely monitors all stages of the new banknote's introduction. We will promptly inform clients when the updated 100 Manat becomes available for collectors and provide detailed information on its design and security features.

Vitalii Cherniuk - CEO World Banknote Store