On April 15, 2025, the Banco de Cabo Verde officially introduced new 1,000 and 2,000 escudo banknotes, marking a significant step in modernizing the national currency. These banknotes, designated as B224a (1,000 escudos) and B225a (2,000 escudos), retain key features of their predecessors (B219 and B220, respectively) but feature updated designs, enhanced security elements, and symbolism that reflects Cape Verde’s cultural heritage. The release of these banknotes is not only a technical update but also a means to honor prominent cultural figures of Cape Verde, such as composer Codé di Dona and singer Cesária Évora.

1,000 Escudo Banknote: Honoring Codé di Dona

The new 1,000 escudo banknote (equivalent to approximately US$11) measures 136 x 66 mm and is made of paper. Its design is executed in a blue, purple, green, yellow, and pink color scheme, making it vibrant and distinctive. The front features composer and musician Gregório Vaz, better known as Codé di Dona, playing the accordion, an instrument emblematic of the funaná genre, a traditional Cape Verdean music style. Additionally, an outline map of Santiago island’s municipalities is included, highlighting the musician’s birthplace. Images of the seashore and an embossed bird add aesthetic appeal to the note.

The back of the banknote depicts a dove in flight, symbolizing peace and freedom, alongside a musician holding a ferrinho, a traditional funaná instrument. The sun and flying doves complete the composition, emphasizing connections to nature and culture. An accordion, used as a registration device, appears on both sides of the note, providing additional anti-counterfeiting protection.

Security Features

The banknote incorporates updated security features that meet modern standards. The holographic patch from the previous issue has been replaced with a holographic stripe featuring demetalized doves, accordions, and musical notes. A 4-mm windowed security thread includes demetalized text “BCV 1000” and a vine design. The watermark, depicting Codé di Dona with an electrotype vine and Cornerstones elements, further enhances security. The note is printed by the renowned British company De La Rue, ensuring high-quality production.

The banknote is dated July 10, 2024, and was introduced into circulation on April 15, 2025. It bears the signatures of Lopes and Santos, with the prefix FN.

2,000 Escudo Banknote: Tribute to Cesária Évora

The 2,000 escudo banknote (equivalent to approximately US$22) measures 142 x 71 mm and is also made of paper. Its color palette includes peach, light blue, brownish-red, and green tones. The front is dedicated to the legendary singer Cesária Évora, known as the “Barefoot Diva” and a global ambassador of the morna genre. The note features two portraits of Évora: one as a young woman and one in her later years, symbolizing her enduring contribution to Cape Verdean culture. Musical notes on a staff and an embossed turtle add uniqueness to the design. Two footprints, used as a registration device, reference Évora’s nickname and her deep connection to her homeland.

The back showcases a violin, associated with the morna genre, and a sun over the ocean, symbolizing the beauty of Cape Verde’s islands. A vertical line of “MORNA2000” microtext to the right of the main image is a new design element, distinguishing this note from its predecessor.

Security Features

Like the 1,000 escudo banknote, the 2,000 escudo note is equipped with advanced security features. A holographic stripe includes demetalized images of a microphone and musical notes, reflecting the musical theme. A 4-mm windowed security thread with demetalized text “BCV 2000” and a microphone design provides additional protection. The watermark, featuring Cesária Évora with an electrotype microphone and Cornerstones elements, meets high security standards. The note is also printed by De La Rue.

The banknote is dated August 27, 2024, and was introduced into circulation on April 15, 2025. It bears the signatures of Lopes and Santos, with the prefix GX.

Cultural Significance and Economic Role

The release of these new banknotes is not merely a currency update but a significant step in preserving and promoting Cape Verde’s cultural heritage. Codé di Dona and Cesária Évora are not just names on the notes but symbols of the funaná and morna musical traditions, integral to the country’s identity. Elements such as the Santiago island map, ferrinho, violin, and footprints underscore the deep connection between culture, history, and modernity in Cape Verde.

Economically, the updated banknotes with enhanced security features strengthen trust in the national currency and make counterfeiting more difficult. The introduction of these notes may also spark interest among collectors and tourists, positively impacting the country’s economy.

Conclusion

The new 1,000 and 2,000 escudo banknotes of Cape Verde, introduced on April 15, 2025, combine modern security technologies, refined design, and deep respect for cultural heritage. They serve not only as a means of payment but also as a narrative of the country’s story through the images of its iconic figures and symbols. This release exemplifies how currency can be both an economic tool and a carrier of national identity.

Vitalii Cherniuk (IBNS 13299-R)

CEO World Banknote Store