The Central Bank of Turkmenistan (Türkmenistanyň Merkezi banky) introduced modified polymer banknotes with denominations of 1, 5, and 10 manats, as well as a new 200 manat banknote, into circulation starting December 1, 2025. This issue is dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan gaining the status of a permanently neutral state, recognized by the UN on December 12, 1995. The year 2025 has been declared the International Year of Peace and Trust, which is reflected in the design of the banknotes with the emblem of this event. The emission continues the tradition: in 2020, the bank issued a series for the 25th anniversary of neutrality.

Reasons for the issue and historical context

Turkmenistan's status of permanent neutrality, enshrined in the 1995 Constitution, is recognized by the world community as a model of peaceful foreign policy. The commemorative issue of banknotes emphasizes the principles of peace, trust, and stability. The Central Bank stresses that the new banknotes not only update the monetary emission but also contribute to increasing confidence in the national currency. The design integrates the emblem of the International Year of Peace and Trust, placed on the obverse of the modified 1, 5, and 10 manat banknotes. This is the first series with a 200 manat denomination in Turkmenistan's history, reflecting the country's economic development.

Denominations, sizes, and design

The new banknotes are made of a polymer substrate, ensuring their durability. The series includes four denominations with different sizes and thematic elements reflecting the cultural and historical heritage of Turkmenistan.

1 manat: Size 120 × 60 mm. Obverse: portrait of Togrul Beg (Togrul beg Türkmeniň şekili). Reverse: Turkmenbashy Port, Türkmen Älem 52° E hologram. 5 manats: Size 126 × 63 mm. Obverse: portrait of Sultan Sanjar (Soltan Sanjar Türkmeniň şekili). Reverse: Independence and Neutrality Buildings (Garaşsyzlyk binasy, Bitaraplyk binasy). 10 manats: Size 132 × 66 mm. Obverse: portrait of Magtymguly Pyragy (Magtymguly Pyragyň şekili). Reverse: Building of the Central Bank of Turkmenistan (Türkmenistanyň Merkezi bankynyň binasy). The 200 manat banknote has a size of 150 × 75 mm and is predominantly green. The obverse features the "Arkadag" Monument («Arkadag» binasy), and the reverse shows the administrative building of the Khyakimlik (administration) of the city of Arkadag (Arkadag şäheriniň häkimliginiň binasy). The modified 1, 5, and 10 manat banknotes retain the basic design of the 2012 series but with the addition of the jubilee emblem. All banknotes feature the facsimile signature of the Chairman of the Central Bank Board, T. O. Myalikov, and the issue year 2025.

Security features and accessibility

The new banknotes are equipped with advanced anti-counterfeiting measures, making them among the most reliable in the region. Key elements include:

A transparent window with the portrait of a historical figure (for 1, 5, 10 manats) and a SPOTLIGHT™ holographic element on the 200 manat. A SPARK® Flow security feature in the form of a denomination frame, printed with colour-shifting ink from green to blue at different angles. Tactile marks for denomination identification by visually impaired persons. Improved visual signs of authenticity, such as microprinting and optically variable elements. The Central Bank recommends checking at least five security features to confirm authenticity. A detailed description is available on the official website www.cbt.tm.

Advantages of polymer substrate

Polymer banknotes are characterized by high resistance to external factors: contamination, wear, burning, and damage. This reduces the risk of counterfeiting and prolongs the service life of money, lowering printing costs. Turkmenistan became the first Central Asian country to fully transition to polymer for the commemorative series. Such materials are already used in over 30 countries worldwide, providing economy and environmental friendliness.

Implementation plan and status of previous issues

The new banknotes are mandatory for acceptance throughout Turkmenistan by all enterprises, organizations, and institutions, regardless of ownership, for all types of payments. They are introduced alongside existing ones, without withdrawing older issues. Banknotes from the 2009, 2012, 2014, 2017, and 2020 series remain legal tender. The Central Bank published a description on its website and in the press to inform the public. The emission will not affect monetary policy but will contribute to the modernization of cash circulation. Sources: official website of the Central Bank of Turkmenistan (www.cbt.tm), bank press releases, and publications CentralAsia.media, Zakon.kz, Yenisafak.

Vitalii Cherniuk (IBNS 13299-R)

CEO World Banknote Store