The Djibouti 40 Francs 2017 Commemorative Banknote
The Djibouti 40 Francs 2017 Commemorative Banknote was issued to mark the 40th anniversary of Djibouti’s independence from France, which was achieved on June 27, 1977. This special banknote celebrates Djibouti’s economic progress, natural heritage, and national identity, blending artistic design with advanced security features. While legal tender, the note was released primarily as a commemorative item, making it a valuable piece for collectors.
Overview: The Front and Back of the Note
The front side (obverse) of the banknote features a whale shark swimming among coral reefs, highlighting Djibouti’s rich marine biodiversity and commitment to environmental conservation. The background is filled with colorful coral and fish, adding to the oceanic theme. The denomination “40 Francs” is prominently displayed in the top right and bottom left corners. The inscription “40ème Anniversaire de l’Indépendance” (40th Anniversary of Independence) reinforces the note’s commemorative purpose. The serial number appears in red on the left side.
The back side (reverse) showcases a port and construction cranes, symbolizing Djibouti’s economic and industrial growth. This imagery reflects the country’s role as a major trade hub in East Africa, with its strategic location along the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The Djibouti map is printed in gold on the right side, signifying national unity and territorial identity. The anniversary logo, with the words “40e Jubilé d’Émeraude”, is placed on the left, emphasizing the significance of the occasion.
Design
Obverse (Front):
- A whale shark swimming in coral reefs, representing Djibouti’s marine diversity and environmental conservation efforts.
- The denomination “40 Francs” displayed in bold numerals in the top right and bottom left corners.
- The text “40ème Anniversaire de l’Indépendance”, marking the 40th year of Djibouti’s sovereignty.
- A detailed security background with marine motifs, including corals and small fish.
- The signature of the Governor of the Central Bank of Djibouti, confirming authenticity.
- The serial number in red ink on the left side, ensuring uniqueness.
Reverse (Back):
- A detailed illustration of Djibouti’s port and construction cranes, signifying industrialization and economic expansion.
- A gold-printed map of Djibouti, reinforcing national identity.
- The anniversary emblem with “40e Jubilé d’Émeraude”, celebrating 40 years of independence.
- A multi-patterned background with intricate geometric shapes, enhancing security and aesthetics.
- The denomination “40” displayed in Arabic (top left) and Latin numerals (bottom right), ensuring bilingual representation.
Color Scheme:
- The Djibouti 40 Francs 2017 note features a vibrant color palette that includes green, blue, gold, and red hues.
- The front side predominantly uses blue and green, symbolizing the ocean and marine life.
- The back side integrates shades of gray, gold, and beige, representing urban development and national progress.
- Red highlights are used for serial numbers and specific text elements, adding contrast.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the Djibouti 40 Francs 2017 commemorative banknote are:
- Length: 140 mm
- Width: 75 mm
This size is consistent with other Djiboutian banknotes, ensuring practicality in handling while making the note distinctive as a commemorative issue.
Security Features
To prevent counterfeiting and ensure authenticity, the 2017 Djibouti 40 Francs commemorative note includes several advanced security features:
- Watermark: A hidden image visible when the note is held against light, confirming authenticity.
- Security Thread: A thin metallic strip embedded vertically into the note, adding another layer of security.
- Microprinting: Tiny, precise text that is only readable under magnification, making it difficult to replicate.
- Color-Shifting Ink: The denomination “40” changes color when tilted, providing a visual security element.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Features: Special patterns and markings become visible under UV light, further verifying the note’s legitimacy.
- Raised Ink (Intaglio Printing): Select elements, including the text and certain images, are printed with raised ink, allowing for tactile verification.
These security features make the note highly resistant to counterfeiting, ensuring its reliability in circulation and collectibility.
Circulation and Collectibility
The Djibouti 40 Francs 2017 commemorative note was issued in limited quantities, making it a valuable collector’s item:
- Limited Edition: The note was produced in a restricted print run, increasing its rarity.
- Collector Demand: Due to its historical significance, unique design, and enhanced security features, the note is highly sought after by numismatists.
- Market Value: Uncirculated notes in pristine condition often fetch higher prices in the numismatic market.
- Legal Tender: While valid for transactions, many individuals prefer to keep it as a commemorative item rather than spending it.
This 40 Francs banknote is more than just currency—it is a symbol of Djibouti’s independence, economic growth, and natural beauty. It successfully blends artistry, security, and national pride, making it an important piece in Djibouti’s numismatic history.