The Transnistrian 1 Ruble banknote (2019 commemorative issue)
The Transnistrian Republican Bank issued the Transnistrian 1 Ruble banknote (2019 commemorative issue) to mark the 25th anniversary of the Transnistrian ruble. This special edition note highlights historical figures and landmarks significant to Transnistria’s heritage while incorporating modern security features.
The note is visually distinct from regular circulation rubles, featuring intricate designs and a color scheme that emphasizes its commemorative status.
Design
Obverse (Front)
The front of the banknote prominently features Alexander Vasilyevich Suvorov (1730–1800), a renowned Russian military general. Suvorov played a crucial role in Russian military history and is considered a foundational figure in the establishment of Tiraspol, the capital of Transnistria.
Other notable design elements on the obverse include:
- A decorative background pattern incorporating traditional motifs.
- A medal and star insignia associated with Suvorov’s military achievements.
- The denomination “1 Ruble” written in Cyrillic (“ОДИН РУБЛЬ”).
- The inscription “Суворов А.В. 1730-1800” marking his lifespan.
- The Bank of Transnistria’s emblem and security watermark integration.
Reverse (Back)
The back of the note showcases an image of the Bender Fortress, a historic 16th-century fortress located in the city of Bender, Transnistria. This fortress has deep historical significance, having been a strategic military site throughout various wars.
Additional elements on the reverse include:
- A modern industrial complex, symbolizing Transnistria’s economic development.
- A commemorative inscription celebrating “25 лет Приднестровскому рублю” (“25 Years of the Transnistrian Ruble”).
- A fine-line guilloche pattern providing extra security.
Color Scheme
The note features a muted pastel palette with a dominant blend of beige, brown, and greenish hues. The color transitions are soft, and the intricate designs are rendered in fine detail, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and security features.
Dimensions
The width and length of the banknote are:
- Width: 120 mm
- Length: 60 mm These dimensions are consistent with other banknotes issued by Transnistria, making them easily recognizable and compatible with existing financial systems.
Security Features
The 1 Ruble 2019 commemorative note includes several advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting, such as:
- Watermark – A visible watermark is embedded in the paper, featuring Suvorov’s portrait when held against the light.
- Security Thread – A thin security thread is woven into the banknote to ensure authenticity.
- Microprinting – Tiny, hard-to-replicate text appears on certain parts of the note, visible only under magnification.
- UV Features – Special ink elements glow under ultraviolet light, revealing hidden details.
- Embossed Printing – Parts of the design, especially the numerals and inscriptions, are slightly raised to provide a tactile security feature.
- Fine Guilloche Patterns – Complex and interwoven line designs make counterfeiting extremely difficult.
Circulation and Collectibility
This commemorative 1 Ruble note was issued in limited numbers, primarily intended for collectors and numismatic enthusiasts rather than widespread daily use. While it remains legal tender in Transnistria, many of these notes are preserved in private collections due to their historical significance.
The 25-year milestone of the Transnistrian ruble makes this issue particularly valuable to collectors specializing in post-Soviet or Eastern European banknotes. The note’s unique design and historical relevance add to its desirability in the global numismatic market.