The Belarus 50,000 Rubles Year 2000 – “Inclusion of Mir Castle in the World Heritage List of UNESCO” Commemorative Issue
The Belarusian 50,000 rubles banknote issued in the year 2000 is a significant piece of numismatic history, commemorating the inclusion of Mir Castle in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This commemorative note is highly valued among collectors due to its limited issuance and historical importance. The design showcases Mir Castle (Mirski Zamok), a remarkable architectural masterpiece located in Grodno Province, Belarus. The banknote’s artistic and security elements highlight the cultural heritage of Belarus, making it a sought-after piece in numismatic circles.
Overview of the Banknote Design
The front (obverse) side of the 50,000 rubles banknote prominently features Mir Castle, a historical fortress constructed in the 16th century. This side also includes various artistic patterns, security features, and the denomination written in Belarusian Cyrillic script. The serial number and other essential banknote details are positioned in designated areas.
The back (reverse) side of the note showcases architectural elements and details from Mir Castle, such as the castle’s arched entrances, stone walls, and historic key motifs. These artistic elements enhance the aesthetic appeal of the banknote and reinforce its commemorative nature.
Inclusion of Mir Castle in the UNESCO World Heritage List
Mir Castle was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 due to its exceptional cultural and historical significance. Built in the early 16th century, the castle is a rare example of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architectural influences in Eastern Europe. It represents a unique blend of different styles, reflecting the multicultural history of Belarus.
The castle was originally constructed by the Ilyinich family before being passed on to the Radziwiłł family, who expanded and enhanced its grandeur. Over the centuries, Mir Castle has withstood numerous wars and periods of neglect but has been restored to preserve its historical value. The UNESCO designation was a significant milestone, recognizing its global importance and ensuring its protection for future generations.
The 50,000 rubles banknote was issued to commemorate this recognition and highlight the importance of Belarusian cultural heritage on the world stage.
Commemorative Banknote Serial Number Range
This commemorative banknote was issued in a limited series, making it rare and highly desirable among collectors. The serial numbers for this special issue range from:
- aa0000001 – aa0001000
Only 1,000 pieces of this commemorative issue were released, adding to its exclusivity and long-term value in the numismatic market.
Detailed Design Elements
Obverse (Front) Design:
- A detailed engraving of Mir Castle in blue-gray tones.
- The denomination “50,000” is prominently displayed in the top-left and bottom-right corners.
- The inscription in Belarusian “ПЯЦЬДЗЕСЯТ ТЫСЯЧ РУБЛЁЎ” (Fifty Thousand Rubles) is written at the bottom.
- A decorative border pattern enhances the design.
- The National Bank of Belarus (БIЛЕТ НАЦЫЯНАЛЬНАГА БАНКА РЭСПУБЛIКI БЕЛАРУСЬ) is printed at the top.
Reverse (Back) Design:
- Features architectural details from Mir Castle, including:
- A grand arched entrance.
- Ornate stonework of the castle walls.
- A stylized key symbolizing the historical importance of the site.
- Additional decorative geometric patterns related to Belarusian architectural heritage.
Color Scheme:
- The banknote’s primary color is a combination of blue, gray, and green hues, giving it a classic and sophisticated look.
Dimensions of the Banknote
- Width: 150 mm
- Length: 74 mm
This standard size makes it easily recognizable and consistent with other Belarusian banknotes issued during the same period.
Security Features
To prevent counterfeiting, the Belarus 50,000 rubles (2000 issue) includes several security features, such as:
- Watermark – A security watermark featuring a distinctive pattern or emblem embedded in the paper.
- Security Thread – A thin embedded metallic strip running vertically through the note.
- Microprinting – Small, fine text that is difficult to replicate using standard printing techniques.
- UV Elements – Certain design elements become visible under ultraviolet light.
- Raised Printing – The denomination and key features of the design are slightly raised for tactile recognition.
- Holographic Elements – Reflective ink features for additional authentication.
Circulation and Collectibility
- This commemorative issue was not meant for general circulation but rather for collectors and historical preservation purposes.
- Because only 1,000 notes were printed, it is considered a highly collectible and rare piece.
- Many collectors value this banknote due to its historical significance and limited availability.
- It is often found in private collections, museums, and numismatic auctions.
Rarity and Future Value Prediction
- Given its extremely low print quantity (1,000 pieces) and historical importance, this banknote is very rare in the numismatic market.
- Over time, the value of this banknote is expected to increase, especially among collectors of Eastern European and Belarusian currency.
- Current market prices range from $500 to $1,500, depending on condition and demand.
- In the next 10-20 years, its value could double or even triple, making it a strong investment for collectors.
The Belarus 50,000 rubles (2000 issue) is a historically significant commemorative banknote that honors Mir Castle’s inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Its limited edition status (only 1,000 pieces), elegant design, and rich historical significance make it highly valuable to collectors. With its advanced security features, aesthetic appeal, and rarity, this banknote remains a remarkable piece of numismatic history with strong future investment potential.