Abkhazia 25 Apsar Commemorative Banknote 2023: Design, Law, and National Symbolism
The Abkhazia 25-apsar commemorative banknote (B102a) was officially introduced into circulation on 22 May 2023, marking an important milestone in the country’s modern numismatic and monetary history. The issue was released by the National Bank of the Republic of Abkhazia in accordance with the Law of the Republic of Abkhazia dated 21 April 2008, No. 2012-c-IV, which regulates the issuance of commemorative and investment coins as well as commemorative banknotes within the republic.
Printed on paper by Goznak, the banknote measures 150 × 65 mm and carries a face value of 25 apsars, a denomination reserved exclusively for commemorative purposes rather than everyday circulation. The color palette is notably rich and symbolic, combining green, orange, red, blue, and yellow, reflecting both natural landscapes and traditional artistic motifs of Abkhazia.
The front side features Abkhaz-language inscriptions, the national coat of arms, a sailing ship symbolizing maritime heritage, and intricate traditional ornaments used as registration devices. A hawk in flight dominates the composition, accompanied by stars and a finely engraved hawk’s head in profile, representing vigilance, freedom, and strength—key themes in Abkhaz national identity.
The reverse side continues the historical narrative with two standing soldiers, one holding a sword and the other a rifle, symbolizing continuity between past and modern forms of defense. Decorative stars and traditional ornamentation are again integrated into the design, alongside a modern QR code, linking heritage with contemporary technology.
In terms of security, the note does not include a security thread, but it features a basket-weave pattern watermark, providing both protection and visual depth. As a whole, the 25-apsar commemorative banknote serves not only as a legal monetary instrument but also as a cultural statement—uniting history, sovereignty, and modern design in a single, carefully crafted issue.