Nepal 10 Rupees King Gyanendra Commemorative Banknote – Year 2002

In 2002, the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) issued a special 10 Rupees commemorative banknote to mark the coronation of King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev. This banknote was introduced following his ascension to the throne after the tragic Nepalese Royal Massacre in 2001, which led to the death of King Birendra and most of the royal family. The issuance of this note symbolized a new era in Nepal’s monarchy and governance.

The front side of the banknote featured a portrait of King Gyanendra, wearing the royal crown and traditional ceremonial attire. The background was designed with intricate patterns and cultural motifs reflecting Nepalese heritage. The note also carried the official signature of the Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank at the time.

The reverse side of the banknote displayed an image of Mount Everest, Nepal’s most iconic natural landmark, alongside traditional Nepalese designs. The incorporation of Everest symbolized Nepal’s national pride and strength.

Why Was This Banknote Issued?

This commemorative 10 Rupees note was issued to mark the official coronation of King Gyanendra, which took place on June 4, 2001. The note was intended to:

• Commemorate the transition of power after the tragic events of the Royal Massacre of June 1, 2001, which saw the assassination of King Birendra and his family.
• Celebrate King Gyanendra’s coronation, signifying continuity and stability in Nepal’s constitutional monarchy.
• Serve as a historical record of this significant political transition in Nepal.

Unlike some commemorative banknotes that are purely for collectors, this 10 Rupees note was also legal tender, meaning it was circulated for daily transactions. However, due to its historical significance, many collectors preserved it rather than using it in regular trade.

How Many Pieces Were Printed?

The Nepal Rastra Bank issued approximately 5 million pieces of the 2002 King Gyanendra 10 Rupees commemorative banknote. While this was a relatively large issuance for a commemorative note, it remained in high demand among collectors, historians, and royalists.

Technology and Security Features

To prevent counterfeiting and ensure durability, the 2002 Nepal 10 Rupees King Gyanendra commemorative banknote incorporated various security and printing technologies, including:

• Watermark – A watermark of King Gyanendra’s portrait was embedded in the paper for authenticity verification.
• Security Thread – A thin, embedded security thread running vertically through the note to prevent counterfeiting.
• Intaglio Printing – Raised printing on certain areas, providing a unique tactile feel.
• Microprinting – Tiny, intricate inscriptions that were difficult to reproduce without advanced printing technology.
• UV Features – Certain parts of the note were printed with ultraviolet (UV) ink, visible only under UV light for authentication.

The 2002 Nepal 10 Rupees King Gyanendra commemorative banknote was an important issue that marked a historic transition in Nepal’s monarchy. With 5 million pieces printed, it remains a valuable collector’s item, reflecting both a tragic and defining moment in Nepalese history. The banknote’s design, security features, and symbolic significance make it an essential piece for numismatists and those interested in Nepal’s royal legacy.