The 2000 Riels banknote commemorating the 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Between China and Cambodia (1958–2018)

The 2000 Riels banknote commemorating the 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Between China and Cambodia (1958–2018) was issued as a special limited edition by the National Bank of Cambodia. This note serves as a tribute to the strong bilateral relations between Cambodia and China, highlighting historical and cultural symbols of Cambodia.

• Front (Obverse): The obverse of the note prominently features Prasat Preah Vihear, an ancient Khmer temple that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple symbolizes Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance. Additionally, a Naga (mythical serpent) statue is visible in the foreground, a traditional representation of protection in Cambodian culture.

• Back (Reverse): The reverse side of the note showcases a Cambodian farmer harvesting rice, symbolizing the nation’s strong agricultural heritage and its reliance on rice cultivation as a key economic sector. In the background, the Angkor Wat temple is illustrated, one of the most famous and sacred landmarks in Cambodia, reinforcing national identity and pride.

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Design Elements

The design of this commemorative banknote incorporates traditional and historical themes alongside modern security features, ensuring both authenticity and collectibility.

Obverse (Front) Design:

• Central to the design is the Prasat Preah Vihear temple, an important Khmer heritage site that represents Cambodia’s historical grandeur.
• A Naga serpent can be seen at the lower left, symbolizing mythology and protection.
• The denomination “2000” is displayed in Khmer numerals, accompanied by intricate decorative patterns.
• The serial number appears in red ink on the right side of the note.
• The upper section features inscriptions in Khmer script, identifying the issuing authority.

Reverse (Back) Design:

• The primary image is a Cambodian farmer harvesting rice, symbolizing Cambodia’s agricultural traditions.
• Angkor Wat, the most iconic Khmer temple, is depicted in the background.
• The note bears an inscription in Khmer, English, and Chinese, signifying its diplomatic theme.
• A special stamp or emblem marking the “60th Anniversary of Cambodia-China Diplomatic Relations” is included on the right side.

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Color Scheme

The note exhibits an elegant blend of warm colors, including beige, brown, orange, and green, which complement the intricate designs and provide a visually appealing aesthetic.

• The obverse features light brown and gold tones, emphasizing the historical and architectural grandeur of Preah Vihear.
• The reverse is more vibrant, with shades of green and gold, reflecting Cambodia’s lush agricultural landscapes and its ties to nature.

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Dimensions

The width and length of the 2000 Riels commemorative note are approximately:

• Width: 146 mm
• Length: 68 mm

This size is standard for Cambodian banknotes and makes it easily recognizable.

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Security Features

To prevent counterfeiting, the Cambodia 2000 Riels 2018 Commemorative Banknote incorporates several advanced security elements:

1. Watermark: A watermark of King Norodom Sihanouk’s portrait is embedded into the paper, becoming visible when held against the light.
2. Security Thread: A thin metallic security thread runs vertically through the note, which can be seen under a light source.
3. Microprinting: Tiny, intricate text is printed on different sections of the note, only visible under magnification.
4. Latent Image: Certain elements of the design change appearance when viewed at different angles.
5. UV Features: Ultraviolet-sensitive ink is used in specific areas, revealing hidden patterns under UV light.
6. Raised Print: Certain areas, such as inscriptions and the temple design, have raised printing that can be felt by touch.

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Circulation and Collectibility

As a commemorative issue, this 2000 Riels note was not intended for general circulation but was primarily released for collectors and special occasions. The limited-edition nature of the note makes it highly sought after by numismatists, particularly those interested in Southeast Asian currency, historical events, and diplomatic milestones.

• Issued by: The National Bank of Cambodia
• Year of Issue: 2018
• Reason for Issue: 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Between Cambodia and China
• Circulation: Not meant for general use; mainly a collector’s item.
• Rarity: Due to its limited release, the note is relatively rare and valued higher than its face value in collector markets.