the 2005 Bulgarian 20 Leva commemorative banknote
Bulgaria’s national currency, the Leva (plural: Leva), dates back to 1885, shortly after the country regained its autonomy. Over the decades, the Leva has undergone various reforms, designs, and anti-counterfeiting upgrades. In 2005, the Bulgarian National Bank issued a commemorative 20 Leva note to mark the 120th anniversary of the Leva’s introduction. Although it retained much of the standard 20 Leva note’s core design, the commemorative edition features special markings or overprints that highlight this important milestone in Bulgaria’s monetary history.
Overview of the Front (Obverse)
The obverse of this commemorative note largely follows the design elements of the standard 20 Leva banknote. It prominently features a portrait of Stefan Stambolov (1854–1895), a prominent Bulgarian statesman, revolutionary, and poet who played a significant role in the country’s early post-liberation period. Stambolov’s image appears toward the right side of the note, rendered in intricate linework to capture his likeness and give the note a sense of national pride.
Surrounding the portrait, you will find:
- Architectural and Ornamental Motifs: Arches, columns, and geometric shapes drawn from Bulgarian art and architectural heritage.
- Bulgarian Coat of Arms: Often included as a small emblem to underscore national sovereignty.
- Bank Title: “БЪЛГАРСКА НАРОДНА БАНКА” (Bulgarian National Bank) printed prominently, usually along the left margin or upper area.
- Denomination: The number “20” appears in large, bold numerals, while the words “ДВАДЕСЕТ ЛЕВА” confirm the face value.
- Commemorative Text: An overprint or inscription referencing “120 Years of the Leva” and the date “1885–2005” is often included, making it distinct from regular-issue notes.
Overview of the Back (Reverse)
On the reverse, the central focus is typically the Bulgarian National Bank building or another significant structure symbolic of Bulgaria’s financial history. Some editions also feature classical statues or allegorical figures, representing themes like prosperity, stability, or cultural heritage.
Key elements include:
- Architectural Depiction: The bank’s façade, columns, or a stylized arch that symbolizes financial strength and national heritage.
- Artistic Flourishes: Ornamental details and patterns that reflect Bulgarian motifs, possibly including floral or geometric designs.
- Additional Commemorative Elements: An emblem or small text referencing the 120th anniversary, reinforcing the note’s special status.
Color Scheme
The 2005 commemorative 20 Leva note features a predominantly purple and violet color palette, accented with touches of pink, light blue, and gold. This vibrant combination serves both aesthetic and anti-counterfeiting purposes. Some sections may appear more pinkish under certain lighting, while metallic inks or foils might give off a subtle sheen. The interplay of different hues creates a visually striking design that sets the note apart from lower denominations.
Dimensions
Bulgarian banknotes of this series typically adhere to a standard size to facilitate easy handling by machines and the public. The 20 Leva commemorative note usually measures around 132 mm in width and 72 mm in height (some references may list slightly different measurements, such as 129 x 69 mm). Regardless of minor variances, it follows the general Bulgarian National Bank format, ensuring compatibility with ATMs, currency counters, and other banknote processing equipment.
Security Features
To combat counterfeiting and maintain public confidence, the commemorative 20 Leva note incorporates several advanced security features:
- Watermark: When held to the light, a faint image of Stefan Stambolov’s portrait (matching the main obverse) becomes visible, showcasing delicate gradations in tone.
- Security Thread: A thin, embedded thread runs vertically through the note. Under certain lighting, it may appear as a metallic line or carry micro-printed text.
- Intaglio (Raised) Printing: Parts of the portrait, lettering, and numeric denomination are printed in raised ink, discernible by touch.
- Microprinting: Tiny text is embedded in the decorative borders and background patterns, readable only under magnification.
- See-Through Register: Specific shapes or patterns on the front align perfectly with those on the back, forming a complete image when the note is held up to light.
- UV Fluorescent Elements: Fibers and certain printed areas glow under ultraviolet light, revealing hidden patterns or numerals.
Circulation and Collectibility
Although it was legal tender and circulated alongside standard 20 Leva notes, the commemorative edition was produced in limited quantities. Many Bulgarians and collectors worldwide set these notes aside as souvenirs, given their special overprint marking 120 years of the Leva. Over time, notes that remained in circulation naturally wore out or were redeemed, reducing the supply of high-grade examples.
As a result, uncirculated or “mint condition” commemorative notes can command a premium on the collector’s market, especially if accompanied by documentation or presented in a commemorative folder. The combination of historical significance and limited issuance has helped maintain the note’s desirability among numismatists.
Rarity and Future Value
Compared to standard issues, this 20 Leva commemorative note is relatively scarce, though not exceedingly rare. Its availability will depend on how many were originally printed and how many remain in good condition. Notes with low serial numbers or unique printing errors can be especially coveted.
Looking ahead, the value of these commemorative notes may appreciate modestly, particularly as Bulgaria continues its economic development and possibly transitions to the euro in the future. Collectors seeking historically significant and visually appealing pieces will likely find this 20 Leva edition attractive, potentially driving up demand for pristine specimens over time.
The 2005 “120 Years of the Bulgarian Leva” 20 Leva commemorative banknote stands as both a functional piece of currency and a snapshot of Bulgaria’s monetary heritage. Featuring the portrait of Stefan Stambolov on the obverse, the Bulgarian National Bank building on the reverse, and an eye-catching purple color scheme, it embodies the pride and tradition of a currency that has endured for well over a century. Enhanced security features ensure its authenticity, while limited circulation enhances its allure among collectors. As a result, this commemorative note remains an appealing item for anyone interested in Bulgarian history, numismatics, or the broader evolution of European currencies—and it may well continue to gain value in the years ahead.