The Armenia 2001 50,000 Dram commemorative banknote

The Armenia 2001 50,000 Dram commemorative banknote was issued to mark the 1700th anniversary of Christianity in Armenia, celebrating the country’s historic adoption of Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD—making it the first nation in the world to do so. This beautifully crafted banknote features rich religious, cultural, and historical elements that reflect Armenia’s deep Christian heritage.

Overview of the Front and Back Note

The obverse (front) side of the banknote showcases the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. A golden medallion with the year 1700 is prominently displayed, symbolizing the anniversary. The intricate architectural details of the cathedral’s domes and towers highlight the spiritual importance of the site.

The reverse (back) side features a stylized depiction of King Tiridates III and Saint Gregory the Illuminator, both crucial figures in Armenia’s conversion to Christianity. They are shown holding a church, representing the establishment of the Christian faith in Armenia. The backdrop includes Mount Ararat, a sacred symbol in Armenian history, and an elaborate khachkar (cross-stone), emphasizing Armenia’s tradition of stone-carved crosses.

Design Features

Obverse (Front)

• Etchmiadzin Cathedral – The main design element, representing the heart of Armenian Christianity.
• Golden Medallion – Features the year 1700, marking the anniversary of Armenia’s Christianization.
• Intricate Architectural Arch – Frames the cathedral, adding depth and elegance.
• Denomination “50,000” – Displayed in large red numerals at the bottom right.
• Stylized Columns – Enhance the religious and historic theme.
• Text in Armenian – Reads “1700 Years of Christianity in Armenia”.

Reverse (Back)

• King Tiridates III & St. Gregory the Illuminator – Central figures in Armenia’s conversion to Christianity.
• Church Representation – Symbolizes the founding of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
• Mount Ararat – A recurring motif in Armenian currency and national pride.
• Khachkar (Cross-Stone) – Traditional Armenian stone carvings, symbolizing faith and endurance.
• Commemorative Insignia – Displays the 1700-year anniversary emblem (301-2001 AD).
• Denomination “50,000” – Repeated multiple times in a decorative pattern.

Color Scheme

• The front side features warm earthy tones, including brown, gold, and beige, symbolizing history and spirituality.
• The back side incorporates muted greens, grays, and browns, blending with the natural imagery of Mount Ararat.

Dimensions

• Width: 160 mm
• Length: 72 mm

This size makes the banknote larger than standard Armenian notes, emphasizing its commemorative significance.

Security Features

The 2001 50,000 Dram banknote is equipped with multiple high-tech security elements to ensure authenticity:

1. Holographic Strip – A vertical blue security strip on the left side features denominational values and microtext.
2. Watermark – A portrait of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, visible when held against light.
3. Color-Shifting Ink – The number “50,000” changes color when tilted.
4. UV Features – Special design elements appear under ultraviolet light, revealing hidden details.
5. Raised Printing – Tactile features help visually impaired individuals identify the note.
6. Microtext – Tiny inscriptions that are difficult to replicate.
7. Security Thread – A thin embedded strip runs through the note, visible in transparency.

Circulation and Collectibility

This commemorative issue was not meant for general circulation but was released as a collectible by the Central Bank of Armenia in 2001.

• It remains legal tender, but due to its high denomination, it is rarely used in everyday transactions.
• Collectors highly prize this banknote for its historical and religious significance.
• Many examples are uncirculated and stored in protective cases.
• Due to its limited mintage, it is a highly valuable and sought-after piece in numismatic markets.