The Haiti 20 Gourdes 2001 Commemorative Banknote
The Haiti 20 Gourdes 2001 Commemorative Banknote was issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Haiti’s first Constitution, adopted in 1801. This historic document was a major step in Haiti’s path to independence, laying the foundation for governance and national sovereignty. The banknote reflects Haiti’s commitment to democracy and its rich history while incorporating modern security features. Though it remains legal tender, its commemorative nature makes it an important piece for collectors.
Overview: The Front and Back of the Note
The front side (obverse) of the note prominently features Toussaint Louverture, the leader of the Haitian Revolution and one of the key figures behind the 1801 Constitution. His inclusion on the banknote honors his role in shaping Haiti’s early political and military history. The background includes historical motifs representing Haiti’s struggle for independence and early governance. Additionally, inscriptions marking the bicentennial of the Constitution of 1801 are placed on the note, reinforcing its commemorative significance.
The back side (reverse) of the note showcases an image of the Palais National (National Palace) in Port-au-Prince, which was the official residence of Haiti’s president before its destruction in the 2010 earthquake. This symbolizes the nation’s political heritage and governance. The design is further complemented by ornamental patterns inspired by Haitian culture, along with inscriptions commemorating the bicentennial celebration.
Design
Obverse (Front):
- A portrait of Toussaint Louverture, a national hero and architect of Haiti’s independence.
- Inscriptions marking the Bicentennial of the Constitution of 1801, emphasizing the historical significance of the note.
- Background elements depicting Haitian revolutionary symbols, reinforcing national pride.
- Denomination “20 Gourdes” displayed in both numerals and words.
Reverse (Back):
- An illustration of the Palais National (National Palace), representing Haiti’s government and democracy.
- Ornamental patterns and traditional Haitian designs, adding cultural depth.
- Commemorative text acknowledging the 200th anniversary of the Constitution of 1801.
Color Scheme:
- The Haiti 20 Gourdes 2001 banknote features a combination of blue, gray, and white tones.
- Blue and gray dominate the background, creating a classic, dignified aesthetic.
- The white elements provide contrast, enhancing readability and visual appeal.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the Haiti 20 Gourdes 2001 banknote are:
- Length: 156 mm
- Width: 67 mm
This size follows standard dimensions for Haitian banknotes, ensuring consistency in circulation while maintaining a distinctive appearance.
Security Features
The 2001 20 Gourdes commemorative note includes several security features to prevent counterfeiting and maintain authenticity:
- Watermark: A hidden image of Toussaint Louverture appears when the note is held up to light, confirming its authenticity.
- Security Thread: A thin embedded strip running vertically through the note, visible under light.
- Microprinting: Tiny, detailed inscriptions that are only legible under magnification, making counterfeiting difficult.
- Color-Shifting Ink: The denomination “20” changes color when tilted, enhancing security.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Features: Certain elements of the note, such as inscriptions and patterns, are only visible under UV light.
- Raised Printing (Intaglio): Key elements, such as the portrait of Toussaint Louverture and denomination numerals, are printed with raised ink for tactile verification.
These features ensure that the note remains both secure and visually distinct, protecting it from counterfeiting while maintaining its commemorative integrity.