The Nepal Rastra Bank issued a special 25-rupee commemorative banknote
the Nepal Rastra Bank issued a special 25-rupee commemorative banknote, in 1997, to celebrate the Silver Jubilee (25 years) of King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev’s accession to the throne. King Birendra ascended the throne on January 31, 1972, and his rule was marked by efforts to modernize Nepal while maintaining its deep-rooted traditions.
This commemorative issue was designed to honor his reign, featuring royal imagery, historical architecture, and Nepalese cultural symbols. Unlike standard banknotes, this 25-rupee denomination was not part of the regular currency series, making it a rare and highly collectible item.
Overview of the Front and Back Note
The obverse (front) side of the banknote prominently displays a detailed portrait of King Birendra, who is shown wearing a royal headdress and ceremonial attire, signifying his sovereignty and leadership. The background includes two significant Nepalese landmarks:
- The Nepal Rastra Bank headquarters, representing the nation’s financial stability.
- A traditional Newari-style temple, symbolizing Nepal’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
The reverse (back) side features a red cow standing against the scenic backdrop of the Himalayan mountains. In Nepalese culture, the cow is a sacred animal and a symbol of prosperity and religious devotion. On the left, two stone lions guard the entrance of a temple, representing protection and strength. The national emblem of Nepal is also displayed, reinforcing the country’s sovereignty and heritage.
Design Features
Obverse (Front)
- Portrait of King Birendra – Wearing a ceremonial headdress and royal attire, representing monarchical authority and Nepalese heritage.
- Nepal Rastra Bank Headquarters – Symbolizing the central bank’s role in the nation’s economy.
- Traditional Newari Temple – Reflecting Nepal’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
- Denomination “25 Rupees” – Printed in both Nepali and English, ensuring clarity.
- Intricate Border Patterns – Inspired by traditional Nepalese motifs and royal insignia.
- Signature of the Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank – Certifying the authenticity of the note.
Reverse (Back)
- Red Cow in a Himalayan Landscape – A representation of Nepal’s agrarian economy, religious significance, and natural beauty.
- Two Stone Lions – Symbolizing protection, power, and Nepalese cultural heritage.
- National Emblem of Nepal – Featuring Mount Everest, the sun and moon, and symbols representing Nepal’s unity and diversity.
- Denomination “25 Rupees” – Clearly printed for easy identification.
Color Scheme
- The front side features shades of gray, pink, and light green, giving it a sophisticated and royal appearance.
- The back side incorporates red, green, and blue hues, emphasizing the connection between Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural traditions.
The combination of subtle yet elegant colors enhances the banknote’s commemorative appeal, making it a visually striking piece.
Dimensions
- Width: 140 mm
- Length: 70 mm
This size aligns with standard banknote dimensions, ensuring that it is easily recognizable and collectible.
Security Features
The 1997 “King Birendra Silver Jubilee” 25 Rupees Commemorative Banknote includes several security elements to prevent counterfeiting and ensure authenticity:
- Watermark – A hidden portrait of King Birendra, visible when held to the light.
- Security Thread – A thin embedded metallic strip running vertically through the note.
- Microprinting – Fine details that can only be seen under magnification, making counterfeiting difficult.
- Raised Printing – Certain elements, such as the portrait and denomination, have a textured feel for verification by touch.
- UV Features – Special patterns and serial numbers glow under ultraviolet light, confirming authenticity.
- Color-Shifting Ink – Some text and symbols change shades when tilted, enhancing security.
These modern security measures make the banknote durable, difficult to counterfeit, and valuable for collectors.
Circulation and Collectibility
- This 25 Rupees commemorative note was issued in limited quantities, making it a rare collector’s item.
- While it was technically legal tender, it was not widely circulated, as many were preserved as souvenirs and collector’s pieces.
- The unique denomination (25 Rupees) was not part of Nepal’s regular currency system, increasing its historical and numismatic significance.
- Over time, its rarity and historical importance have made it highly desirable among numismatists and royal memorabilia collectors.
- Many specimens exist in uncirculated condition, further increasing their long-term investment potential.