The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan issued a special 100 Ngultrum commemorative banknote
In 2016, the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan issued a special 100 Ngultrum commemorative banknote to celebrate the first birth anniversary of His Royal Highness (HRH) The Gyalsey, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, the son of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema. This commemorative note symbolizes the prosperity, joy, and hope brought by the young prince to the people of Bhutan.
This 100 Ngultrum note is a non-circulating commemorative issue, meaning it is not intended for general transactions but rather serves as a symbol of national pride and a collector’s item.
Overview of the Front and Back Note
The obverse (front) side of the banknote prominently features a portrait of the young prince, HRH The Gyalsey, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, in a joyful expression. To the left of his image, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema appear, reinforcing the royal heritage and continuity of the monarchy. The golden floral design in the background adds elegance and represents prosperity.
The reverse (back) side of the banknote features a majestic golden dragon, symbolizing power, protection, and Bhutan’s cultural heritage. The background is filled with stylized golden clouds, further enhancing the sense of Bhutan’s spiritual and mythical traditions. The text “Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan” is prominently displayed, along with the denomination.
Design Features
Obverse (Front)
- Portrait of HRH The Gyalsey – Depicting the infant prince on his first birth anniversary, symbolizing Bhutan’s bright future.
- King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck & Queen Jetsun Pema – Representing the royal lineage and national unity.
- Decorative Bhutanese Motifs – Traditional floral elements and golden patterns.
- Commemorative Text – “Commemorating the First Birth Anniversary of HRH The Gyalsey.”
- Denomination “100” – Displayed in both Dzongkha and English.
- Golden Background Design – Representing prosperity and monarchy.
Reverse (Back)
- Golden Dragon Illustration – A symbol of power, protection, and Bhutanese cultural identity.
- Stylized Golden Clouds – Depicting spiritual prosperity and peace.
- Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan Seal – Ensuring the authenticity of the note.
- Denomination “100” – Located at the top left and bottom right corners.
- Governor’s Signature – Officially marking the note’s issuance.
Color Scheme
- The front side of the note is dominated by golden yellow tones, symbolizing prosperity, royalty, and celebration.
- The back side continues the gold theme, with hints of white and deep yellow, enhancing the sacred and mythical elements of Bhutanese culture.
The overall color scheme reflects the importance of the royal family and Bhutanese traditions.
Dimensions
- Width: 145 mm
- Length: 70 mm
This size is slightly larger than standard banknotes, making it distinctive and special as a commemorative issue.
Security Features
The 2016 “First Anniversary of Birth of the Prince of Bhutan” 100 Ngultrum Commemorative Banknote is embedded with modern security features to prevent counterfeiting:
- Watermark – A hidden image of the royal crest appears when held against the light.
- Security Thread – A thin embedded metallic strip runs across the note.
- Microprinting – Tiny text details that can only be read under magnification.
- Raised Printing – The portraits, dragon, and key inscriptions have a tactile texture, enhancing authenticity.
- UV Features – Some elements glow under ultraviolet (UV) light, making counterfeiting difficult.
- Holographic Features – Some areas of the design shift in color when tilted.
These features ensure durability, authenticity, and collectible value.
Circulation and Collectibility
- This 100 Ngultrum banknote is a non-circulating commemorative issue, meaning it is not used for everyday transactions.
- It was issued by the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan in 2016 to celebrate the first birth anniversary of the prince.
- Due to its royal significance and limited print run, it is highly collectible among numismatists and Bhutanese citizens.
- Many copies remain in uncirculated condition, increasing their long-term value.
- The unique theme, elegant design, and golden color scheme make it one of Bhutan’s most prestigious commemorative banknotes.