🏆 Commemorative Banknotes. "The best in the world 2025"

Commemorative banknotes are more than just paper money: they are works of art, history, and culture that celebrate national moments, anniversaries, and symbols. For numismatic collectors, these banknotes represent unique stories and examples of exceptional design. In this post, we explore the banknotes nominated for the third annual Best Commemorative Banknote 2025 , organized by the IBNS Mosaic Chapter , a subdivision of the International Bank Note Society (IBNS) focused on uniting collectors from Eastern Europe, the Middle East, the Gulf countries, and Africa.

🌍 What is IBNS Mosaic?

Before we delve into the nominated banknotes, it's important to understand who is behind this initiative.

The IBNS Mosaic Chapter is a subdivision of the International Bank Note Society (IBNS) —the most recognized international society of banknote collectors— with a clear mission: to connect collectors , promote the study and appreciation of banknotes, and expand the numismatic community in regions that have traditionally been less represented.

This chapter organizes events, educational projects, and rankings such as the Best Commemorative Banknote , where experts and enthusiasts vote for the year's most outstanding designs. Among its coordinators is Sergey Trushin , director at large of IBNS, renowned among collectors for his experience and leadership. His active collaboration with IBNS Mosaic lends it even greater international relevance and credibility.

🪙 List of nominees for Best Commemorative Banknote 2025

Below, we present each nominated banknote , with a description that highlights the reason for its issuance, its historical or cultural importance, and why it deserves to be in your collection.

🇧🇾 1. Belarus – 80 Rubles (March 31, 2025)

This banknote was issued to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War —one of the most important milestones in 20th-century European history. The designs typically include patriotic elements, monuments, and historical scenes that highlight courage and sacrifice during times of conflict.

🇧🇼 2. Botswana – 50 Pula (September 12, 2025)

Issued during the Bank of Botswana's 50th anniversary celebrations, this banknote stands out for balancing traditional cultural elements and modernity in its design.

The details often include emblematic fauna and symbols of economic progress, making it an attractive piece for both African and international collectors.

🇨🇳 3. China – 20 Yuan (December 23, 2024)

This commemorative banknote refers to the Year of the Snake , a traditional motif within the Chinese lunar calendar.

Zodiac animal motifs not only have deep cultural significance, but also appeal to collectors because of their symbolic and colorful design, making them a common piece in Asian-themed collection series.

🇨🇺 4. Cuba – 1000 Peso (October 21, 2025)

Issued to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cuban banking system , this banknote highlights Cuba's rich financial history and the consolidation of its economic identity.

The commemorative details on this banknote often depict historic buildings, key figures, and revolutionary symbols, making it a favorite among collectors interested in political and economic history.

🇰🇿 5. Kazakhstan – 1000 Tenge (May 9, 2025)

Kazakhstan paid tribute to the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory in World War II with this banknote.

This type of issue often incorporates patriotic iconography, military uniforms, and war monuments, which attracts collectors specializing in series dedicated to war commemorations.

🇲🇽 6. Mexico – 1000 Pesos (September 2, 2025)

One of the most anticipated banknotes by global collectors: the 1000 pesos issued by the Bank of Mexico to celebrate its centenary .

Mexico has historically been strong in producing commemorative banknotes of high artistic and security quality, making these pieces essential to any Latin American thematic collection.

🇳🇦 7. Namibia – 60 Dollars (March 17, 2025)

Issued in honor of Namibia's "service, dedication and progress", this banknote impresses with its message of social inclusion and development.

Its design often combines cultural symbols with messages of national unity, making it attractive to collectors interested in banknotes with deep social meaning.

🇵🇬 8. Papua New Guinea – 50 Kina (September 15, 2025)

To mark the 50th anniversary of independence , this banknote reflects traditional and modern elements of its culture.

The tribal iconography and local fauna make this piece an object of great aesthetic and cultural value for many collectors.

🇵🇱 9. Poland – 20 Zloty (November 5, 2025)

Issued in the context of the 1000th anniversary of the coronation of Bolesław Chrobry , this banknote is notable for its medieval historical motifs.

The commemoration of historical figures makes this banknote an ideal piece for thematic collections of historical biographies or European cultural milestones.

🇱🇰 10. Sri Lanka – 2000 Rupees (September 2, 2025)

Issued to celebrate the 75th anniversary of independence , this banknote combines traditional motifs, symbols of stability and prosperity, highlighting the country's resilience.

Sri Lanka's unique culture, traditional art and landscapes are reflected in the details of the banknote.

🇹🇯 11. Tajikistan – 100 Somoni (October 30, 2025)

This banknote commemorates 25 years of its national currency , a symbol of post-independence economic stability.

Its design incorporates traditional cultural elements, making it a valuable piece for collectors of Asian banknotes.

🇹🇭 12. Thailand – 100 Baht (May 19, 2025)

To mark the 150th anniversary of the Ministry of Finance , this Thai banknote blends institutional history with traditional Buddhist art.

Its iconography often includes temples, sculptures, and royal symbols, making it attractive for Asian-themed or institutional collections.

🇹🇲 13. Turkmenistan – 200 Manat (December 5, 2025)

Issued to celebrate the 30th anniversary of independence , this banknote highlights Turkmen national identity.

Collectors interested in Central Asia and modern independence themes will find this piece a relevant addition to their collection.

📈 Why these banknotes matter to collectors

Commemorative banknotes are interesting not only because of their rarity, but also because of their cultural significance . These factors make them desirable objects.

✅ Unique artistic design
✅ Limited or commemorative editions
✅ Representation of historical milestones
✅ High production quality and safety
✅ Appreciable value in themed collections

At Iberoamericana Banknotes we have a category of commemorative banknotes, because These types of pieces are highly sought after by most collectors of foreign banknotes.

📌 Conclusion

The banknotes nominated for the Best Commemorative Banknote 2025 offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of history, culture, and art captured on paper currency. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, these banknotes represent iconic pieces that should be in every collection. Comment on this post and let us know if we should create a section within the Iberoamericana Banknotes store where you can purchase all the award nominees and, of course, the winner of each edition.

🔗 See all the nominees and learn more with IBNS Mosaic here: ibnsmosaic.org