Explore Cypriot Notaphily: A Legacy of Division and Mediterranean Heritage
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Cypriot banknotes , where each vintage banknote reflects the complex history, the 1974 division, and the vibrant Mediterranean heritage of Cyprus, the island where Aphrodite was born. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our collection of vintage Cypriot banknotes , meticulously curated for both seasoned collectors and new buyers passionate about the monetary heritage of this divided nation. Vintage Cypriot banknotes are more than just paper money: they are relics that chronicle the introduction of the Cypriot pound in 1879, its continued use after independence in 1960, and its replacement by the euro in 2008, symbolizing the transition from a national currency to the European Union in the Greek Cypriot side, while the north uses the Turkish lira .
The Evolution of Old Cypriot Banknotes: From the Pound to the Lira and the Euro
Before 1879, Cyprus, under Ottoman rule, used the Ottoman lira . Following its cession to Great Britain, the Cypriot pound (CYP) was introduced in 1879. After independence on August 16, 1960, the Central Bank of Cyprus , founded in 1963, issued old banknotes in denominations of 250 mils, 500 mils, 1, 5, and 10 pounds. The first old 1-pound banknotes from 1961 featured Queen Elizabeth II and a map of Cyprus. In 1997, a series featuring historical figures such as the archaeologist Vassos Karageorghis was launched. Cyprus adopted the euro on January 1, 2008 (only in the Republic of Cyprus).
Rare Old Banknotes from Cyprus: Jewels of Mediterranean Notaphily
Our collection highlights rare antique banknotes from Cyprus , such as:
1961 Series (colonial) : the 500 mils of 1961 with Queen Elizabeth II and the Cypriot coat of arms.
1977 Series : The 5 pound note from 1977 featuring archaeologist Vassos Karageorghis and the Kourion Theatre.
Last series 1997-2005 : the 2001 20 pound coin featuring the goddess Aphrodite and the ship of Kyrenia.
For lovers of Mediterranean banknotes , we include exclusive pieces such as the 1997 £10 note featuring the Paphos mosaic, and the last 20£20 note from 2005 depicting President Makarios III. These vintage banknotes incorporate classic security features : a metallic thread, a watermark with the head of Aphrodite, optically variable ink, and microtext. The rarity of the 1961 (transitional) and 2005 banknotes makes them highly sought after at international auctions, valued for their connection to Cypriot independence and mythology.
Preservation and Authenticity of Old Banknotes: Our Promise
Preservation is essential in our selection of vintage Cypriot banknotes . Each piece is graded on standard scales such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), preserving details like watermarks with Aphrodite, fluorescent fibers, and the signatures of the Central Bank Governor. We recommend that collectors of rare vintage banknotes verify their integrity under UV light, where elements such as the map of Cyprus will glow in shades of yellow or green. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , all our pieces come from verified sources, avoiding common forgeries found in replicas of the 1961 series.
Why Collect Old Cyprus Banknotes
From the 500 mils note of 1961 featuring the queen and the coat of arms, to the 20 pounds note of 2005 with Aphrodite and the ship of Kyrenia, this collection offers a window into Cypriot history. Each vintage banknote reflects key moments, such as independence in 1960 or the adoption of the euro in 2008. For new collectors , it's an entry point into collecting with historical value; for experienced collectors , it's a chance to acquire complete series that enrich any collection.
Trust Iberoamericana Banknotes
At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we guarantee the authenticity of every vintage banknote with detailed certificates and expertise in Ibero-American and Mediterranean numismatics. We offer pieces in optimal condition for your collectible collection and secure, discreet international shipping to any destination. Trust our authority to elevate your passion for vintage Cypriot banknotes to new heights.
