Collection: The Hermit Kingdom: Ancient Banknotes That Tell the Story of North Korea

Explore North Korean Notaphily: A Legacy of Juche and Revolutionary Iconography

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of North Korean banknotes , where each vintage banknote reflects the Juche ideology, the Kim dynasty, and North Korea's vibrant revolutionary heritage. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our meticulously curated collection of vintage North Korean banknotes , perfect for both seasoned collectors and new buyers passionate about the monetary heritage of this hermit state. Vintage North Korean banknotes are more than just paper money; they are relics that chronicle the introduction of the North Korean won in 1947, issued by the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), symbolizing the economic sovereignty of a nation forged by its isolation and personality cult.

The Evolution of Old North Korean Banknotes: From the Won to the Modern Won

Before 1947, North Korea used the Japanese yen during the occupation (1910–1945). Following the founding of the DPRK on September 9, 1948, the Central Bank of the DPRK , established in 1946, introduced the North Korean won (KPW) on December 15, 1947, divided into 100 chon. The first old 1-won banknotes , issued in 1947, featured leader Kim Il-sung and the national emblem. In 1959, the currency was redenominated (1 new won = 100 old won), with series including Kim Il-sung and Juche symbols such as the Sup'ung Dam. In 2009, another redenomination (1 new won = 100 old won) introduced banknotes featuring the Kim family and landmarks such as the Pyongyang Arch of Triumph. The current series (2009–present) includes polymer in some denominations.

Rare Antique Banknotes from North Korea: Jewels of East Asian Notaphily

Our collection highlights rare antique banknotes from North Korea , such as:

1947 Series (foundation) : The 5 won of 1947 with Kim Il-sung and the Kumsusan Sun Palace.

1959 Series : The 10 won of 1959 with the leader and the steel factory.

1978 Series : The 50 won of 1978 featuring Kim Il-sung and the Juche monument.

Printing errors : banknotes with duplicate serial numbers or without a security thread.

For East Asian banknote enthusiasts, we offer exclusive pieces such as the 1947 1 won note featuring the coat of arms and the king, and the last 500 won note from 2002 featuring Kim Jong-il. These vintage banknotes incorporate basic security features such as watermarks with Kim Il-sung and fluorescent fibers. The rarity of the 1947 (pre-DPRK) and 1959 (post-redenomination) issues makes them highly sought after at international auctions, valued for their connection to the founding of the DPRK and the Juche ideology.

Preservation and Authenticity of Old Banknotes: Our Promise

Conservation is a key pillar in our selection of antique North Korean banknotes . Each piece is assessed according to international standards such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), guaranteeing the clarity of details like watermarks with Kim Il-sung, fluorescent fibers, and the signatures of the Central Bank Governor. We recommend that collectors of rare antique banknotes verify authenticity under UV light, where elements such as serial numbers glow in shades of green or blue. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , every antique banknote undergoes a rigorous verification process to guarantee its authenticity , preventing common counterfeits such as irregular printing.

Why Collect Old North Korean Banknotes

From the 5 won note of 1947 featuring Kim Il-sung and the palace, to the 50 won note of 1978 with the monument, this collection offers an immersive experience in North Korean history. Each vintage banknote reflects key moments, such as the founding of the DPRK in 1948 or the 2009 redenomination. For new collectors , it's an entry point into East Asian collecting; for seasoned collectors , it's an opportunity to acquire complete series with rarities from the Kim Il-sung era that will enrich any collection.

Trust Iberoamericana Banknotes

At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we guarantee the authenticity of every antique banknote with detailed certificates and expertise in Asian 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 antique North Korean banknotes to new heights.