Collection: Banknotes from Madagascar. Art, wildlife and symbolism on modern banknotes

Discover Malagasy Notaphily: A Tribute to Biodiversity and Independence

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Malagasy banknotes , where each one reflects the extraordinary biodiversity, rich cultural heritage, and struggle for independence of Madagascar, the jewel of the Indian Ocean. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our collection of Malagasy banknotes , carefully curated for expert collectors and new buyers passionate about the monetary heritage of this unique African country. Vintage Malagasy banknotes are more than just paper money: they are relics that tell the story of the ariary , reintroduced in 2003 after replacing the Malagasy franc, and which symbolizes the sovereignty achieved in 1960 following independence from France.

The Monetary Evolution of Madagascar: From the Franc to the Ariary

Before 1960, Madagascar, under French colonial rule, used the Malagasy franc , issued by the Istituto Emisor de Madagascar e Comoros (Issuing Institute of Madagascar and Comoros). After independence, the franc continued in use, but in 2003, the ariary , a traditional currency whose name derives from Spanish silver coins, was reintroduced as the official currency by the Central Bank of Madagascar (BFM) , founded in 1974. The first 100 ariary banknotes, issued in 2004, featured designs with the baobab tree, an iconic symbol of the island, and historical figures such as King Andrianampoinimerina. The banknotes reflect the agrarian economy and unique biodiversity, with endemic species such as the lemur and the chameleon.

Rare Banknotes: Jewels of Malagasy Notaphily

Our collection includes rare banknotes from Madagascar , such as the Malagasy franc issues from 1961–2003 in denominations of 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 francs, featuring engravings of Queen Ranavalona III and agricultural scenes like rice paddies. The 2004 ariary series is notable for its designs featuring President Marc Ravalomanana (on the 10,000 ariary note ) and views of Isalo National Park. Commemorative issues, such as the 2017 2,000 ariary note for the 50th anniversary of the Bank of Madagascar (BFM), feature the ring-tailed lemur and Malagasy cultural motifs.

For enthusiasts of African banknotes , we offer unique pieces such as the 2017 25,000 ariary banknotes, featuring the Traveler's Tree and the port of Toamasina, and the modern 2017 5,000 ariary banknotes, highlighting endemic fauna such as the mantella frog and the Ambohimanga Palace. These banknotes incorporate advanced security features, including metallic threads, optically variable inks, microtext, and tactile elements for the visually impaired, introduced since 2004. The rarity of issues such as the 1961 50 franc banknotes or the first series of ariary banknotes from 2004, with limited print runs during the transition period, makes them coveted pieces at international auctions, valued for their connection to Malagasy independence and biodiversity.

Preservation and Authenticity: Our Promise

Conservation is a key pillar in our selection of Madagascar banknotes . Each piece is assessed according to international standards such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), guaranteeing the clarity of details like watermarks featuring the zebu, the national symbol, fluorescent fibers, and the signatures of the BFM governors. We recommend that collectors of rare banknotes verify authenticity under UV light, where elements such as serial numbers and natural motifs glow in shades of green or blue, in accordance with BFM standards. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , each banknote undergoes a rigorous verification process to guarantee its authenticity , preventing common counterfeits such as printing defects or missing security threads, which are frequent in replicas of colonial or transitional banknotes.

Why Collect Madagascar Banknotes

From the 1961 100-franc note featuring Queen Ranavalona III and the Antananarivo market, to the 2017 1,000-ariary note with the Malagasy lemur and Andasibe National Park, this collection celebrates Malagasy identity: its unique biodiversity, cultural heritage, and independence. Each note reflects milestones such as the founding of the Bank of Malagasy (BFM) in 1974 or the reintroduction of the ariary in 2003. For new buyers , it's an opportunity to invest in pieces with historical value; for experienced collectors , it's a chance to complete series with rare or commemorative denominations that enrich any collection.

Trust Iberoamericana Banknotes

At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we guarantee the authenticity of every banknote with detailed certificates and expertise in Ibero-American and African numismatics. We offer pieces in optimal condition to enhance your collecting legacy and provide secure and discreet international shipping to any destination. Embark on a journey through Malagasy notaphily and own a piece of history with Iberoamericana Banknotes .