Collection: Rwandan banknotes: history, art and resilience in African notaphily

Discover Rwandan Notaphily: A Tribute to Reconciliation and Biodiversity

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Rwandan banknotes , where each one reflects the resilience, national reconciliation, and vibrant biodiversity of Rwanda, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills." At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our carefully curated collection of Rwandan banknotes , perfect for both seasoned collectors and new buyers passionate about the monetary heritage of this inspiring East African nation. Old Rwandan banknotes are more than just paper money: they are relics that tell the story of the Rwandan franc , introduced in 1964 after independence, symbolizing a nation's recovery from the 1994 genocide and its journey toward sustainable development.

The Monetary Evolution of Rwanda: From the Colonial Franc to the Rwandan Franc

Before 1962, Rwanda, as part of the Belgian Mandate of Rwanda-Urundi, used the Belgian Congo franc and, later, the Rwanda-Urundi franc . Following independence on July 1, 1962, the National Bank of Rwanda , founded in 1964, introduced the Rwandan franc (RWF), divided into 100 centimes. The first 20-franc banknotes, issued in 1964, featured designs with national symbols, such as the Kalinga drum, and agricultural motifs, such as coffee. After the 1994 genocide, the country reformed its currency, and modern banknotes, particularly since 2013, highlight wildlife, such as the mountain gorilla, and technological progress, reflecting Rwanda's vision as a hub of African innovation.

Rare Banknotes: Jewels of Rwandan Notaphily

Our collection includes rare Rwandan banknotes , such as the 1952–1962 Ruanda-Urundi issues in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 francs, featuring Belgian colonial engravings and scenes of Lake Kivu. The 1964–1994 Rwandan franc series are notable for their designs featuring President Grégoire Kayibanda (on the 50 franc note ) and views of the Gisovu tea plantation. Commemorative issues, such as the 2019 2,000 franc note for the 25th anniversary of liberation, feature the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre and symbols of unity.

For enthusiasts of African banknotes , we offer unique pieces such as the 2009 5,000-franc note featuring the mountain gorilla and Volcanoes National Park, and the modern 2019 500-franc note depicting students with tablets, symbolizing educational progress. These banknotes incorporate advanced security features, such as metallic threads, optically variable inks, microtext, and tactile elements for the visually impaired, introduced since 2007. The rarity of issues like the 1964 20-franc note or the 1994 series, with limited print runs during the conflict, makes them coveted pieces at international auctions, valued for their connection to independence and national reconciliation.

Preservation and Authenticity: Our Promise

Conservation is a key pillar in our selection of Rwandan banknotes . Each piece is assessed according to international standards such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), guaranteeing the clarity of details like the crowned crane watermark, fluorescent fibers, and the signatures of the governors of the National Bank of Rwanda. We recommend that collectors of rare banknotes verify authenticity under UV light, where elements such as serial numbers and cultural motifs glow in shades of green or blue, in accordance with the bank's 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 replica banknotes from the conflict era.

Why Collect Rwandan Banknotes

From the 1964 20-franc note, featuring the Kalinga drum and a farmer, to the 2019 1,000-franc note , with the leopard and Kigali's Financial Centre, this collection celebrates Rwandan identity: its post-genocide recovery, its biodiversity, and its modernization. Each banknote reflects milestones such as independence in 1962 or the reconstruction following 1994. 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 Rwandan notaphily and own a piece of history with Iberoamericana Banknotes .