Collection: The Silk Road: Ancient Banknotes that Tell the Story of Uzbekistan

Discover Uzbek Notaphily: A Legacy of Empires and Central Asian Heritage

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Uzbek banknotes , where each vintage banknote reflects the Silk Road, the Timurid Empire, and the vibrant heritage of Uzbekistan. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our meticulously curated collection of vintage Uzbek banknotes , designed for both seasoned collectors and new buyers passionate about the monetary heritage of this Central Asian steppe nation. Vintage Uzbek banknotes are more than just paper money; they are relics that chronicle the introduction of the Uzbek som in 1994, following independence from the USSR in 1991, symbolizing the economic sovereignty and identity of a people forged by their legacy in Samarkand and Bukhara.

The Evolution of Old Banknotes of Uzbekistan: From the Soviet Ruble to the Som

Before 1994, Uzbekistan, as the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic, used the Soviet ruble . Following independence on August 31, 1991, the National Bank of Uzbekistan , founded in 1991, introduced the Uzbek som (UZS) on July 1, 1994, divided into 100 tiyin. Initially, coupons were used as interim currency. The first old 1-som banknotes , issued in 1994, featured the poet Alisher Navoi and the Samarkand Registan. In 1997, an improved series was launched featuring historical figures such as King Babur. The current series (2013–present) includes polymer in some denominations, with themes of national unity.

Rare Antique Banknotes from Uzbekistan: Jewels of Central Asian Notaphily

Our collection highlights rare antique banknotes from Uzbekistan , such as:

Transition coupons (1993-1994) : in denominations of 10, 25, 50 and 100 coupons.

1994 Series : The 100th anniversary of 1994 with Alisher Navoi and the Bibi Khanum Mosque.

1997 Series : The 1,000 som of 1997 with King Timur and the Gur-e-Amir.

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

For lovers of Central Asian banknotes , we include exclusive pieces such as the 5,000 som note from 2000 featuring the astronomer Ulug Beg and the observatory, and the last 50,000 som note from 2017 featuring the poet Rudaki. These vintage banknotes incorporate advanced security features : a metallic thread, a watermark with Navoi, optically variable ink, and microtext. The rarity of the 1993 coupons and the first som notes from 1994, with limited print runs during the post-Soviet transition, makes them highly sought after at international auctions, valued for their connection to Timurid independence and heritage.

Preservation and Authenticity of Old Banknotes: Our Promise

Conservation is a key pillar in our selection of antique banknotes from Uzbekistan . Each piece is assessed according to international standards such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), guaranteeing the clarity of details like watermarks with King Timur, fluorescent fibers, and the signatures of the Governor of the National Bank. 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, which is frequent in transitional issues.

Why Collect Old Banknotes from Uzbekistan

From the 1993 100-som note with the provisional coat of arms to the 1997 1,000-som note featuring Timur and Gur-e-Amir, this collection offers an immersive experience in Uzbek history. Each vintage banknote reflects key moments, such as independence in 1991 or stabilization in 1994. For new collectors , it's an entry point into Central Asian collecting; for seasoned collectors , it's an opportunity to acquire complete series of post-Soviet rarities 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 Uzbek banknotes to new heights.