The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) has just launched its long-awaited 20-pound polymer banknote. This follows the issuance of Egypt’s first polymer banknote, the LE10 denomination, in 2022. The new 20-pound note, issued on June 20, will join the 20-pound currency already in circulation. 

In praise of polymer 
Polymer is quickly becoming the substrate of choice for banknotes issued around the globe. There are numerous reasons for this. Polymer notes are strong and durable, with a life span of up to five times that of paper (cotton) currency, thus reducing the need for reprinting. These thin, flexible banknotes also resist damage from water and dust, and are harder to counterfeit. Finally, polymer banknotes are recyclable.  

The introduction of polymer banknotes is consistent with objectives outlined in Egypt’s Vision 2030: to raise the quality of banknotes circulating in the Egyptian market, reduce printing costs over time, and contribute to sustainable development. 

A closer look at Egypt’s new 20-pound note  

Like Egypt’s 10-pound polymer banknote, the new 20-pound note was designed by De La Rue. It is printed on SAFEGUARD® polymer substrate by De La Rue and CCL Secure with GUARDIAN™ polymer substrate. The dimensions of the new 20-pound note are 137mm x 69mm.

The artistic design of the new banknote celebrates Egypt in the modern age while also paying homage to the foundations of the ancient Pharaonic civilization and the Islamic heritage of Egypt. 

PolymerFront side

The front of the new note features the “Mohamed Ali” mosque. 

Back side

The back of the new note depicts Queen Cleopatra’s statue and the Great Pyramids along with the pharaonic military chariot, and the ancient Egyptian warrior.  

Security features to prevent counterfeiting 

  • SURYS Alphagram™ Patch technology, applied over the banknote window, contains a metallized area with a unique metallized design (a mosque), with sophisticated animations and fine demetallization. It is a diffractive optical variable image device (DOVID) that presents continuous and homogeneous pixel-free optical structures with high resolution, bright artwork.  
  • Braille dots to help the blind and visually impaired. Blind and visually impaired consumers will be able to identify the new note’s denomination thanks to ADA Braille (tactile) dots added at the top-left of the front of the note. 

The EGP 20 paper banknote will remain valid for circulation in the market alongside the newly issued polymer without any changes. 

Sources/References: 

Central Bank of Egypt 

Banknote Industry New

 

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