This Macedonian banknote represents the 2nd denomination of the First Denar (Series 1992). Despite their brief circulation (1992-1993) Macedonian Dinar notes have a rich and complex history. Beginning with initial calls for democratization and independence from Yugoslavia. Due in part to a rapidly changing world, in Eastern Europe.
Following the successful cession of Slovenia, in the Ten Day War (27 June-7 July 1991). The various states which composed Yugoslavia erupted in conflict. With armed insurgencies fighting for independence, often along ethnic grounds. Although notably Macedonia pursued independence through mostly peaceful means, via diplomatic negotiations.
The First Denar entered circulation on 27 April 1992, replacing the Yugoslav Dinar a mere 3 days later. They were hastily designed color-coded notes, printed by the city of Prilep. It's said the notes were designed a young "11 October" employee over a week. In April 1993, the Second Denar was introduced, replacing the First Denar at rate of 100:1.
Observe
The observe illustration features a group of farmworkers harvesting tobacco, in traditional dress. Folk costumes play a significant role in Macedonian culture. Traditionally there were roughly 70 male and female costumes, based on local region and village. Based on these costumes, the illustration represents a tobacco farm near Prilep.
The city of Prilep is located in Pelagonia, a plain region known for its tobacco production. Not surprising considering the note itself was designed and printed in Prilep. Additionally, the Socialist Republic of Macedonia was known known for its tobacco and opium production, while a constituent state of Yugoslavia.
In regard to text, the majority is located to the right, printed in Cyrillic script. The header reads "НАРОДНА БАНКА НА МАКЕДОНИЈА", translated as "National Bank of Macedonia". At the center-right is the text "ДВАЕСЕТ И ПЕТ", or "Twenty Five", representing the note's 25 Denar value. This area is decorated by a pair of "coils", with tobacco leaf wreaths.
There are additional number "25"s, located toward the upper left and lower right of the design. Below this design are a pair of signatures, representing the "гувернер" ((Bank) Governor" and "здменик на гувернерот" (Deputy Governor). To the left of the signatures is a letter "М", representing Macedonia.
The observe's final text is located at the upper left corner and far left. The upper left reads "СКОПЈЕ 1992 ГОДИНА", identifying the note as printed the "year 1992" and sanctioned by "Skopje", the Macedonian capital.
To the far left is vertical text, it reads "ФАЛСИФИКУВАЊЕТО СЕ КАЗНУВА СПОРЕД ЗАКОНОТ". Waring would be counterfeiters "COUNTERFEITING IS PUNISHED UNDER THE LAW".
Reverse
The reverse features the Makedonium monument, in Kruševo. Which commemorates the 1903 Ilinden–Preobrazhenie Uprising against the Ottoman Empire. The Ilinden–Preobrazhenie Uprising is notable for creating the short-lived Republic of Kruševo. Which lasted from 3-13 August 1903, it ended with the Ottoman Empire suppressing the uprising.
Although despite the uprising suppression, it created a legacy used by both Bulgarian and Macedonian nationalist. As citizens of both nations consider the Republic of Kruševo. To be the first modern predecessor of their homelands.
The use the Makedonium on this note. Can be seen as a continuation, of the Macedonian peoples' aspiration for an independent state. The reverse header reads "РЕПУБЛИКА МАКЕДОНИЈА", translated as the "Republic of Macedonia". Below the Makedonium is the note's serial number (4020784), printed in red ink.
Similar to the observe, the reverse center-right features the "ДВАЕСЕТ И ПЕТ" (Twenty Five). Which is surrounded by a pair of "coils" and number "25"s. The position of these numbers is mirrored from the observe. With the number repositioned to the upper-right and lower-left.
Additional Notes
The note's dimensions are 145 × 77 mm or 5.70 x 3.03 in, larger than a US Doller.
The First/Second Macedonian Denar ISO Code is MKD, the Second uses the symbol den/ден.
The preferable method to preserve this note are large size protective sleeves.
The First Denar was printed secretly, on low-grade paper imported from Slovenia.
Due to their rushed nature, the First Denar notes lack basic security measures.
Similar to the Croatian Dinar, the Macedonia Denar was pegged (1:1) to the Yugoslav Dinar.
The First Denar lacked sub-denominations, no coins were issued during its circulation.
Until 2013, the Second Denar was divided into 100 Deni (дени), it was retired due to inflation.
On 12 February 2019, Macedonia was formally renamed to the Republic of North Macedonia.
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