Commemorative Banknotes of Sri Lanka

Rs. 200 Commemorative Note

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka issued for circulation on 5th  February 1998, a commemorative polymer bank note in the denomination of Rs. 200 to  commemorate the 50th anniversary of Sri Lanka gaining independence. The note measures 146.5 x 73.0 mm. and is predominantly blue in colour. The series is identified by a serial prefix consisting of the letter N and a number. 

The obverse of the note depicts the Independence Memorial Hall at the Independence Square, Colombo as the main feature. A panel below depicts pictorial themes on the economic progress of Sri Lanka since regaining of Independence. The panel begins with a picture of a doctor and a nurse and the University buildings at Peradeniya in the background, depicting free health and education services.

The reverse of the note depicts the Sri Dalada Maligawa, Kandy as the main feature. The panel below depict pictorial themes in sequence beginning with the early history of the Island from the arrival of Prince Vijaya to Sri Lanka in the 6th Century BC and the arrival of Arahant Mahinda and introduction of Buddhism during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa.

 Rs. 1000 Commemorative Banknote

 The Central Bank of Sri Lanka issued the second commemorative note on 17.11.2009.The size of the note is 157 mm x 78.5 mm and the predominant colour is blue. The notes are identified by a serial prefix of Q and the numbers of the notes are starting from Q/1 000001 onwards and appear on the obverse in Arabic numerals, horizontally on the left and vertically on the right of the note. 

The obverse of the note is one country and one nation in harmony, progressing towards prosperity under the leadership of His Excellency President, Mahinda Rajapaksa. It also depicts the image of His Excellency President, Mahinda Rajapaksa, which is to the right of the note. A map of Sri Lanka with the rising sun in the background and a “Punkalasa” with ears of paddy at center left depicts territorial integrity and prosperity respectively, that are results of national harmony and peace. 

Reverse of the notes denotes the valiant contribution made by the nation’s victorious sons and daughters of the security forces and the police. The design at the center depicts the hoisting of the national flag by members of the security forces. Images of the Mavil Aru annicut and Thoppigala rock (Baron’s Cap) that were turning points of humanitarian operations of the security forces appear in the background.