Who is on Kyrgyzstan’s 100 som banknote?
Wikimedia Commons · “ҮЛГҮ” means sample.
The current 100 som banknote features Toktogul Satylganov, an improvising akyn and komuz player central to the Kyrgyz oral poetic tradition.
Contents:
Who is on the 100 som note
Toktogul lived from 1864 to 1933. He composed and performed songs with the komuz, took part in poetic contests and addressed the social conflicts of his time. Exiled to Siberia in the late nineteenth century, he resumed performing and teaching after his return.
His work survived through performance, transcription and later editions. His image on the currency therefore represents a living tradition in which poet, musician and storyteller are one person.
Read the full biography of Toktogul Satylganov.
What appears on the reverse
The reverse depicts the Toktogul Hydroelectric Power Station on the Naryn River. It represents a different chapter of the country’s history: large-scale energy production and the transformation of a river landscape.
Related guide: Toktogul Reservoir and the town of Kara-Kul.
Which issue is this, and is it valid?
The fifth-series note is dated 2023 and entered circulation on 15 February 2024. It measures 132 × 63 mm and is predominantly blue. Earlier and commemorative 100 som issues exist, with different designs and some different security features.
Size, colour and issue date
- Entered circulation: 15 February 2024.
- Size: 132 × 63 mm.
- Main colour: blue.
How to check a real banknote
Identify the issue by its date and design, then check several features.
- Against the light, look for a multi-tone portrait watermark with the denomination and a thread that appears continuous.
- Parts printed on opposite sides should align into a diamond when viewed through the note.
- The portrait, bank name, denomination and tactile marks should feel raised.
- Tilt the note: selected elements change colour or shine, while a bar or diamond appears to move on the thread.
Open the National Bank description and security guide.
Explore every denomination
Read about the people and scenes on the other notes:
1 som · 5 som · 10 som · 20 som · 50 som · 100 som · 200 som · 500 som · 1,000 som · 2,000 som · 5,000 som
How to use som, exchange cash and withdraw money in Kyrgyzstan.
Frequently asked questions
Who is on Kyrgyzstan’s 100 som banknote?
Toktogul Satylganov, an improvising akyn and komuz player.
What is on the reverse of the 100 som banknote?
The Toktogul Hydroelectric Power Station on the Naryn River.
Is the 100 som banknote valid?
Yes. The fifth series is in circulation; valid earlier issues can have a different design.
Share on social media
If you found this guide useful, share it on social media. It takes a moment and helps more travellers discover the project. Thank you!
Anything to add?
Share your experience, leave a comment or suggest an improvement.