Who is on Kyrgyzstan’s 50 som banknote?
Wikimedia Commons · “ҮЛГҮ” means sample.
The current 50 som banknote features Kurmanjan Datka, a nineteenth-century political leader of Alai often known as the Queen of Alai.
Contents:
Who is on the 50 som note
Kurmanjan Datka lived from 1811 to 1907. After the death of her husband Alymbek Datka, she played a major role in the leadership of southern Kyrgyz communities and in negotiations with neighbouring powers. Datka was a high military and administrative title.
Her life later accumulated legends, so documented decisions should be separated from commemoration. On the note she represents the political history of southern Kyrgyzstan and the uncommon image of a female ruler on Central Asian currency.
What appears on the reverse
The reverse shows the Uzgen architectural complex: its minaret and medieval mausoleums. These Karakhanid monuments place Kurmanjan Datka within a much longer history of southern Kyrgyzstan.
Related guide: our full biography of Kurmanjan Datka.
Which issue is this, and is it valid?
The fifth-series note is dated 2023 and entered circulation on 15 February 2024. It measures 126 × 61 mm and is predominantly orange. Earlier 50 som series remain valid unless withdrawn, so a genuine note may have a different design.
Size, colour and issue date
- Entered circulation: 15 February 2024.
- Size: 126 × 61 mm.
- Main colour: orange.
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 50 som banknote?
Kurmanjan Datka, a nineteenth-century political leader of Alai.
What is on the reverse of the 50 som banknote?
The minaret and mausoleums of the Uzgen architectural complex.
Is the 50 som banknote valid?
Yes. The current fifth series and older issues that have not been withdrawn remain legal tender.
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