Who is on Kyrgyzstan’s 5,000 som banknote?
Wikimedia Commons · “ҮЛГҮ” means sample.
The current 5,000 som banknote features Suimenkul Chokmorov, an actor and painter who became one of the defining faces of Kyrgyz cinema.
Contents:
Who is on the 5000 som note
Chokmorov lived from 1939 to 1992. He trained as a visual artist, painted portraits and landscapes, and later entered film. His screen roles helped shape the public image of Kyrgyz cinema in the second half of the twentieth century.
The combination of painting and acting explains his place on the currency. Chokmorov worked with images in two forms: on canvas and through movement, voice and dramatic performance.
The life and work of Suimenkul Chokmorov.
What appears on the reverse
The reverse depicts the Ala-Too cinema in central Bishkek. It continues the film theme and recalls the urban venues through which Chokmorov’s work reached audiences.
Related guide: Bishkek and the area around Ala-Too Square.
Which issue is this, and is it valid?
The fifth-series note entered circulation on 10 May 2024. It measures 156 × 73 mm and is predominantly green. This is Kyrgyzstan’s highest regular banknote denomination; valid earlier 5,000 som issues may also remain in circulation.
Size, colour and issue date
- Entered circulation: 10 May 2024.
- Size: 156 × 73 mm.
- Main colour: green.
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 5000 som banknote?
Suimenkul Chokmorov, a Kyrgyz actor and painter.
What is on the reverse of the 5000 som banknote?
The Ala-Too cinema in central Bishkek.
Is the 5000 som banknote valid?
Yes. The fifth-series note is in circulation; valid earlier issues may have another design.
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