Starting today, Sunday (June 1, 18 Jaishtha 1432 in the Bengali calendar), Bangladesh Bank is introducing a new series of Tk 1000, Tk 50, and Tk 20 banknotes featuring fresh designs centered around the theme of “Historic and Archaeological Architecture of Bangladesh.” Notably, these new notes do not include the image of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The update was confirmed on Thursday (May 29) by Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and spokesperson of Bangladesh Bank.
The new notes highlight various prominent historical and archaeological landmarks across the country. They are signed by the current Governor of Bangladesh Bank, Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur. Initially, the notes will be available from the central bank’s Motijheel office and will later be distributed through other branches nationwide.
Bangladesh Bank has clarified that the introduction of the new notes will not affect the validity of the existing paper notes and coins, which will continue to be legal tender.
In addition, special specimen versions of the Tk 1000, Tk 50, and Tk 20 notes have been printed for collectors. These specimen notes are non-exchangeable and can be purchased at a fixed price from the Currency Museum located in Mirpur, Dhaka.
This move marks a significant shift in the country’s currency policy. By removing political imagery and focusing on national heritage, Bangladesh Bank aims to modernize note designs while promoting the country’s cultural and historical identity. Plans are underway to gradually introduce similar designs for other denominations as well.
