This post-Soviet Uzbek banknote represents the 1st denomination of First So'm (Series 1992). After the 1993 collapse of the post-Soviet "Ruble Zone", Uzbekistan pursued its own currency. Adopted on 15 November 1993, the First So'm served as a transitional currency. It replaced the obsolete Soviet Ruble at par (1:1). All notes were simple color-coded designs, and no coins were issued.
On 1 July 1994, the Second So'm replaced the First So'm, at a rate of 1,000 to 1.
Observe
The observe depicts the National Emblem of Uzbekistan. The emblem features the mythical Khumo, a large bird said to endlessly soar above the earth. The Khumo is said to be compassionate and a bringer of good fortune. Making it somewhat similar to the ancient Chinese Fenghuang. Below the Khumo is the note's serial number (AK 35664209).
At the upper-right is the note's header, it reads (trans.) "Uzbekistan". Below the header is the note's "1 So'm" face value. The bottom line reads "State Bank of Uzbekistan", followed by the note's "1992" print date. All notes of the First So'm follow this basic format.
Reverse
The reverse depicts the Sherdor Madrasa at the Registan, in Samarkand. The Sherdor Madrasa is one of the three Madrasas, that form the Registan. It known for the famous Shir o Khorshid (Tiger mosaic) on it's iwan (vaulted entrance). The note's "1" So'm is represented by number 1s on decoctive backings, at the corners.
Similar to many post-Soviet banknotes, backlighting the note will expose a full surface watermark. It features a repeating cotton boll pattern. Representing Uzbekistan's role in the Soviet cotton industry.
1992 First So'm Gallery
(Gallery will be updated as more banknotes are databased)
Additional Notes
This notes dimensions are 144 x 69 mm or 5.67 x 2.72 in, wider than a US Dollar.
The preferable method to preserve this note are large protective sleeves, cut to size.
The First So'm ISO code is UZC, it used сум as it official symbol.