This Zairean banknote represents the 1st denomination of the New Zaire (Series 1993-94). Due to rampant inflation the New Zaire replaced the previous First Zaire Series, in 1993. The New Zaire was the currency of the Republic of Zaire, until July 1, 1998. Although it to fell into hyperinflation, leading to Zaire's eventual collapse.
Every one of the New Zaire's 25 banknotes, bears an image of Zaire's authoritarian leader Marshall Mobutu Sese Seko. After his overthrow on 16 May 1997, Mobutu's image was often cut out. This makes completing a full collection, a fairly impressive feat.
The New Zaire was replaced by the Second Congolese Franc.
Observe
The observe depicts Marshall Mobutu (1930-1997), to his left is a leaping Leopard. This is both a reference to the nation symbol and Mobutu's nickname, the "Leopard of Zaire". Due to his fierceness as a leader and his iconic Leopard skin hat. Which often wore with an abacost, during state visits and formal events. He promoted the style during his 1960s-70s authenticité (authentic) program.
The French language header reads, (trans.) "Bank of Zaire". While the subtext list the note's "One New Likuta" value. At the center is a large number "1" and the note's 24 June 1993 print date. The note's value is repeated on upper-right corner, as "1 NK". Opposite is one of the note's dual-serial numbers (J 0138825 A), the second is on the lower-right.
At the note's left is the watermark area. The upper section features a decorative design, with the beforementioned serial number overprinted on it. At the center is the signature of the Bank Governor (Le Gouverneur). While the lower features a registration element, partially based on the Bank of Zaire logo. Backlighting the note with bright light completes the light puzzle effect.
The remainder of the observe features an underprint, of various overlapping guilloche patterns.
Reverse
The reverse features an illistration of an independence monument. Despite our efforts we have not been able to find this monument or it's name. Presumably it is or was located in Kinshasa and since been destroyed. The center depicts Marshall Mobutu standing in pride. While various people celebrate in the background wall. The placard at Mobutu's feet is to blurred to read.
Below the monument reads, (trans.) "Bank of Zaire". To its right is an elaborate design, it's lower section features the Zaire Coat of Arms. While the top reads "1 NK", representing the notes 1 (N)ouveau Li(K)uta value. Opposite a second "1 NK" can be seen, at the upper-left". The underprint below features a large guilloche pattern and an overprinted "bridge" design.
To the right is the note's watermark area. At its top is a counterfeit warning, it reads, (trans.) "(c)ounterfeiting is punished with penal servitude". At the unprinted center is a Marshall Mobutu watermark, it can be viewed by backlighting. While lower section features a Bank of Zaire logo. Which also serves as the positive, for the observe side registration element.
The footer lists the note's printer as "Giesecke & Devrient-Munich".
1993 New Zaire Gallery
(Gallery will be completed, as new banknotes are databased)
Additional Notes
This note's dimensions are 124 x 58 mm or 4.88 x 2.28 in, smaller than a US Dollar.
The preferable method to preserve this note are standard sized protective sleeves.
The New Zaire ISO code was ZRN, it used both Ƶ. and Z as symbols.
The New Zaire was subdivided into 100 Makuta, it lacked coins entirely.
Likuta is the Kongo word for a single Makuta, 100 Makuta equals 1 Zaire.
The abacost was a distinct Zaire alternative to the Western style business suit.
Zaire was a former Belgian colony, who's schools promoted the French language.