This vertical Mongolian banknote represents the 1st denomination of Series 1993 (Tögrög). Although popular amongst collectors, these small Mongolian notes are rarely used, in modern Mongolia. The majority of day to day payments are made with the larger Tögrög notes. The first 3 denominations of Series 1993 are Möngö notes, 100 Möngö equals 1 Tögrög.
Observe
The observe features in Mongolian numerals and script, which is written vertically. The text translates to “Mongolia” (left), Möngö (inner right), and Bank of Mongolia (right). The vertical serial number is the standard alphabet and numerals. The note's value is displayed diagonally across the lower left, center, and upper right. The center features an guilloché elaborate floral engraving.
The upper center features a Soyombo symbol, the national symbol of Mongolia. The term Soyombo is derived from Sanskrit "svayambhu", meaning "self-created”. In Mongolia official documents begin and end with the 2 Soyombo symbol variants.
The lower observe features a pair of archers. Archery is one of the 3 national sports of Mongolia. Locally the mid-summer games are known as the "eriin gurvan naadam" or "the three games of men". Or simply the Naadam for short, meaning “the games”.
The games are believed to have an ancient origin and meant to train Mongol soldiers. Initially the games were held during weddings and religious gatherings. Although have since been formalized since the creation of the Mongolian People's Republic, in 1924.
Reverse
The reverse at first glance, mostly mirrors the observe, with the notable exclusion of the Soyombo symbol. It features Mongolian Cyrillic and Standard numerals. This is due to the Mongolian People's Republic's (1945–1992) relations, with the mostly Russian Soviet Union (1922-1991).
The position of the text is altered, yet unchanged in its context. The text translates to “Mongolia” (top), Möngö (center), and Bank of Mongolia (bottom). The note's numerals remain the same, other than transitioning from Mongolian to standard numerals.
The archers imagine on the reverse lower forms the negative of a 2-color light puzzle/registration element. When back lit it forms a pink on red imagine of 2 archers. It can be viewed irregardless of side, although it's intended to be viewed from the observe. The note's background is based on the Buddhist "Eternal Knots".
At closer inspection one can notice a series of alteration from the observe. The elaborate guilloché pattern seen on the observe, is replaced by a simpler design. Instead featuring a branching pattern, forming an abstract flower. The reverse's sides are bordered, an area originally covered by Mongolian text and the note's serial number.
Ultraviolet Gallery
Size Comparison
Additional Notes
This note's dimensions are 45 × 90 mm (1.77 x 3.54 in), roughly the size of a large ticket.
All Möngö notes follow this standard format. Differing only in color, denomination, and national tradition being celebrated (lower note area).