Kyrgyzstan prints its own banknotes for the first time: 20 and 50 som notes enter circulation

The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan introduced banknotes in denominations of 20 and 50 som of the 2026 model into circulation on October 27, 2026. For the first time in the history of the independent republic, the banknotes have been manufactured within the country, announced Mels Attokurov, deputy chairman of the National Bank, at a press conference.

Banknote production was carried out by LLC "Central Asian Security Printing House." The issuance was organized in fulfillment of an order from the president of Kyrgyzstan and instructions given at the second People's Kurultai.

According to Attokurov, domestic production of national currency will allow Kyrgyzstan to develop security printing technologies, strengthen its production base, and increase the resilience of its cash circulation system.

The new banknotes retain the design of the current fifth series: the main images, dimensions, and colors remain unchanged. The National Bank identifies seven main security features of the 2026-model banknotes; to verify authenticity, it is recommended to examine the banknote against light, change the viewing angle, and check the relief elements by touch.

The issuance of new banknotes does not mean that previous series banknotes will be withdrawn from circulation. The 2026-model banknotes will circulate alongside banknotes from previous issues; exchanging existing 20 and 50 som notes is not required.