Central Bank of Russia Invites Citizens to Vote on New 1,000-Ruble Banknote Design
The Central Bank of Russia has unveiled 25 design options for the updated 1,000-ruble banknote, inviting citizens to participate in the selection process through an online vote. This initiative was announced by Elvira Nabiullina, the head of the Central Bank, during a meeting of the banknote advisory council. The decision to allow public voting comes after previous designs faced criticism, particularly regarding the absence of a cross on the image of the Palace Church in the Kazan Kremlin.
Nabiullina emphasized that the symbols featured on the banknote should foster unity rather than controversy. The bank's decision to redesign the back of the banknote was influenced by feedback from regional expert groups, which initially proposed around 40 potential images. After careful consideration, the list was narrowed down to 25 diverse landmarks from the Volga District, including notable sites such as the Vyatka Art Museum, Kazan Federal University, and the Gagarin International Airport.
The front side of the new banknote will retain the design introduced in 2023, showcasing images of Nizhny Novgorod. The Central Bank aims to ensure that the new banknote reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region while also addressing previous public concerns about design choices.
Recent Developments in Russian Currency
In addition to the upcoming 1,000-ruble banknote, the Central Bank has recently introduced new 5,000-ruble banknotes in the Altai and Perm regions, featuring landmarks from Yekaterinburg and Chelyabinsk. These new notes come equipped with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting. The Central Bank plans to gradually withdraw older banknotes from circulation as the new designs become more widely available.
Furthermore, the release of an updated 500-ruble banknote has been postponed indefinitely, reflecting ongoing adjustments in the Central Bank's currency strategy. The public's involvement in the design of the 1,000-ruble banknote marks a significant step towards greater transparency and engagement in the decision-making processes of the Central Bank.