Origin:Turkmenistan Type: Circulation Banknotes (Pre- & Post-Reform Manat) Years: 1993 – 2005 (mixed series) Denominations: Mixed (5 to 10,000 Manat depending on set) Material: Cotton-based banknote paper Printer: State-issued (various international security printers, incl. UK & Europe) Condition: Circulated & partially uncirculated mix Authenticity: 100% original, not reproductions
These banknotes originate from the early years of independent Turkmenistan, following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
The first Turkmen Manat was introduced in 1993, during a period of economic instability and extreme inflation. This resulted in rapidly increasing denominations and multiple redesigns over a short period of time.
All notes prominently feature His Excellency President Saparmurat 'Türkmenbaşy' Niyazov, Chairman of Cabinet of Ministers, Supreme Commander, or the first president and self-declared leader for life.
Goes without explaining, HUGE Dictator.
Türkmenbaşy” (Leader of the Turkmen)
He ruled Turkmenistan from 1985 until his death in 2006 and created one of the most extreme personality cults in modern history.
Renamed months of the year after himself and his family
Built gold statues of himself, including one that rotated to always face the sun
His book Ruhnama became mandatory reading in schools, workplaces, and even driving exams
Political opposition was effectively non-existent
Strict control over media, religion, and daily life
These banknotes are a direct reflection of that era and the hyperinflation where the state, the economy, and the leader were inseparable.
