Product Description
This is a 1988 Lao People's Republic 500 Kip banknote, International Banknote Catalogue number Pick #31a. It is a classic Lao socialist circulating banknote from the Cold War era. Encapsulated and graded by the authoritative US banknote grading agency PMG, it received a grade of 68 EPQ, indicating it is in perfect, uncirculated condition. It is a core collectible in the Southeast Asian socialist banknote thesis.
Front Design Details
| Main Image |
A group portrait of construction workers at a hydroelectric power plant, accompanied by transmission towers, irrigation canals, and agricultural tractors, showcasing the development of Laos' industrial and agricultural infrastructure at the time; |
| Text System |
The top features an arched Lao name inscription, flanked by symmetrical Lao numerals for the denomination, with the year of issue "1988" in the lower right corner, and a red printed serial number "HG0994363"; |
| Securities and Markings |
The central yellow translucent area displays the Lao national emblem, containing a five-pointed star, hammer and sickle, and rice ears; a full-page Southeast Asian traditional lotus scroll two-color engraved security background; and symmetrical carved borders at the four corners. |
Reverse Design Details
| Main Scene |
A tea-picking scene in a rural tea garden. The foreground features women picking tea leaves with branches, while in the background, workers carry baskets on their backs, recreating the unique tea-growing agricultural landscape of Laos. |
| Text Labeling |
The bank's name, "National Bank," is displayed in Lao script at the top; the 500 Lao kip denomination is indicated within a decorative border at the bottom; the Arabic numerals "500" are displayed on both sides. |
| Decorative Details |
A symmetrical Lao-style Buddhist floral relief border at the four corners; a full-page brown-green two-tone precision spiral anti-counterfeiting mesh pattern; and finely detailed engraved lines. |
Version and Condition Description
This is an original 1988 officially circulated banknote. The paper features a full-page watermark of five-pointed stars, a hammer and sickle, distinguishing it from later replicas without a watermark. It has been professionally graded 68 EPQ by PMG, representing pristine, uncirculated condition. The paper is sturdy and intact, without creases, stains, repairs, or maintenance marks. The ink is saturated and complete, with excellent color reproduction. It is permanently sealed in an anti-oxidation plastic casing and its authenticity can be verified via the official website's QR code.
Specifications
| Issuing Institution |
National Bank of the Lao People's Republic |
| Year of Issue |
1988 |
| Face Value |
500 Kip |
| Catalogue Number |
Pick #31a |
| Watermark |
Full-page watermark of five-pointed stars, hammer and sickle |
| Grading Score |
PMG 68 EPQ Superb Gem Unc |
| Printing Process |
Multi-color intaglio printing |
| Text |
Lao (single language) |
| Color Scheme |
Blue and gold on the obverse; brown, beige, and green on the reverse |
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