Bhutan Launches New currency Notes to Celebrate a Landmark Royal Anniversary

 

In a move that intertwines monetary policy with profound national reverence, the Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) of Bhutan has unveiled a new series of Ngultrum banknotes. This special issuance is not to replace the existing currency but to serve as a commemorative tribute, marking the 70th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty The Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, The Great Fourth—a monarch revered for his visionary leadership that sculpted modern Bhutan and the Founder of the Gross National Happiness philosophy.

The new notes, which will circulate alongside the current series, were officially launched on November 11, 2025, a date of deep significance as it coincides with the birth anniversary of His Majesty The Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck. This strategic release transforms the nation's currency into a daily reminder of his enduring legacy, ensuring that his contributions are celebrated and remembered by every citizen in their everyday transactions.

RMA Press release: In this momentous celebration of legacy, leadership, and profound national reverence, the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan will introduce a new series of currency banknotes on November 12th 2025 to commemorate the 70th auspicious Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the visionary monarch who steered Bhutan into a modern constitutional democracy. The New Generation of Ngultrum Banknotes are with latest security features and are recyclable, sustainable and more durable compared to paper substrate which does not last long. For this reasons many nations now opt for polymer instead of paper substrate. Meanwhile, all series of ngultrum issued earlier shall remain as legal tender.

This new currency series is not merely a legal tender but a gallery of national heritage, a tapestry woven with threads of history, spirituality, and the enduring legacy of the Wangchuck Dynasty. Each denomination tells a story, capturing the essence of Bhutan's journey from a unified kingdom under a visionary founder to a nation globally revered for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness.

The Nu. 1000 Denomination: Honouring the Founding Father

The highest denomination pays homage to the roots of the monarchy. The obverse of the Nu. 1000 note features a dignified portrait of His Majesty King Ugyen Wangchuck, the first King of Bhutan, seated against the Wheel of the Universal Ruler. He is adorned with the sacred Raven Crown, a direct inheritance from his father, Desi Jigme Namgyel, symbolizing the unbroken lineage and the consolidation of the nation.

The reverse design is a powerful depiction of Tongsa Dzong, the ancestral seat of the Wangchuck dynasty and the historical home of the Tongsa Penlop. Flanking this architectural marvel are the Seal of the State and a pair of great hornbills, representing the rich biodiversity of the kingdom. The sky above the dzong comes alive with mythical protectors—dragons and the Garuda—warding off negative forces and watching over the nation, just as the kings have for generations.

The Nu. 500 Denomination: A Tribute to a Visionary Monarch

With profound respect and gratitude, the Nu. 500 denomination is dedicated to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The obverse design presents a portrait of the King, whose reign was defined by unparalleled wisdom and selfless service. He is set against the backdrop of the cross-vajra, an ancient Buddhist symbol denoting indestructibility and permanent stability—a fitting metaphor for the foundational pillars he gifted the nation: Gross National Happiness and the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan.

The reverse design is a profound narrative of Bhutan's spiritual soul. It showcases the magnificent Punakha Dzong, built in 1638, which serves as the final resting place of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan. Dominating the sky above is the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, consecrated in 1999, standing as a beacon of peace and protection for the nation. The state seal stands beside the dzong, affirming the unity of spiritual and temporal authority in His Majesty the King. A delicate yet deeply symbolic touch is the pair of Bhutan Glory butterflies below the watermark portrait, a nod to the nation's unique and cherished natural heritage that the Fourth King fiercely protected.

It is a poignant reflection that the very framework of Bhutan’s modern financial system was established under the reign of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. The creation of the Royal Monetary Authority as the central bank and the foundational role of the Bank of Bhutan, the nation's first bank, were landmark achievements that occurred during his visionary rule. This new note, therefore, not only carries his image but also circulates the very economic stability he helped build.

The Nu. 100 Denomination: Celebrating the Present and the Protector

Completing this sacred trinity of notes is the Nu. 100 denomination, which celebrates the enduring reign of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the Fifth Druk Gyalpo. The obverse design features His Majesty wearing the Raven Crown, set against the intricate and cosmic mandala. This is feast for the senses, with five sensory offerings presented to nine central dragons, symbolizing the prosperity and protection bestowed upon the kingdom. The reverse design centers on Tashicho Dzong, the majestic fortress that serves as the seat of the Royal Government of Bhutan. Above it, the Garuda, the mythical bird and national protector, spreads its wings, symbolizing the vigilant protection over the nation's governance and people. The state seal stands firm beside the dzong, representing the strength and integrity of the Bhutanese state.

The Legacy of a Visionary King

To understand the gravity of this commemorative issue, one must appreciate the monumental legacy of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Ascending to the Golden Throne at a young age, his reign was defined by transformative policies that have become the bedrock of Bhutan's unique identity. Most famously, he introduced the revolutionary philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), a holistic development paradigm that prioritizes the well-being and happiness of citizens over mere material economic growth. This concept has since garnered international acclaim and remains the guiding principle of the nation.

Furthermore, His Majesty was the architect of Bhutan's peaceful transition to democracy, voluntarily devolving his absolute power to establish a constitutional democratic monarchy. This selfless act ensured a stable and prosperous future for the kingdom, guided by the wisdom of its people and the benevolent oversight of the Wangchuck Dynasty. His reign also saw the careful nurturing of Bhutan's sovereignty and its unique cultural and environmental heritage, with the nation famously committing to remaining carbon neutral.

A Tribute in Circulation

Governor Dasho Penjore, in his announcement, was clear that these commemorative notes are legal tender and are intended to co-circulate with the existing currency series. This ensures a seamless integration into the economy without causing disruption. The primary objective is to honour an extraordinary monarch, allowing his image and legacy to permeate daily life, from bustling marketplaces to humble village shops.

The introduction of these notes is more than a monetary event; it is a national expression of gratitude. It is a way for the Kingdom of Bhutan, through its central bank, to engrave the philosophy and achievements of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo into the very fabric of its society. As these new notes pass from hand to hand, they carry with them the story of a king who dedicated his life to his people, championing their happiness, protecting their environment, and gifting them the tools for self-governance. They are not just instruments of economic exchange but portable monuments to a reign that defined a nation, ensuring that the wisdom of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo continues to inspire generations of Bhutanese to come.

 

[Courtesy: RMA Website]