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1979 Iranian 100 Riyal Banknote with Lion and Sun Overprint

A rare provisionally issued banknote that tells the story of the period immediately after the revolution

Note: The photos are for illustrative purposes only. The serial numbers on the actual banknotes you receive may differ from those shown in the photos. However, please be assured that the banknotes you receive will be in the same condition as those shown.

Product overview

• Country of issue: Islamic Republic of Iran

• Issuing bank: Central Bank (Bank Markazi Iran)

• Face value: 100 Riyals (IRR)

• Year of publication: 1979 (shortly after the Islamic Revolution)

• Size: 142 x 71 mm

• Material: Paper

• Technique: Overprinting on existing banknotes (provisional issuance typical of revolutionary times)

• Condition: Collector's grade (details vary by product)

Historical background

In 1979, the Pahlavi dynasty collapsed in Iran, and the Islamic Revolution led by Ayatollah Khomeini broke out. During this turbulent time, it was necessary to quickly erase the portraits of the old regime and designs symbolizing royal power. To address this, the government overprinted the "Lion and Sun" on existing banknotes, concealing the king's portrait and watermark, allowing them to be circulated under the new regime.

For this reason, this banknote is known as a "provisional banknote" and symbolizes a particularly important transitional period in Iran's modern history. Due to its short circulation period and the limited number of existing notes, it is now highly valued as a collectible internationally.

Design Features

Surface (with overstamp)

• Base design: Arabesque pattern imitating Persian carpets

• Portrait section: Originally it featured a portrait of the Pahlavi dynasty king, but after the revolution it was covered with a black arabesque pattern.

• Watermark: To neutralize the royal watermark, a lion and sun design has been overprinted. This is a traditional Iranian emblem and a symbolic link between the pre- and post-revolutionary periods.

• Other features include a red sequential number, a floral pattern on the bottom left, and black security thread.

Back side

• Center: The building of the Pahlavi Museum (now the Art Museum) in Tehran is depicted.

• Surroundings: Floral patterns are placed on the bottom left and right, and the color scheme is multicolored, with maroon, orange, and green as the main colors.

• Inscription: "BANK MARKAZI IRAN" written in English with both Latin and Persian characters.

Signature

• Hassan Ali Mehran (HAM) – Governor of the Central Bank

• Mohammad Yeganeh (MY) – Minister of Economy

• Yussef Khosh Kish (YKK) – Governor of the Central Bank

This signature variation makes it even more collectible.

The appeal of this banknote

1. Provisional issue limited to the revolutionary period

Unlike regular officially issued banknotes, these were only in circulation for a very short period of time, making them extremely rare.

2. Historical symbol "Lion and Sun"

The "lion and sun" emblem used to erase the watermark is a design that symbolizes Persian tradition and the chaotic period following the revolution.

3. International popularity

Among Iranian banknotes, it is particularly popular among collectors and is traded at high prices at overseas auctions and Numista.

4. Culture and Artistry

The decorative designs, based on Persian carpet motifs, are highly artistic and are prized not only by collectors but also by art lovers.

Collection value

This 1979 100 riyal banknote has value as a "transitional currency" created during the turbulent period immediately following the Iranian Revolution. Its combination of historical background, artistic design, and short lifespan has led to increased demand in the global collector market.

In particular, items in good condition or with distinctive serial numbers are likely to increase in value in the future.

Investment and preservation perspectives

• Investment target: Banknotes with historical significance are less likely to lose market value and are effective as long-term asset preservation.

• Storage method: Avoid UV rays and moisture and store in a protective case or album to maintain its beautiful condition for a long time.

• Future value: Iranian collections have been gaining attention in recent years and are in continuous demand in the global collector market.

Recommended points of GoldSilverJapan

At GoldSilverJapan, we only sell carefully selected collectible items with guaranteed authenticity. This banknote has also been inspected by an expert, so you can add it to your collection with peace of mind.

Product Details Summary

• Product Name: 1979 Iranian 100 Riyal with Lion and Sun Overprint

• Classification: Revolutionary Provisional Banknote (Type 2 ND 1979-80 Provisional Issue)

• Size: 142 x 71 mm

• Condition: Please see product description for details

• Features: Arabesque pattern covering the portrait of the king, overprint of "Lion and Sun" that erases the watermark

• Scarcity: Due to the short period of distribution and the limited number of pieces remaining, it has high international collection value.

lastly

This 1979 Iranian 100 riyal banknote is not just a currency, but a historical object that bears witness to the revolution. It combines artistic merit, historical significance, and investment value, making it a must-have addition to your collection.

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1979 Iranian 100 Riyal Banknote with Lion and Sun Overprint

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