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Complete Guide to Iraqi 250 Dinar Banknote (1995) | Gold Silver Japan

Introduction

Iraq's 250 dinar banknote is a rare currency that reflects the economic turmoil of the 1990s and the political symbolism of Saddam Hussein's regime. Issued in 1995, this note in particular has attracted the attention of banknote collectors worldwide for its unique design and historical background. Currently demonetized (voided as currency), it is no longer in circulation in modern Iraq, but it remains a highly valuable historical and collectible note.

In this article, we will introduce in detail the characteristics, historical background, design explanation, and market value of this Iraqi 250 dinar banknote from the expert perspective of GoldSilverJapan.

basic information

• Country of issue: Republic of Iraq

• Issuer: Central Bank of Iraq

• Year of publication: 1415 Hijri calendar (1995 AD)

• Face value: 250 dinars

• Currency unit: Iraqi Dinar (IQD)

• Size: 175 x 85 mm

• Material: Paper

• Shape: Rectangle

• Status: Demonetized (disabled)

• Signed: Issam Rashid Hawaish (then Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq)

Obverse design

The 250 dinar note features a large portrait of then Iraqi President Saddam Hussein on the front, a feature of Iraqi banknotes that was repeatedly used by the regime to symbolize its authority.

The Haditha (Qadisiyya) Dam is depicted in the background, and is an important architectural landmark symbolizing Iraq's economic and infrastructure development. Located on the Euphrates River, the dam was essential for power supply and agricultural irrigation, and was a symbol of pride for the government at the time.

The color scheme is primarily lavender and blue, with a multicolored underprint, demonstrating the use of advanced anti-counterfeiting technology at the time.

Reverse design

The reverse features a relief based on the Monument of Freedom in Baghdad, an artwork symbolizing Iraqi independence and national unity, with a series of powerful figures.

The large number "250" is placed on both sides of the banknote to visually emphasize the face value. This is a device to make it easier to distinguish in everyday use, and at the same time serves as an artistic decoration.

Historical background

Monetary policy under Saddam Hussein

In the 1990s, Iraq faced a severe economic crisis due to the Gulf War and international sanctions, which resulted in rapid inflation and a devaluation of the dinar, necessitating the issuance of new, high-denomination banknotes.

The 250 dinar banknote was born in this trend and was used as a symbol of Saddam Hussein's authoritarian rule. The use of his portrait emphasized Hussein as the face of the nation and served as propaganda for the people.

Demonetize (Disable)

After the Iraq War in 2003, when Saddam's regime collapsed, all old banknotes were replaced with newly designed currency. Therefore, this 250 dinar banknote lost its validity as official currency after 2003 and is now a purely collectible item.

Security and Features

• Watermark: Not present

• Security thread: None

• Printing technology: Complex background patterns created by multicolor printing

• Signature: Hand-printed by the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq

Compared to international standards at the time, the security features were limited, but this is also one of the attractions of the collection.

Collector's value

Market price range

The price of Iraqi 250 dinar banknotes varies greatly depending on their condition and serial number.

• Used (VF level): A few hundred yen

• Unused (UNC): from several thousand yen to over 10,000 yen

• Rare serial numbers and errors: Even more expensive

Unused (UNC) items in particular are in limited supply and enjoy steady demand in the collector market.

Reasons for its popularity

1. The historical symbolism of Saddam Hussein's portrait

2. The scarcity of demonetized old currencies

3. Documentary value that tells the story of Middle Eastern wars and economic history

Available at Gold Silver Japan

At GoldSilverJapan, we carefully select and stock rare old Iraqi banknotes like these.

• Authenticity verified for peace of mind

• Preserved condition for collectors (mainly UNC)

• Fast shipping within Japan

In particular, the Iraqi 250 dinar banknote has a historical background and is highly collectible, making it an item whose price is expected to continue to rise. If you are interested in purchasing one, please check our latest inventory.

Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Can this banknote still be used today?

A: No. Since 2003, all old banknotes have been replaced with new designs and invalidated.

Q2: How much is it worth?

A: It depends on the condition and serial number, but unused items are traded at particularly high prices.

Q3: Is it an attractive investment target?

A: Yes. Old Iraqi banknotes are valuable as historical documents and are expected to be in demand for a long time.

Q4: How should I store it?

A: We recommend storing your bills in a bill holder or sleeve, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

summary

The Iraqi 250 dinar banknote (issued in 1995, during the Saddam Hussein era) is a highly collectible banknote due to its historical background and unique design. The portrait of Saddam Hussein and Haditha Dam on the front and the relief of the Freedom Monument on the back symbolize Iraq's turbulent times.

Although it has now been demonetized and no longer functions as currency, it remains highly sought after on the collector's market.

At GoldSilverJapan, you can purchase these precious banknotes through official channels with peace of mind. Be sure to get your hands on this 250 dinar banknote as part of your collection or as a historical reference.

Iraqi 250 dinar banknote (1995)

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