Red and pale violet engraving opens the first som denomination into a wider ceremonial field, where motion and ornament carry the authority of a new currency.

Design & Symbolism

Obverse

The obverse is led by an equestrian statue of Manas, shown with raised weapon and shield as the horse moves across the right side of the note. Kyrgyz ornamental forms occupy the left field, while the denomination, bank name, and signature sit within a spacious horizontal layout. The composition gives the first som issue a martial and legendary tone, linking state currency to the epic figure at the center of Kyrgyz cultural memory.

Reverse

The reverse turns from heroic motion to memorial architecture, placing the Manas Mausoleum in Talas within a red ornamental field. Geometric patterning, large denomination text, and pale background forms keep the design open while giving the monument a solemn central position. The mausoleum extends the obverse narrative from mounted legend into physical heritage, grounding the national epic in a historic site.

Collector’s Insight

For collectors, the 1 som issue marks the transition from fractional tyiyn notes into Kyrgyzstan’s first full som denomination under the post-Soviet monetary system. The CH prefix places this example within the provincial-prefix printing group introduced with the early 1993 currency release. With Nanaev’s signature, De La Rue production, and eagle-pattern watermark, it documents the first institutional form of the Kyrgyz som on paper.

Shipping & Guarantee

Each banknote is carefully handled and securely packed to ensure safe delivery. Authenticity is guaranteed.

Serial number and prefix may vary from the reference image.