Bangladesh Bank

The Bangladesh Bank (বাংলাদেশ ব্যাংক) operates as the central monetary authority of a system formed through independence, notably marked by provisional “Joy Bangla” overprints on Pakistani rupee banknotes.

Quick Facts

Country: Bangladesh

Currency: Bangladeshi Taka

Local name: বাংলাদেশ ব্যাংক

Institutional Identity

Bangladesh Bank emerged rapidly from former State Bank of Pakistan structures in Dhaka, transforming into a fully independent issuing authority within months of independence. Its institutional identity is closely tied to this urgent monetary transition, where provisional overprints and early national issues established immediate circulation under newly formed sovereignty.

Historical Evolution

The first national banknotes introduced in 1972 featured the iconic “Map” design, displaying the outline of Bangladesh—one of the most recognizable motifs in South Asian numismatics. These issues followed the use of overprinted Pakistani rupees marked “Bangladesh” or “Joy Bangla,” creating a complex and highly collectible transitional series. This rapid shift from provisional currency to fully issued taka banknotes defines the foundation of Bangladesh’s monetary history.

Design Philosophy

Banknote design in Bangladesh is defined by strong national and cultural markers. The use of Bengali script and numerals distinguishes the currency visually, while key motifs include the Sixty Dome Mosque (Bagerhat), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the National Martyrs’ Memorial. Modern issues also highlight wildlife and natural themes, most notably the 2 taka banknote featuring the magpie robin, which received international recognition for its design quality in the early 2010s.

For collectors

For collectors, Bangladeshi banknotes are defined by their early provisional overprints and the iconic 1972 map series, both representing a rare case of rapid currency creation under independence conditions. The combination of “Joy Bangla” overprints, distinctive Bengali numerals and internationally recognized modern designs makes the Bangladeshi taka a rich and visually unique collecting field.

Explore Banknotes Issued by Bangladesh Bank