National Bank of Romania
The National Bank of Romania operates as the central monetary authority overseeing a currency system notable for early adoption of polymer banknotes and continuous modernization.
Quick Facts
Institutional Identity
The National Bank of Romania serves as the country’s central monetary authority, overseeing monetary policy, financial stability and currency issuance while maintaining one of the most technologically advanced banknote systems in Europe.
Historical Evolution
Romania’s modern monetary identity is defined by two decisive turning points. The first is the iconic 2000 Lei solar eclipse banknote (1999), the first circulating polymer banknote in Europe and the Northern Hemisphere, featuring a transparent window ingeniously integrated with astronomical symbolism. The second is the 2005 redenomination, where 10,000 old lei (ROL) were replaced by 1 new leu (RON), marking a clear break from the inflationary era of the 1990s and establishing a stable modern currency framework.
Design Philosophy
Romanian banknotes are instantly recognisable for their vibrant vertical layout, transparent polymer windows and refined integration of portraiture with symbolic reverse imagery. Each denomination pairs a major cultural figure—such as Mihai Eminescu or Nicolae Iorga—with botanical elements on the obverse, while the reverse presents architectural or intellectual landmarks. The 2021 introduction of the 20 Lei banknote featuring Ecaterina Teodoroiu marked a historic milestone as the first circulating Romanian banknote to depict a female national figure. Produced using advanced polymer technology, these notes combine durability with exceptional colour clarity and tactile precision.
For collectors
For collectors, Romanian leu banknotes represent one of the most complete narratives in modern numismatics—from hyperinflation-era millions to cutting-edge polymer innovation. The 1999 solar eclipse issue stands as a global icon, while Romania is also home to the world’s smallest banknote, the 1917 10 Bani issue. Collectors often pursue the full transition from ROL to RON, alongside early polymer releases and modern vertical designs, valued for their durability, vivid preservation and technological significance within European currency history.