The Egyptian Pound, a symbol of Egypt’s rich history and cultural heritage, has undergone subtle yet significant changes over the years. One remarkable edition, circulated from 2016 to 2022, showcases not only the currency’s evolution in design and security features but also the nation’s pride in its illustrious past. This article takes an in-depth look at the 1 Egyptian Pound banknote issued during this period, exploring its physical characteristics, the historical symbols portrayed, and the artistic craftsmanship that encapsulates Egypt’s identity.
Physical Characteristics of the 2016-2022 Egyptian Pound Banknote
The 1 Egyptian Pound banknote issued between 2016 and 2022 is a testament to meticulous design and robust security features tailored to combat counterfeiting while celebrating Egyptian culture.
Material and Size
- Shape & Material: The banknote is rectangular and made from traditional paper material, chosen for durability and print quality.
- Dimensions: It measures 140 mm in length and 70 mm in height—dimensions comfortable for handling and recognition.
- Printing Technique: It utilizes the intaglio printing method, a raised printing technique that provides tactile surface elements that can be felt by touch, enhancing both the note’s security and user accessibility.
Color Scheme
The banknote primarily incorporates earthy tones of brown and orange, lending it a distinctive appearance reminiscent of the country’s desert landscapes and ancient artifacts.
Detailed Examination of the Obverse Side
The obverse side of the banknote is a window into Egypt’s Islamic architectural grandeur and its storied past as a center of medieval civilization.
Denominational Markings
Starting from the left to the right of the banknote, you can find the following:
- The numeral "1 Junayh" (meaning one pound in Arabic) appearing clearly on both the bottom left and top right corners, aiding quick denomination recognition.
- A sophisticated watermark depicting the famed Mask of King Tutankhamun, an iconic golden funerary mask emblematic of the New Kingdom and symbolizing ancient Egypt’s regal heritage.
- The year of printing is inscribed in Arabic based on the Gregorian calendar, anchoring the banknote in its contemporary context.
Architectural Iconography: Sultan Qaytbay Mosque and Mausoleum
Dominating the center of the obverse side is the detailed illustration of the Mosque and Mausoleum of Sultan Qaytbay, situated in Cairo’s renowned Northern Cemetery (the Mamluk cemetery).
- This monument, constructed between 1470 and 1474, is a pinnacle of late Mamluk architecture, celebrated for its intricate arabesques, geometric patterns, and ornamental stonework.
- Sultan Qaytbay, who reigned from 1468 to 1496, was a formidable ruler known for stabilizing the region and ushering in a refined architectural era distinguished by detailed craftsmanship.
- The mosque complex includes residential areas and public utilities, reflecting the multifunctional nature of Mamluk Islamic architecture.
- Beneath the central image, the Arabic inscription reads “Masjid us Sultan Qaytbay 1472 to 1474”, grounding the scene in historical authenticity and cultural pride.
Security and Authenticity Features
- A rapid windowed security thread with motion effects extends vertically and is visible from both sides, providing a modern anti-counterfeit measure.
- The text “Albank Almarkaziyi AlMisri” (Central Bank of Egypt) is elegantly scripted in Kufic script, echoing traditional Arabic calligraphy.
- The banknote also features the signature of the Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt, with serial numbers printed in black magnetic ink at strategic locations (top left and bottom right corners) for tracking and authenticity verification.
Insights into the Reverse Side
While the obverse pays homage to Egypt’s Islamic and medieval heritage, the reverse side celebrates the grandeur of ancient Egypt, featuring some of its most monumental temples and artifacts.
Primary Visuals and Text Elements
- The denominational numeral "1" appears in English on both the bottom left and top right corners, complemented by the text “Central Bank of Egypt” printed in English to ensure universal comprehensibility.
- At the heart of this side lies the astonishing depiction of the main entrance to the Great Temple at Abu Simbel, a phenomenal ancient monument located in Southern Egypt.
The Great Temple of Abu Simbel
- Constructed during the 13th century BCE under Pharaoh Ramesses II, the Abu Simbel temples are among the most breathtaking architectural wonders of ancient Egypt and a lasting vestige of its power and religious devotion.
- The site comprises two colossal rock-cut temples nested on the western bank of Lake Nasser, near the Sudanese border.
- The Great Temple is especially famous for its four gigantic seated statues of Ramesses II, each standing approximately 65 feet tall, symbolizing the pharaoh’s divine authority.
- The temple’s interiors are elaborately adorned with carvings and hieroglyphics highlighting Ramesses II’s reign, religious ceremonies, and battles, notably the Battle of Kadesh.
- The entire complex was relocated in 1968 to save it from the waters of Lake Nasser following the construction of the Aswan High Dam—a monumental feat commemorated internationally.
The Smaller Temple and Other Details
- Nearby is the Temple of Hathor and Nefertari, dedicated to Ramesses II’s chief wife, Nefertari, and the goddess Hathor, featuring beautifully carved statues approximately 33 feet tall.
- Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and cartouches identification are integrated into the design, including:
- Cartouche 1: Translates to “Nefertari, Beloved of the goddess Mut”—honoring Nefertari’s revered status.
- Cartouche 2: Means “The Son of God Re – The Beloved of God Amon,” a royal title of Ramesses II.
- The background includes subtle underprints from the Luxor Temple, another majestic site dedicated to the rejuvenation and crowning of pharaohs.
Denominational Marking
The phrase “ONE POUND” in English appears prominently, completing the banknote’s bilingual approach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why was the Mask of King Tutankhamun chosen for the watermark?
The funerary mask symbolizes Egypt’s illustrious ancient civilization and royal heritage. It serves both as a cultural emblem and a security feature, making counterfeiting more difficult.
2. What makes the Sultan Qaytbay Mosque architecturally significant?
The mosque exemplifies late Mamluk art with detailed arabesques, geometric designs, and multifunctionality, combining religious, residential, and social functions, showcasing the era’s architectural sophistication.
3. How was the Abu Simbel temple relocated?
To protect it from flooding caused by the Aswan High Dam’s reservoir, the temples were carefully cut into large blocks and rebuilt on higher ground starting in 1964, supervised by international teams including Polish archaeologists.
4. What printing technique is used on the banknote?
The intaglio technique, involving raised printing, allows features on the note to be felt by touch, aiding accessibility and elevating security against counterfeiting.
5. Are there bilingual elements on the banknote?
Yes, Arabic and English texts appear on both sides, facilitating understanding for both local and international users.
Conclusion
The 1 Egyptian Pound banknote issued from 2016 to 2022 is more than just currency; it is a carefully crafted piece of art that reflects Egypt’s rich historical layers—from ancient pharaohs to Islamic rulers—through iconic images and advanced security features. By marrying timeless cultural heritage with modern technology, this banknote offers a tangible connection to Egypt’s past while serving the practical needs of the present. Whether you are a collector, historian, or everyday user, the note underscores the profound story embedded in Egypt’s evolving identity.