The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan has announced a new “New Generation” series of Ngultrum banknotes to commemorate the 70th birth anniversary of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The series uses polymer substrate with updated security features and is positioned as more durable and recyclable than paper notes, while all previously issued ngultrum banknotes will remain legal tender. The new designs cover BTN 1,000, BTN 500 and BTN 100 denominations, featuring portraits of Bhutan’s monarchs and national motifs including Tongsa Dzong, Punakha Dzong and Tashicho Dzong. Common security and design elements include a foil stripe depicting a dragon holding jewels and watermarks featuring a portrait of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck alongside a cross-vajra. The Authority expects the new notes to enter circulation from January 2026.
Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan 2025-11-13
Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan announces new polymer Ngultrum banknote series commemorating the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s 70th birth anniversary
The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan announced a "New Generation" series of Ngultrum banknotes to commemorate the 70th birth anniversary of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The polymer notes, featuring updated security elements and national motifs, will be more durable and recyclable than paper notes, with previous banknotes remaining legal tender. The new BTN 1,000, BTN 500, and BTN 100 notes are expected to circulate from January 2026.