Sudan Introduces New 500 and 2,000 Pound Banknotes Amid Economic Turmoil
In November 2025, the Central Bank of Sudan officially announced the issuance of two new banknotes—a revised 500-pound note and the country’s first-ever 2,000-pound denomination—each dated June 2025. Printed on cotton paper by the Sudan Currency Printing Press, the notes feature the Secretary Bird watermark, a national symbol representing the country’s heritage and identity during a period marked by civil conflict and hyperinflation.
• Denominations: 500 and 2,000 Sudanese pounds
• Date of issue: June 2025
• Printer: Sudan Currency Printing Press (SCPP)
• Security features: Secretary Bird watermark, windowed security threads, tactile markings
• Printed on 100% cotton paper
500 Sudanese Pounds — Features and Symbolism
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 156 × 66 mm |
| Color | Blue and brown tones |
| Obverse | Republican Palace in Khartoum, a historical landmark reclaimed in 2025 after conflict |
| Reverse | Confluence of the White Nile and Blue Nile rivers, symbolizing unity |
| Security | Secretary Bird watermark, CBOS windowed security thread, tactile markings for the visually impaired, hidden latent images |
| Material | 100% cotton paper |
| Printer | Sudan Currency Printing Press (SCPP) |
2,000 Sudanese Pounds — A New Denomination
The new 2,000-pound banknote is the highest denomination ever issued by Sudan. Measuring 160 × 72 mm and printed in green and yellow hues, it featuring Sudanese fauna on the front, highlighting the country’s agricultural heritage, including cattle. The reverse side showcases the ruins of the ancient Roman-style kiosk at Naqa (also known as Naga’a), an archaeological site significant to Sudan’s Kushite history.
Security features include the Secretary Bird watermark, an enhanced windowed security thread with geometric patterns and CBOS initials, a color-shifting bird-shaped element, hidden images, intaglio printing, and tactile marks for visually impaired users.
Robust Security Features to Combat Counterfeiting
- Watermark of the Secretary Bird with the banknote denomination ensures high authenticity.
- Windowed security strip featuring the letters “CBOS” and a geometric motif provides visual verification under light.
- The 2,000-pound note includes an additional color-shifting bird element for enhanced security.
- High-resolution intaglio printing creates tactile surface details and durability.
- Tactile edge markings improve usability for visually impaired banknote users.
- Hidden latent images and microtext offer further physical security layers.
Economic Context and Currency Challenges
Sudan’s introduction of higher denomination banknotes is driven by an acute economic crisis. Since April 2023, a devastating civil war has led to widespread infrastructure damage and displacement, triggering a 472% devaluation of the Sudanese pound against the US dollar on the parallel market.
Monetary Policy Dilemmas
The Central Bank is balancing between printing new currency to fund government operations and efforts to stabilize the exchange rate amid inflation and a divided economy.
Dual Currency Circulation
While the Sudanese Armed Forces controlled territories use the new banknotes, rebel-held regions continue circulation of old notes and foreign currencies such as the US dollar and Chadian riel, complicating economic cohesion.
Collector Insights: Crisis Currency with Historical Significance
For banknote collectors, Sudan’s new currency notes represent a poignant intersection of economic turmoil and rich cultural heritage. The first-ever 2,000-pound note marks a milestone in Sudanese numismatics.
FAQ — Sudan 2025 New Banknotes
When were the new 500 and 2,000 pound notes dated?
The notes bear the date June 2025, with the official announcement from the Central Bank of Sudan on November 6, 2025.
Why introduce a new 2,000 pound note?
Inflation and currency depreciation necessitated a higher denomination to facilitate daily transactions.
What is the Secretary Bird watermark?
The Secretary Bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) is Sudan’s national emblem, symbolizing strength and resilience, depicted as a watermark on these notes.
Are these notes already in circulation?
The Central Bank has not yet announced distribution details or full release into circulation.
How can collectors obtain these banknotes?
Due to ongoing conflict and economic difficulties, acquiring these notes through international channels may be limited and best pursued through specialized numismatic dealers.
Sources & References
- Geldscheine-Online: Sudan new banknotes announcement
- Central Bank of Sudan official website
- AllAfrica: Sudan economic overview and new notes
- Reuters: Sudan banknote policy and criticism
- Dabanga Sudan: Central Bank issues new notes
All information cross-checked with official sources and recent reputable news.
