Algeria 2000 Dinar

Key Information

1. Overview

In honor of the 31st regular session of the Arab League Summit held in Algiers and the 60th anniversary of Algeria’s independence, the Bank of Algeria introduced a commemorative 2000-dinar banknote into circulation on November 2, 2022. This issuance was in accordance with decrees No. 22-02 and 22-03, dated October 18, 2022, concerning the creation, issuance, and circulation of this commemorative banknote.

Front Side (Vertical Orientation)

The obverse of the banknote, following a vertical format, symbolizes “Liberation and Independence.” Key elements include:

• The Martyrs’ Memorial (Maqam Ech-Chahid), a national monument commemorating those who died in Algeria’s War of Independence.
• The map of the Arab world positioned at the top of the memorial.
• The logo of the Arab League Summit at the base of the monument.
• A depiction of young people raising the Algerian flag, celebrating independence.
• Decorative patterns on both sides of the memorial.

Reverse Side

The reverse side of the banknote, presented in four colors, features:

• The minaret of Djamaa El Djazair Mosque, the tallest in the world.
• The Hoggar Mountains, depicted in the upper left corner with a transparent polymer window crossing the scene.
• Coastal mountains in the lower left corner.
• The Roman ruins of Tipaza on the right side.
• A palm tree and a caravan of dromedaries at the base of the minaret.

2. Material and Security Features

This new banknote is composed of two layers of paper with a polymer core, a DuraSafe composite, providing durability and strength while incorporating innovative security features.

Key Characteristics

• Colors: Green, blue, red, and brown.
• Size: 158 × 72 mm.
• Material: DuraSafe composite.
• Issuer: Bank of Algeria.

Security Features

• Holographic security thread with transparent windows and demetallized numerals “1962 / 2022”.
• Watermark featuring Emir Abdelkader and the banknote denomination (2000).
• SPARK Element: A dynamic, color-shifting security feature.

Controversy and International Reactions

The introduction of English text on the banknote design sparked discussions in France, with some analysts interpreting it as a signal of Algeria’s shifting linguistic priorities.

3. Banknote of the Year Nomination

The International Bank Note Society (IBNS) annually hosts the Banknote of the Year competition, recognizing the best banknotes based on design and security features. In 2022, Algeria’s 2000-dinar banknote ranked 4th, behind entries from the Philippines, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

Over the competition’s twenty-year history, only two African nations have won:

• Comoros (2006) with a 1000-franc banknote.
• Uganda (2010) with a 50,000-shilling note.

Historical and Cultural Elements Featured on the Banknote

1. Emir Abdelkader (1808–1883)

A national hero, Emir Abdelkader was a theologian, military leader, and founder of the Algerian state. He led resistance against French colonization in the 19th century and was respected even by his adversaries for his military and humanitarian principles.

Key Milestones

• Born in 1808 in Mascara to a noble family, he received traditional Islamic education.
• Led resistance against French occupation (1832–1847), uniting various Algerian tribes.
• Established the Algerian Emirate, implementing administrative and military reforms.
• Surrendered in 1847 after prolonged resistance but was imprisoned by France until 1852.
• Moved to the Ottoman Empire (Damascus), where he focused on theology and philosophy.
• Gained international recognition for protecting Christians during the 1860 Damascus Massacre.
• Died in 1883; his remains were transferred to Algeria in 1966.

Interesting Facts

• Advocated religious tolerance and dialogue, earning global respect.
• His legacy is honored in Algeria and France, with streets named after him.
• Recognized by UNESCO in 2018 as a global symbol of peace and dialogue.

2. The Martyr’s Memorial

The Martyr’s Memorial, also known as the Mausoleum of Glory and Martyrdom, is a monument in Algeria erected to honor those who fell in the country’s War of Independence (1954–62). It was inaugurated on July 5, 1982, the twentieth anniversary of Algerian independence. It also appears on the 200 dinar banknote issued in 1983.

Description of the monument:

• Height: The total height of the monument is 92 meters.
• Architecture: The monument consists of three concrete petals converging at the top, symbolizing the traditional palm leaves. Each petal is topped by a statue of a soldier, representing the different branches of the armed forces that participated in the struggle for independence.
• Location: The monument is located on a hill with a panoramic view of the city of Algiers, which emphasizes its importance and makes it visible from different points in the city.

Interesting facts:

• The Martyr’s Memorial is often called the “Algerian Eiffel Tower” not only because of its height, but also because of its unique shape, which has become a symbol of the city.
• At the base of the monument is the Eternal Flame, symbolizing the memory of the fallen heroes.
• Inside the complex are museums dedicated to the history of Algeria’s struggle for independence, where exhibits with photographs, documents and artifacts from that period are presented.

The Martyr’s Memorial is not only a historical monument, but also an important cultural site that attracts tourists and reminds of the value of freedom and independence for the Algerian people.

3. Flag of Algeria

The national flag of Algeria is a rectangular panel with a 2:3 aspect ratio, divided into two equal vertical stripes: green (at the flagpole) and white. In the center of the flag are a red crescent and a five-pointed star, facing right.

• Symbolism of colors and elements of the flag:
• Green symbolizes Islam, the main religion of the country.
• White represents purity and peace.
• The red crescent and star are traditional symbols of Islam and reflect Algeria’s belonging to the Islamic world.

History of the flag:

The modern flag of Algeria was officially adopted on July 3, 1962, after gaining independence from France. It is believed that the design of the flag dates back to the symbolism used by Abdelkader in the 19th century, the leader of the resistance to French colonization. In 1934, Emilie Bouscant created the first version of the flag, which was later adopted by the National Liberation Front (FLN) during the struggle for independence.

Interesting facts:

• The Algerian naval flag is identical to the national flag, but in the upper left corner (near the flagpole) there are two crossed anchors.
• During the Ottoman era in Algeria (16th-19th centuries), flags of various colors were used, each depicting one or more crescents. The colors included dark red, black, green, and white. Monochrome flags were also used, such as black, which signaled death.

The flag of Algeria is an important national symbol, reflecting the historical heritage, religious traditions, and the people’s desire for independence and peace.

4. The League of Arab States

The League of Arab States (LAS) is an international organisation that brings together Arab countries to coordinate their actions and strengthen ties in various fields. It was founded on 22 March 1945 in Cairo.

The main objectives of the LAS are:

• Strengthening ties between Arab states.
• Coordination of political action.
• Co-operation in the economic, cultural and social spheres.

LAS currently consists of 22 member states, including Palestine.

Interesting facts:

• Founding: The idea of LAS was favoured by British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden in 1943, helping to unite Arab countries.
• Headquarters: Located in Cairo, Egypt.
• Languages: The official language of LAS is Arabic.
• Flag: The LAS flag is a green cloth with the organisation’s emblem in the centre surrounded by 22 stars representing the member states.
• Economic cooperation: The LAS plays an important role in promoting economic cooperation among Arab countries, including the establishment of free trade zones and joint economic projects.

The Arab League continues to be a key player in the political and economic life of the Arab world, seeking to foster unity and co-operation among its members.

5. Minaret of Djamaa El Djazair Mosque

The minaret of the Jamaa el-Jazair Mosque in Algeria is the tallest in the world, reaching a height of 265 metres.

Construction of the mosque began in 2012 and was completed in April 2019.

Interesting facts:

• The minaret has 37 storeys, and visitors can climb to the top to enjoy spectacular views of the city.
• The mosque is the third largest in the world after al-Haram Mosque in Mecca and Masjid al-Nabawi in Medina.
• The mosque complex includes conference halls, libraries and other facilities, covering an area of 440,000 m² in the bay of Algiers.

The mosque was officially inaugurated in February 2024 with the participation of Algerian President Abdelmajid Tebboun, members of the government and theologians from different parts of the Muslim world.

6. The Hoggar mountains

The Hoggar (or Ahaggar) mountain massif is located in the central Sahara in southern Algeria, south-east of the city of Tamanrasset. It is a ledge of crystalline basement with an average height of 2,000 metres. The highest point is Mount Tahat, at 2,918 metres (other reports say 3,003 metres), which is also the highest point in Algeria.

Interesting facts about Hoggar:

• Age: The rocks of Hoggar expose the basement of the Saharan Platform, which came to the surface about 2 billion years ago, making it one of the oldest geological formations on the planet.
• Climate: Due to the altitude and terrain features, the climate in Hoggara is cooler and wetter than the surrounding desert, favouring a unique flora and fauna.
• Cultural significance: Hoggar is the historical homeland of the Tuareg people, nomads of Berber origin, who preserve many legends and myths associated with this highland.
• Natural features: The highlands are known for their unusual rock formations, formed by erosion and winds, which give the landscape a fantastic appearance.
• National Park: The Hoggar area is part of the Ahaggar National Park, which was created to protect the unique natural and cultural values of the region.

Hoggar attracts travellers with its rich history, culture and spectacular scenery, being one of the symbols of the Sahara and Algeria.

7. Ancient city Tipaza

Tipaza is an ancient city in Algeria, located on the Mediterranean coast, about 68 kilometres west of the capital, Algiers. It is known for its significant archaeological sites reflecting the rich history of the region.

History of Tipaza:

• Phoenician period: Founded by the Phoenicians in the 6th century BC, Tipaza served as an important trading post on the North African coast.
• Roman period: In 46 AD, after the conquest of Mauretania by the Roman Emperor Claudius, Tipaza was granted the status of a municipality with Latin rights and later became a Roman colony. The city developed vigorously and numerous public buildings and structures were constructed.

The main Roman ruins in Tipaza:

• Forum: The central square of the city, surrounded by public and religious buildings.
• Theatre and Amphitheatre: Structures for theatrical performances and gladiatorial fights.
• Thermae: Roman baths that served as a place of relaxation and socialisation for the citizens.
• Capitol: The city’s main temple dedicated to the Roman gods.
• Nymphaeum: A sanctuary dedicated to the nymphs, often associated with water springs.
• Basilicas: The remains of three churches – the Great Basilica, the Basilica of Alexander and the Basilica of St Salsa – reflecting the early spread of Christianity in the region.

In 1982, the archaeological complex of Tipaza was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as ‘exceptional evidence of a vanished civilisation’.

Today, Tipaza attracts tourists from all over the world, offering a unique opportunity to touch the rich history and culture of the ancient Mediterranean.

8. Tassili n’Ajjer National Park

Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, located in the south-eastern part of Algeria, is known for its unique natural formations, among which stand out numerous natural stone arches. These arches were formed by long processes of erosion of sandstone rocks, creating impressive landscapes reminiscent of a stone forest or Martian landscapes.

The Tassili n’Ajjer Plateau, covering an area of about 72 thousand km², is a powerful mountain massif composed of sandstones. About 15,000 rock paintings have been discovered on its territory, making it the world’s largest ‘collection’ of ancient rock art.

These natural arches and other geological formations make Tassili n’Ajjer an attractive destination for tourists and explorers, offering a unique opportunity to see the results of centuries of natural forces influencing the landscape.

Enhanced Security Features

To safeguard against counterfeiting and verify its authenticity, the 2022 commemorative 2000-dinar banknote is equipped with cutting-edge security features, including:

• Watermark – A translucent image of the Great Mosque of Algiers, visible when held up to the light.
• Security Thread – A vertically embedded strip that shifts colors when tilted, enhancing security.
• Microprinting – Minuscule text that is only visible under magnification, making replication extremely challenging.
• Holographic Patch – A reflective security element located on the right side of the note, reinforcing visual authenticity.
• Color-Shifting Ink – The number “2000” alters its hue depending on the viewing angle.
• UV Light Features – Special security patterns and inscriptions that appear only under ultraviolet light.
• Tactile Printing (Intaglio) – Raised ink on key elements, including the mosque’s image and denomination, enabling visually impaired individuals to recognize the note by touch.

These sophisticated security measures ensure the banknote remains highly secure, visually distinctive, and serves as a tribute to Algeria’s role in the Arab League.

1. DuraSafe composite material for banknotes

DuraSafe is an innovative banknote material developed by the Swiss company Landqart AG. It is a combination of two paper layers with a thin layer of polymer material between them.

Features and advantages of DuraSafe:

1. Strength and durability

• Due to the polymer layer, banknotes made of DuraSafe are more resistant to wear, tearing and soiling than traditional cotton paper.
• The average lifespan of these banknotes is longer, reducing replacement costs.

2. Improved anti-counterfeiting protection

• Transparent windows (like polymer banknotes) can be integrated into the banknote structure, making them more difficult to counterfeit.
• Modern security features such as holographic threads, hidden images and special coatings can be easily integrated into the material.

3. Design flexibility

• DuraSafe-based banknotes can be printed in a traditional style (as on paper) or supplemented with polymer inserts to create a unique look.
• It is possible to combine complex graphic elements and innovative security technologies.

Global applications of DuraSafe

Banknotes made of this material are produced in several countries. For example:

• Switzerland used DuraSafe for the 50 franc commemorative banknote (2015).
• Morocco and Algeria have issued commemorative banknotes made of DuraSafe.

In this way, DuraSafe combines the traditional look of paper banknotes with the strength of a polymer, making it one of the most advanced materials in the banknote industry.

2. Spark element

The Spark element is an innovative security feature used on banknotes, which is a holographic image that changes depending on the angle of the banknote. It is a security element that provides authentication and counterfeit prevention.

The features of the Spark element are:

1. Holographic effect

Spark element is a shimmering holographic pattern that can include various images or symbols (e.g. police, flag, numbers and other elements). The image changes when the angle of the banknote changes, making it difficult to copy.

2. Simple and fast verification method

To verify the authenticity of a banknote, simply tilt the banknote and the image or text on the Spark element will change, making it easy to see and verify.

3. Multifunctionality

Spark elements can be embedded in different parts of a banknote. They are often used for anti-counterfeiting purposes and can be added to different areas of banknotes including pictures, backgrounds or text blocks.

4. Interactivity

In addition to holographic effects, Spark elements can include animated images or digital elements that only become visible under certain conditions.

5. Counterfeit resistance

Spark elements are part of the multi-layered security of banknotes and incorporate state-of-the-art technology. Their complexity and variability make them difficult to reproduce, even using the most advanced counterfeiting techniques.

Examples of banknotes with the Spark element:

• 100 euros (Europa series, 2019)

Element: Spark Live on the denomination, which changes hue when tilted.

• 100 Swiss francs (2019 series)

Element: Spark Ink on the hand image, which changes hue.

• 1000 Ukrainian Hryvnia (2019)

Element: when the banknote is tilted, the crystal image on the right side changes colour from gold to green.

Many other countries also use Spark elements in their banknotes to increase security and provide a quick way to verify their authenticity.

Circulation and Collectibility

The Algeria 2000 dinars 2022 commemorative banknote was released in limited quantities, making it a highly desirable piece among collectors and numismatists.

• Limited Edition – As a special issue, this banknote was printed in restricted numbers, increasing its rarity over time.
• Collector’s Appeal – With its historical significance, distinctive design, and advanced security features, the note is highly valued by collectors.
• Market Worth – Uncirculated and well-preserved specimens often command premium prices in numismatic markets.
• Legal Status – While it is officially recognized as legal tender, most individuals and businesses prefer to keep it as a collectible rather than use it in everyday transactions.

The 2022 Algeria 2000 dinars commemorative banknote represents a perfect fusion of art, history, and innovation. It serves as a symbol of Algeria’s cultural heritage, commitment to regional unity, and advancements in monetary security, making it a prized addition to any numismatic collection and an important part of the nation’s banking legacy.

Research conducted by:
Serhiy Trushyn
IBNS Regional Director
07.03.2025

© 2025 Serhiy Trushyn. All rights reserved.