NovCambodia News
Cambodia puts new 50,000- and 100,000-riel banknotes into circulation
The two denominations were authorised through separate government sub-decrees. Agence Kampuchea Presse, citing the government measures and National Bank of Cambodia announcements, reported that both new notes entered circulation from the date of the announcement.
Old and new designs will circulate together
For anyone handling cash, the immediate change is that two different designs of the same high-value denominations may now appear in everyday transactions. The official report says the new notes will circulate alongside existing banknotes; it does not announce a withdrawal deadline or a compulsory exchange of the older versions.
An unfamiliar design is not, by itself, a reason to reject a note. The practical task is to recognise the denomination and become familiar with the security features used on the new series.
For practical context, see Cambodia economy and finance. This development also connects with Cambodia’s Chief Bank placed under provisional administration.
What has changed on the 50,000- and 100,000-riel notes
The new 50,000-riel banknote measures 155 × 72 mm and uses dark yellow and brown as its main colours. Its front shows former King Norodom Sihanouk with a seven-headed naga, while the reverse features Bakong Temple and a young elephant image based on stone carving from Koh Ker Temple.
The new 100,000-riel note measures 170 × 75 mm and is predominantly green and grey. It carries portraits of former King Norodom Sihanouk and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk on the front, with royal imagery and a Garuda figure inspired by a carving at Preah Khan Temple on the reverse.
According to National Bank of Cambodia information reported by AKP, both denominations include special symbols for people with visual impairments and a 10 mm hologram incorporating additional security technology. Those features are useful reference points as the new notes begin appearing in cash transactions.
Sources
- Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP), “Cambodia Issues New 50,000-Riel and 100,000-Riel Banknotes” — September 25, 2026.