The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has marked its 75th anniversary with the release of a striking new 2,000-rupee commemorative banknote (Pick B131) on 29 August 2025. Issued under the theme “Stability for Prosperity,” this note highlights the bank’s enduring role in fostering economic resilience as the foundation of national development.

The ongoing Sri Lanka Issues highlight the importance of this commemorative banknote in symbolizing resilience and hope for the future.

Originally planned for the 70th anniversary in 2020, the project was shelved due to the nation’s financial crisis. Now, five years later, this commemorative issue finally comes to life with a print run of 50 million notes.

This release comes at a time when Sri Lanka Issues are at the forefront of national discussions, reflecting the challenges and opportunities faced by the economy.

Understanding Sri Lanka Issues

Design & Features

The note reflects Sri Lanka’s cultural identity and modern financial aspirations through a carefully crafted design:

Denomination: 2,000 Rupees (US$11)
Dimensions: 151 × 67 mm
Colors: Blue, purple, and green

Front

Text in English, Sinhala, and Tamil
Official 75th anniversary logo
Colombo skyline silhouette
Central Bank headquarters building
Colombo Lighthouse Clock Tower
Lion holding sword as registration device

Back (Vertical Orientation)

Trilingual inscriptions (English, Sinhala, Tamil)
75th anniversary logo repeated
Stylized map of Sri Lanka
Water lily motif
Lion holding sword registration device

Security Features

Security Thread: 5-mm wide blue-to-green windowed thread with demetalized “Clock Tower” and “2000” text
Watermark: Lion holding sword with electrotype “2000” and Cornerstones
Printer: De La Rue (UK)

Issue Details

Date on note: 28 August 2025
Signature 19: Dissanayake / Weerasinghe
Prefix: CB
Introduction date: 29 August 2025

Symbolism and National Pride

Every element of this commemorative note underscores Sri Lanka’s 75 years of central banking:

Lion emblem – A long-standing national symbol of sovereignty and strength.
Colombo landmarks – Signifying economic growth and resilience.
Water lily – National flower, representing purity and heritage.
Anniversary logo – Reinforcing the milestone theme, “Stability for Prosperity.”

Collectors’ Significance

For numismatists, the B131 commemorative 2,000-rupee note carries immense appeal:

High denomination rarity – First 2,000-rupee note ever issued in Sri Lanka.
Historical milestone – Celebrating 75 years of central banking.
Limited release – With 50 million notes planned, availability outside Sri Lanka may remain restricted.
Vertical reverse design – A modern stylistic choice making the note stand out in global collections.

Conclusion

The introduction of Sri Lanka’s 2,000-rupee commemorative note marks both a historic milestone and a message of hope. Celebrating 75 years of monetary stewardship, this banknote embodies the Central Bank’s vision of stability, prosperity, and national pride—while offering collectors a unique and meaningful piece of Sri Lankan history.

Courtesy: Ada Derana, Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and contributions from the numismatic community.