Laos Banknotes
🌾 Laos' Currency — A Canvas of Culture and Daily Life
Lao banknotes beautifully capture the essence of the country's traditions, landmarks, and everyday life. Each design offers a glimpse into Laos' agricultural roots, Buddhist heritage, and strong community values — making the nation's currency a true cultural artifact beyond its monetary function.
💵 About this 5 Kip Specimen Note (1957)
This 5 Kip specimen note, issued in 1957 (Pick #2s, Banknote Book #202as), represents a fascinating piece of Laos’ numismatic history. Printed by the renowned Security Banknote Company, the note features on its front the Wat Visoun, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang. Known for its distinctive lotus-shaped stupa and serene architecture, Wat Visoun embodies the spiritual heart of the country and symbolizes wisdom and devotion.
The reverse design highlights an ox cart, an iconic representation of traditional Lao rural life and agricultural heritage. The image honors the vital role of farming and animal labor in sustaining local livelihoods throughout the nation’s history.
Marked with a diagonal blue "SPECIMEN" overprint in the Lao language on the front and a horizontal blue "SPECIMEN" overprint on the back, this note carries the all-zero serial number (1-A 000000), confirming its non-circulating, archival status.
Graded PMG Gem Uncirculated 66 EPQ, this specimen stands out for its exceptional preservation, vibrant inks, and crisp paper quality. Such high-grade examples from this era are increasingly rare, adding significant appeal for collectors seeking prime examples of Southeast Asian currency.
💎 Collector’s Appeal
Highly prized for its historical and cultural significance, this 5 Kip specimen note is a standout addition to any specialized collection. Its blend of religious architecture and agricultural imagery showcases Laos’ unique identity and offers collectors a tangible connection to the country's mid-20th-century heritage.
🔗 Related Collectible Treasures
Explore other rare finds in our Graded Banknotes and Specimen Banknotes sections. You can also discover more world rarities in our World Banknotes collection, or learn more about the fascinating story of specimen notes in our detailed blog article on specimen notes.