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Doha – Bank Al-Maghrib has put into circulation a new 20-dirham banknote today, coinciding with the celebration of Youth Day in Morocco. This release follows the recent introductions of new 50, 100, and 200 dirham banknotes.
The new 20-dirham banknote highlights the rich architectural heritage and socio-cultural development of Morocco.
Its obverse features the portrait of King Mohammed VI, the coat of arms of the Kingdom, an architectural detail inspired by Moroccan portals, and a stylized view of Al Quaraouiyine University in Fez.
The reverse side displays artistic representations of the Grand Theatre of Rabat, Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, a grandstand of a sports complex, and a stylized view of the Kasbah of Ait-Ben-Haddou.
According to a press release from Bank Al-Maghrib, the new banknote incorporates several cutting-edge security elements, such as a dynamic, color-shifting security thread, an iridescent stripe on the back side, tactile relief features for visually impaired people, and progressive numbering.
The entire design and production process for this new banknote was carried out exclusively by Moroccan experts from Dar As-Sikkah.
The issuance of the new 20-dirham banknote on Youth Day is particularly significant. Youth Day, celebrated on August 21, marks the birthday of King Mohammed VI and serves as a moment to reflect on the King’s dedication to empowering youth and his visionary leadership over the past 25 years.
The history of Youth Day in Morocco traces back to July 1956, shortly after the country gained independence.
The late King Mohammed V decided to celebrate the birthday of his heir, Moulay Hassan – the future King Hassan II – and declared it “Youth Day” in response to the desires of Moroccan youth themselves.
Although the widespread celebrations of Youth Day were discontinued by King Mohammed VI in 2019, the holiday remains a significant part of the Kingdom’s history as one of its earliest and oldest celebrated occasions.
The release of the new 20-dirham banknote follows the recent introductions of new banknotes in other denominations.
On November 24, 2023, Bank Al-Maghrib issued a new 100-dirham banknote highlighting the cultural heritage of the Moroccan Sahara, its socio-economic development, and its openness to Africa.
On January 12, a new 200-dirham banknote was introduced, emphasizing the economic and industrial development achieved under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, focusing on infrastructure, industry, and development.
Most recently, on July 30, a new 50-dirham banknote was put into circulation, featuring stunning illustrations of Morocco’s sustainable development initiatives and showcasing the country’s commitment to clean energy and natural resource conservation.
Read also: Morocco’s Central Bank Forms Committee to Tackle Cash Circulation Surge
