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Auction: 23231 - World Banknotes - e-Auction
Lot: 48

Banque Nationale de Bulgarie, Bulgaria, specimen 5000 Leva, Sofia, 1924, serial number A 000000, the National Bank was founded on January 25, 1879 against the backdrop of the Unification of Bulgaria and emerged as a cornerstone of the nation's financial stability. In its early years, it navigated the complexities of post-war reconstruction, facing the dual challenges of territorial loss and reparations. As Bulgaria sought its place in the evolving European landscape, the National Bank played a pivotal role in formulating and implementing monetary policies, issuing the national currency -the Lev- and overseeing the stability of the financial system.
Amongst this turbulent historical backdrop, the echoes of Bulgarian poet Hristo Botev's passionate verses reverberated through the Bulgarian consciousness. Born in Kalofer on January 6, 1848, Botev's romantic idealist poetry mirrored the harsh realities of his time. Botev's life was filled with political activism, culminating in his participation in the April Uprising of 1876. This courageous rebellion, aimed at liberating Bulgaria from Ottoman rule, ended tragically with brutal suppression by the Ottomans. Botev's literary contributions, inspiring and resonating with contemporary patriotic fervour, became a beacon of hope during Bulgaria's struggle for independence.
The convergence of the National Bank's financial stewardship and Hristo Botev's poetic vision reveals a resilient nation striving for economic stability and independence. Their stories, woven together, form a tapestry that captures the essence of Bulgaria's journey - a tale of economic challenges, political upheavals, and the unwavering spirit of a people guided by the ideals of freedom and self-determination.
Amidst this landscape, a subtle yet remarkable addition entered the economic scene - one of the banknotes issued by the National Bank. The specimen 5000 Leva banknote, printed in Sofia in 1924 with the serial number A 000000, and the signatures of Bojadjiev and Venkov hold a special place in Bulgaria's cultural heritage. Affectionately nicknamed the "Botevka," this banknote features a portrait of Hristo Botev, a homage to the national hero and poet whose patriotic spirit transcends the confines of his time and continues to symbolise the indomitable spirit of the Bulgarian people. The note's condition upholds its significance beyond monetary value as a cultural artefact, acting as a tangible link to Bulgaria's history and cementing its place as a highlight in any Bulgarian collection
(Pick 41s, BNB 148as), the banknote is nicknamed Botevka, due to the portrait of Hristo Botev, good extremely fine, key note of the series, and a highlight in any Bulgaria collection, rare

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Sold for
£9,500

Starting price
£700