1966 South Vietnam 100 Đồng – Architectural Grandeur & Industrial Ambition
Pick# 18 | Printed by De La Rue, London
Issued during a period of political transition under the Military Revolutionary Council (1963–1967), the 1966 South Vietnam 100 Đồng banknote reflects the Republic’s aspirations for stability, modernization, and national development. Produced by the world‑renowned De La Rue in London, this note combines refined Western engraving with distinctly Vietnamese themes.
The obverse features an elegant domed building, symbolizing state authority and civic order. The reverse shifts to a powerful industrial scene—a power plant, dam, and water reservoir—capturing South Vietnam’s push toward infrastructure growth and economic modernization during the mid‑1960s.
Today, the 100 Đồng P‑18 stands as a visually striking and historically rich artifact from the final decade of the Republic of Vietnam.
Design Highlights
Obverse
Architectural building with domed roof, representing government structure and national administration
Clean, detailed engraving typical of De La Rue’s mid‑century production
Denomination 100 Đồng clearly displayed
Balanced layout with strong linework and classic South Vietnamese design elements
Reverse
Power plant, dam, and water reservoir, symbolizing industrial progress and the nation’s investment in energy and infrastructure
Emphasis on productivity and modernization during a period of rapid development
Denomination repeated prominently
Printer
De La Rue, London — one of the most respected banknote printers globally, known for high‑quality engraving and security features
Specifications
Attribute Details
Country South Vietnam
Ruling Authority Military Revolutionary Council (1963–1967)
Type Standard circulation banknote
Year 1966
Value 100 Đồng
Currency Southern đồng (1953–1975)
Composition Paper
Size 158 × 78 mm
Shape Rectangular
Demonetized Yes
Reference P‑18
Printer De La Rue, London
Why Add This Note to Your Collection?
This 1966 100 Đồng note is ideal for:
Collectors of Vietnam War–era currency
Fans of De La Rue–engraved banknotes
Enthusiasts of industrial and architectural themes
Curators of South Vietnamese monetary history
Anyone building a complete 1966 series
Its combination of elegant architecture and industrial imagery makes it one of the most visually balanced notes of the South Vietnamese period.
