1973 Qatar 10 Riyals Banknote – Qatar Monetary Agency | P#3 | EP‑3 | N#224834
The 1973 Qatar 10 Riyals banknote is one of the earliest issues released by the Qatar Monetary Agency following the country’s monetary independence. Issued on 19 May 1973 under the rule of Emir Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, this note reflects the emerging national identity of Qatar through its arabesque motifs, bilingual layout, and strong symbolic imagery.
Printed by Bradbury Wilkinson & Co. in the United Kingdom, this note is now fully demonetized, making surviving examples increasingly sought after by collectors of Gulf‑region and Middle Eastern currency.
Key Specifications
Location: Qatar
Issuing Institution: Qatar Monetary Agency
Emir: Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani (1972–1995)
Type: Standard circulation banknote
Year: 1973
Value: 10 Riyals (10 QAR)
Currency: Riyal (1973–present)
Composition: Paper
Size: 151 × 66 mm
Shape: Rectangular
Issued: 19 May 1973
Demonetized: Yes
References: P#3 / EP‑3 / N#224834
Printer: Bradbury Wilkinson & Co.
Watermark: Falcon’s head
Design Overview
Obverse
A multicoloured design dominated by green tones, enriched with traditional arabesque patterns and fine linework. Arabic text appears throughout, with serial numbers printed in black. The right side features the coat of arms of Qatar in a rosette, depicting a dhow, crossed swords, and palm trees — a strong emblem of national heritage.
Reverse
The reverse presents a detailed view of the headquarters of the Qatar Monetary Agency, symbolising the nation’s financial development. English text is used here, with the denomination “10” in all four corners. The arabesque background continues the visual theme of the series.
Security Features
Falcon’s head watermark
Signature of Abdulaziz Al‑Thani, Minister of Finance
High‑quality intaglio engraving typical of Bradbury Wilkinson
Collector Appeal
Early Qatar Monetary Agency Issue – A foundational note from Qatar’s first modern currency series.
Demonetized & Increasingly Scarce – No longer legal tender, boosting collector demand.
Classic Gulf‑Era Aesthetic – Arabesques, bilingual text, and national symbols define the era.
High‑Quality British Printing – Crisp engraving and colour layering from Bradbury Wilkinson.
Strong Middle Eastern Numismatic Interest – Qatar’s early notes remain highly collectible.
Summary
The 1973 Qatar 10 Riyals (P#3 / EP‑3) is a historically significant early‑issue banknote that blends national symbolism with elegant arabesque design. Featuring the Qatar coat of arms, the Monetary Agency headquarters, and a falcon‑head watermark, it stands as a key piece for collectors of Gulf currency and early Qatar Monetary Agency issues.
