Kenya – 10 Shillings – 14 October 1989 Pick# 24a | Numista# 206326

Issued during a period of national consolidation and educational investment, the 1989 Kenya 10 Shillings note reflects the country’s emphasis on unity, learning, and leadership under President Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi. This note, part of Kenya’s standard circulation series, features symbolic imagery tied to youth development and institutional pride, notably Kabarnet High School—an emblem of academic aspiration in Baringo County. The design integrates national motifs and aspirational themes, underscoring Kenya’s post-independence identity and its commitment to progress through education.

Issuer
Central Bank of Kenya (Banki Kuu ya Kenya)

Date of Issue
14.10.1989

Denomination
10 Shillings (KES)

Currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Catalog References
Pick# 24a, Numista# 206326

Signatories
Eric Cheruiyot Kotut & Charles Mbindyo

Dimensions
140 × 72 mm

Material
Paper

Printer
De La Rue, London

Obverse Design
Features a front-facing bust of President Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi at right, flanked by a rose motif and the Kenyan coat of arms. The inscription “HARAMBE” (Swahili for “all pull together”) reinforces the national ethos of unity and collective effort. Text includes “BANKI KUU YA KENYA” and “SHILINGI KUMI” (Ten Shillings).

Reverse Design
Depicts Kabarnet Boys High School with Mount Kenya in the background. A diploma and skeleton key symbolize education and opportunity, while four students in academic robes represent Kenya’s investment in youth and learning. The layout integrates natural and institutional elements to convey aspiration and national pride.

Designer
Not officially credited; design attributed to Central Bank of Kenya in collaboration with De La Rue.

Security Features
Watermark: Lion head
Solid embedded security thread
Microtext and fine-line engraving
UV-reactive elements (on later issues)