1997 Turkey 5 Million Lira Banknote – National Legacy & Monumental Pride | Pick# 210
The 1997 Turkey 5 Million Lira banknote (Pick #210) is a bold expression of national pride and historical reverence. Issued by the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey, this high-denomination note emerged during a period of economic transition and inflation, yet its design remains a tribute to enduring Turkish identity and the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
Design Highlights
Obverse (Front):
Dominated by a dignified portrait of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic, facing right
A radiating golden seal and a map of Turkey symbolize unity and sovereignty
The layout is formal and symmetrical, reflecting the gravitas of the denomination and the historical figure it honors
Reverse (Back):
Features the Anıtkabir complex in Ankara, the mausoleum of Atatürk, with the Road of Lions and a sculpture of three men at the entrance
A stylized flame motif adds symbolic depth, representing enlightenment and national spirit
The design is monumental, evoking themes of remembrance and reverence
Color Palette:
Rich tones of dark brown and red-brown over a multicolor underprint, conveying strength and solemnity
Key Specifications
Feature Description
Country Turkey
Issuer Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey
Series L.1970 (1997 Issue)
Pick Number P# 210
Denomination 5,000,000 Lira
Size 162 × 76 mm
Material Paper
Printer [Not publicly listed]
Security Features Watermark (Atatürk), Windowed security thread with demetalized "TCMB", Serial Numbers
Sources:
Why Collect This Note
This banknote is more than a product of economic necessity—it’s a monument in miniature. It reflects Turkey’s reverence for its founding father and its architectural grandeur. For collectors, it offers:
High-denomination inflation-era currency
Iconic Atatürk portrait and mausoleum imagery
Symbolic and monumental design elements
Historical context from Turkey’s late 20th-century economy
Ideal for those interested in Middle Eastern banknotes, political symbolism in currency, or inflation-era monetary history. The 1997 5 Million Lira note stands as a powerful artifact of national pride and economic storytelling.
