1998 Sri Lanka 200 Rupees – Celebrating 50 Years of Independence
Discover the 1998 Sri Lanka 200 Rupees commemorative banknote (P-114b), a unique polymer note issued to mark the 50th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence. This special edition currency reflects the nation’s progress and cultural heritage.
Historical Context
Issued by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, this 200 Rupees note was released on February 4, 1998, alongside three commemorative coins. It was the first polymer banknote ever issued in Sri Lanka, printed by Note Printing Australia Limited.
Key Features & Specifications
Pick Number: P-114b
Denomination: 200 Sri Lankan Rupees
Material: Polymer (Guardian® substrate)
Issuing Authority: Central Bank of Sri Lanka
Size: 146 × 74 mm
Printer: Note Printing Australia Limited
Watermark: Lion holding a sword
Security Thread: Embedded for authenticity
Serial Prefix: N (Red and Orange serial variations)
Demonetized: No, but rarely seen in circulation
Design Elements
Front: Features an artist’s impression of Independence Memorial Hall in Colombo, alongside a panel illustrating Sri Lanka’s progress over 50 years, including:
Free education and health services
Gal Oya development project
Electricity expansion
Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall
Mahaweli development project
Telecommunications growth
Investment Promotion Zone
New Parliament Complex in Sri Jayewardenepura, Kotte
Industrial development
Colombo city and port modernization
Unity and peace among religious communities
Back: Showcases an artist’s impression of the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, alongside historical scenes depicting:
The arrival of Prince Vijaya (5th Century BCE)
The introduction of Buddhism by Arahant Mahinda (248 BCE)
King Dutugemunu uniting Sri Lanka (2nd Century BCE)
The construction of Sigiriya Rock Fortress (6th Century CE)
King Parakramabahu’s Sea of Parakrama (12th Century CE)
The Portuguese invasion (16th Century CE)
Lettering on the Note
The front of the note includes the official statement: "This banknote issued on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka is legally valid for payment of any amount within Sri Lanka."
Additionally, the note features:
"Central Bank of Sri Lanka" in Sinhala, Tamil, and English
Denomination ("200 Rupees") in multiple locations
Independence 1948–1998 in Sinhala, Tamil, and English
Collector’s & Gift Appeal
This 200 Rupees banknote holds significant historical and artistic value, making it a sought-after item for collectors and a unique keepsake. It’s a perfect gift for: ✨ History enthusiasts – A tribute to Sri Lanka’s independence and national progress. ✨ Individuals born in 1998 – A nostalgic banknote from their birth year, connecting them to Sri Lanka’s currency history. ✨ Collectors of polymer banknotes – The first polymer note issued in Sri Lanka, making it a rare and valuable piece.
Why Collect This Banknote?
Owning the 1998 Sri Lanka 200 Rupees note is more than just acquiring currency—it’s holding a piece of history, celebrating Sri Lanka’s journey from independence to modernization.
