China 10 Yuan Banknote – Chairman Mao & The Three Gorges (2005 Issue) Pick# 904a/904b | Numista# 204747
Issued by the People’s Bank of China in 2005, this 10 Yuan note belongs to the Fifth Series of Renminbi banknotes and features enhanced security upgrades over its 1999 predecessor. It celebrates both Chairman Mao Zedong, the founding father of modern China, and the natural grandeur of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. With its multilingual inscriptions and intricate design, this note reflects China’s ethnic diversity and national pride.
Design Highlights
Obverse:
Portrait of Mao Zedong facing left
Emblem of the People’s Republic of China (Tiananmen Gate with five stars)
Floral motif beneath the denomination
Lettering: 中国人民银行 (Zhōngguó rénmín yínháng – People's Bank of China)
Reverse:
Scenic view of the Three Gorges on the Yangtze River
Multilingual inscriptions in Mongolian, Tibetan, Uyghur, Zhuang, and Simplified Chinese
Vertical denomination and “YUAN” in pinyin added in 2005
Microtext repeating “10RMB” and “人民币” (Renminbi)
Color Scheme: Cool blue and grey tones, evoking the misty landscapes of the Yangtze River.
Key Specifications
Feature Description
Country China
Issuer People’s Bank of China
Series Fifth Series of Renminbi
Pick Number P# 904a / 904b
Denomination 10 Yuan
Size 140 × 70 mm
Material Paper
Watermark Rose flower
Printer China Banknote Printing and Minting Corporation
Year of Issue 2005
Security Features EURion constellation, microtext, latent image, raised ink, holographic thread, see-through register
Why Collect This Note
The 2005 China 10 Yuan note is a compelling blend of political legacy and natural beauty, making it ideal for:
Collectors of modern Chinese currency
Those interested in political history and national symbolism
Travelers and educators exploring China’s cultural diversity
Whether admired for its multilingual inclusivity, upgraded security features, or iconic imagery, this note is a standout piece in any Asia or world currency collection.
