Cyprus 10 Pounds Banknote – Artemis, Aphrodite & Cyprus Wildlife (2005 Issue)
Historical setting

Issued by the Central Bank of Cyprus during the final years of the Cypriot pound, this note circulated widely between 1997 and 2005 and remained legal tender until the euro transition. Its design reflects the Republic’s emphasis on classical heritage and biodiversity, two themes central to Cypriot national identity.

Obverse design

The front of the note is dominated by a bust of Artemis, the ancient Greek goddess associated with wildlife and protection. Her presence sets the tone for the note’s thematic focus on nature and mythology. The layout includes:

Bust of Artemis at left
Central text in Greek and Latin scripts
Signature of the Central Bank official
Watermark area at right featuring Aphrodite, another key figure in Cypriot mythology
The colour palette is soft and balanced, giving the note a refined, classical appearance.

Reverse design

The reverse celebrates Cyprus’s distinctive fauna and flora, many of which are endemic to the island. The imagery includes:

Cyprus warbler
Cyprus mouflon (a national symbol)
Green turtle
Paphos Blue butterfly
Cyclamens and tulips, two iconic Cypriot plants

The composition highlights Cyprus as a crossroads of Mediterranean biodiversity, with the animals arranged around the watermark area.

Key specifications
Feature Details
Country Cyprus
Issuer Central Bank of Cyprus
Period Republic (1960–present)
Years 1997–2005
Denomination 10 Pounds (CYP)
Currency Cypriot Pound
Size 157 × 76 mm
Shape Rectangular
Scripts Greek, Latin
Watermark Bust of Aphrodite
References P‑59, P‑62
Demonetized Yes


Artistic and cultural significance

This note stands out for its dual emphasis on mythology (Artemis and Aphrodite) and nature, making it one of the most thematically cohesive designs of the late Cypriot pound era. It also reflects the island’s pride in its endemic species and its deep cultural ties to the ancient world.

Collecting appeal

Collectors value this note for:

Its status as one of the last high‑quality designs before euro adoption
The strong thematic artwork
The popularity of Cyprus wildlife motifs
The clean, modern engraving style
High‑grade examples remain in demand, especially later‑date varieties like the 2005 issue.