About legendary figures on banknotes
Many countries put their founding myths on money: Athena and Arethusa on Greek notes, the she-wolf of Rome on Italian lire, Queen Medb on the Irish pound and the epic hero Manas in Kyrgyzstan. Allegorical figures such as Liberty and the Republic were also common on older European notes.
See also: historical figures, Greece, Italy and Ireland.
Frequently asked questions
Which banknotes show Greek gods?
Greek drachma notes show Athena and Arethusa, and the Cypriot 10 pounds shows Artemis.
What is an allegorical figure?
A person who represents an idea, such as Liberty, Justice or the nation itself.
Collector guides
Before you buy
- How to Buy Banknotes Safely Our checklist: trustworthy sellers, grades, Pick numbers, replicas and fair prices. Read the guide →
- Pengő vs Milpengő vs B.-Pengő Every 1946 Hungarian note in one table, up to the 100 quintillion pengő record. Read the guide →
- Polymer Banknotes Guide Which countries use plastic money, and the best polymer notes to collect. Read the guide →
- Commemorative Folder Notes 98 commemorative notes by continent, with the story and how many were made. Read the guide →











