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.

