Extreme Banknotes
Cambodia A/UNC Banknote Set (1, 5, 50 & 100 Riels)
Cambodia A/UNC Banknote Set (1, 5, 50 & 100 Riels)
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Step back into the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia with this beautiful 4-note banknote collection from the First Riel era (1953–1975). Issued by the National Bank of Cambodia during the reign of King Norodom Suramarit and Queen Sisowath Kossamak, these notes capture the nation's history, architecture, traditions, and daily life before decades of political upheaval transformed the country forever.
Featuring iconic Khmer imagery including Angkor Wat, the Royal Palace, traditional fishing scenes on Lake Tonle Sap, ceremonial oxen, and elegant Apsara-inspired artwork, this set offers both historical significance and exceptional visual appeal.
Whether you are a world banknote collector, history enthusiast, traveler, or searching for a unique gift, this authentic Cambodian banknote set is a remarkable addition to any collection.
Included Banknotes
1 Riel (P-4c1)
- Obverse: Traditional boats navigating the waterways of Phnom Penh, Cambodia's historic river port.
- Reverse: Royal Palace Throne Room in Phnom Penh.
- Color: Green and blue.
5 Riels (P-10c)
- Obverse: The famous Bayon stone faces of Avalokitesvara.
- Reverse: Entrance to the Royal Palace.
- Color: Red and green.
50 Riels (P-7d)
- Obverse: Fishermen casting large traditional nets on Lake Tonle Sap.
- Reverse: The magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex.
- Color: Blue, brown and violet.
100 Riels (P-13b)
- Obverse: Ceremonial oxen participating in a traditional Khmer ritual.
- Reverse: Three ceremonial women depicted in elegant classical style.
- Color: Blue.
History & Significance
These banknotes were issued during the era of the First Cambodian Riel, a period that followed Cambodia's independence and preceded the turbulent years of the Khmer Rouge. They reflect a nation proud of its ancient heritage, royal traditions, and cultural identity.
The designs celebrate Cambodia's most recognizable landmarks and traditions, including the world-famous Angkor Wat, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, the fishing communities that depended on Lake Tonle Sap, and ceremonial imagery deeply rooted in Khmer culture.
Today, surviving examples from this period are increasingly sought after by collectors of Asian currency, world paper money, and Southeast Asian historical memorabilia.
Features
Issuing Authority
National Bank of Cambodia (Banque Nationale du Cambodge)
Currency
First Riel (1953–1975)
Type
Standard circulation banknotes
Material
Paper
Dimensions
- 1 Riel: 128 × 64 mm
- 5 Riels: 133 × 67 mm
- 50 Riels: 162 × 74 mm
- 100 Riels: 175 × 77 mm
Design Details
The notes showcase some of the finest banknote engraving of the mid-20th century, featuring intricate guilloche patterns, detailed Khmer script, traditional architecture, royal symbolism, and scenes from everyday Cambodian life.
Highlights include:
- Angkor Wat temple complex
- Royal Palace architecture
- Bayon temple artwork
- Traditional fishing vessels and river scenes
- Ceremonial oxen
- Classical Khmer female figures
- Ornate security engraving and decorative borders
The combination of vibrant colors and finely engraved designs makes this one of the most visually attractive vintage Southeast Asian banknote sets available.
Condition
About Uncirculated (A/UNC) to Uncirculated (UNC).
The banknotes are crisp, attractive examples with strong original color, excellent detail, and minimal evidence of handling. Notes may display light counting marks, slight corner handling, or minor storage-related imperfections typical of A/UNC examples, but remain highly collectible and well preserved.
Perfect For
✔ World banknote collectors
✔ Cambodian history enthusiasts
✔ Asian currency collections
✔ Educational displays
✔ Unique gifts for travelers and historians
✔ Vintage paper money collections
Own a beautiful piece of Cambodia's cultural and monetary history with this authentic vintage 1–5–50–100 Riels banknote set from the First Riel era.
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Serial Number Disclaimer
Actual serial numbers on banknotes vary from piece to piece. The serial shown in product photos may not match the banknote you receive, but all items are guaranteed authentic and graded as described.
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Feel free to reach out to us if You're searching for a specific banknote to add to Your collection or if You have any questions about our products, services, or a previous order - we are here to assist You!
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CONDITION GUIDE
Gem Uncirculated
A note that is flawless, with the same freshness, crispness and bright color as when first printed. It
must be perfectly centered, with full margins, and free of any marks, blemishes or traces of handling.
About Uncirculated
A bright, crisp note that appears new but upon close examination shows a trace of very light use, such as a corner fold or faint crease. 'About Uncirculated' is a borderline condition, applied to a note which may not be quite uncirculated, but yet is obviously better than an average Extra Fine note. Such notes command a price only slightly below a new note and are highly desirable.
Extra Fine
A note that shows some faint evidence of circulation, although it will still be bright and retain nearly full crispness. It may have two or three minor folds or creases but no tears or stains and no discolorations.
Very Fine
A note that has been in circulation, but not actively or for long. It still retains some crispness and is still choice enough in its condition to be altogether desirable. It may show folds or creases, or some light smudges from the hands of a past generation. Sometimes, Very Fine notes are the best available in certain rare issues, and they should accordingly be cherished just as much as uncirculated notes.
Fine
A fine note shows evidence of much more circulation, has lost its crispness and very fine detail, and creases are more pronounced, although the note is still not seriously soiled or stained.
SHIPPING
Tracking information will be provided!
Your banknote will be packaged between two sturdy pieces of cardboard to safeguard its condition during transit, guaranteeing it arrives to you exactly as described. Should you have any inquiries, please don't hesitate to reach out - we're here to assist you!