Issued in 1988 by the Bank of the Lao PDR, this 500 Kip banknote highlights the country’s socialist identity and focus on national development during the late 20th century.
The obverse features a portrait of Kaysone Phomvihane, the first Prime Minister and later President of Laos, accompanied by Lao script inscriptions, denomination numerals, and ornamental patterns typical of the period.
The reverse depicts a large hydroelectric dam, symbolizing economic progress and the importance of energy infrastructure to the national economy. Decorative borders, intricate guilloche designs, and repeated denomination markings complete the layout.
Issuer: Bank of the Lao PDR
Denomination: 500 Kip
Year: 1988
Dimensions: Approx. 152 × 70 mm
Material: Paper
Security features: Watermark, security thread, guilloche patterns
