Burma (Myanmar) 15 Kyats 1986 Pick 62 UNC Banknote
The Burma 15 Kyats 1986 banknote (Pick 62) was issued by the Union of Burma Bank during the final years of the Socialist Republic of the Union of Burma. Introduced on 1 August 1986, this unusual denomination reflects the country’s distinctive monetary history during the rule of General Ne Win.
The note is particularly notable for its portrait of General Aung San, Myanmar’s independence hero and father of Aung San Suu Kyi, while the reverse celebrates the country’s rich cultural heritage through a depiction of Min Thar, a traditional prince character from Burmese puppet theatre.
Preserved in UNC (Uncirculated) condition, this banknote is an excellent collectible for enthusiasts of Asian and historical world currency.
Historical Background
The 15 Kyats denomination was introduced in 1986, together with the 35 Kyats note. Their unusual face values were influenced by the numerological beliefs of Burmese leader Ne Win, who frequently introduced unconventional denominations into circulation.
Only one year later, Burma experienced another dramatic currency reform that demonetized several denominations without compensation, contributing to widespread public unrest and the events leading to the 1988 uprising. The 15 Kyats, however, remained one of the most recognizable notes of this period.
Technical Specifications
- Country: Burma (Myanmar)
- Denomination: 15 Kyats
- Year: 1986
- Pick Number: P-62
- Condition: Uncirculated (UNC)
- Issuer: Union of Burma Bank
- Currency: Third Kyat (MMK)
- Material: Paper
- Dimensions: 149 × 71 mm
- Printer: Security Printing Works (Wazi)
Obverse
The obverse features:
- General Aung San in military uniform
- Burmese inscriptions
- Decorative guilloche patterns
- Denomination numerals
- Serial numbers
General Aung San is regarded as the founder of modern Myanmar and remains one of the country’s most respected national heroes.
Reverse
The reverse depicts:
- Min Thar, a seated prince from traditional Burmese puppet theatre
- English and Burmese inscriptions
- Decorative ornamental patterns
- Large denomination numerals
This design celebrates Myanmar’s rich artistic traditions and the centuries-old heritage of Burmese puppetry.
Security Features
- Watermark portrait of General Aung San
- Embedded security thread
- UV fluorescent fibres
- Fine guilloche engraving
- Intaglio printing
- Serial numbering
Why Add This Banknote to Your Collection?
The Burma 15 Kyats 1986 Pick 62 UNC banknote combines political history, traditional culture and one of the most unusual denominations ever issued in Southeast Asia. Its connection with General Aung San and Burma’s remarkable monetary history makes it highly desirable among collectors.
Perfect for:
- Myanmar banknote collections
- Asian currency collections
- Cold War banknotes
- Political history collections
- Theatre and cultural-themed banknotes
- UNC world paper money collections
Collector’s Note
The 15 Kyats Pick 62 is famous not only for its portrait of General Aung San, but also because of its unusual denomination, introduced during the numerology-inspired monetary policies of General Ne Win. Together with the 35 Kyats note, it represents one of the most distinctive issues in modern world banknote history.
