Libya 5 Dinars 2021 Pick 86a UNC Polymer Banknote
The Libya 5 Dinars 2021 banknote (Pick 86a) was issued by the Central Bank of Libya on 15 February 2021 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 17 February Revolution. It became Libya’s second circulating polymer banknote, following the successful introduction of the 1 Dinar polymer note in 2019.
Printed on SAFEGUARD® polymer substrate by De La Rue, this modern banknote combines advanced security technology with symbols of Libya’s history, independence and cultural heritage. Offered in UNC (Uncirculated) condition, it is one of the country’s most attractive modern issues.
Historical Background
The 2021 commemorative issue celebrates the uprising that began on 17 February 2011, which ultimately led to the end of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime. Alongside its commemorative purpose, the note forms part of the Central Bank’s programme to replace traditional paper currency with longer-lasting and more secure polymer banknotes. The authorities announced that higher denominations would also gradually transition to polymer.
Technical Specifications
- Country: Libya
- Denomination: 5 Dinars
- Year: 2021
- Pick Number: P-86a
- Condition: Uncirculated (UNC)
- Issuer: Central Bank of Libya
- Currency: Libyan Dinar (LYD)
- Material: Polymer (SAFEGUARD®)
- Dimensions: 137 × 68 mm
- Printer: De La Rue (United Kingdom)
Obverse
The obverse features:
- Ottoman Clock Tower in Tripoli’s Old City
- Transparent polymer window with Omar Al-Mukhtar
- Arabic inscriptions
- Denomination numerals
- Serial numbers
Omar Al-Mukhtar, known as the “Lion of the Desert”, led the Libyan resistance against Italian colonial rule and remains one of Libya’s greatest national heroes.
Reverse
The reverse depicts:
- Temple of Zeus at Cyrene
- Portrait of Omar Al-Mukhtar
- English inscriptions
- Decorative security patterns
- Large denomination numerals
The archaeological site of Cyrene, founded by the ancient Greeks, is one of Libya’s most important UNESCO World Heritage sites and reflects the country’s rich classical history.
Security Features
- Transparent polymer window
- SAFEGUARD® ARGENTUM reflective security elements
- Hidden denomination visible against light
- Colour-changing UV security inks
- Simulated demetallised security thread
- Microprinting
- Raised intaglio printing
- Magnetic serial numbering
Why Add This Banknote to Your Collection?
The Libya 5 Dinars 2021 Pick 86a UNC polymer banknote combines modern polymer technology with powerful historical symbolism. Its commemorative nature, innovative security features and beautiful design make it one of the most desirable contemporary African banknotes.
Perfect for:
- Libya banknote collections
- African currency collections
- Polymer banknotes
- Commemorative issues
- Modern world paper money
- UNC banknote collections
Collector’s Note
The Pick 86a is the first polymer 5 Dinars issued by the Central Bank of Libya and commemorates the 10th anniversary of the February 17 Revolution. It was also the first banknote in the world to feature De La Rue’s SAFEGUARD® ARGENTUM technology, making it particularly significant for collectors of modern security printing.
