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New in Documentchecker: Lesotho’s 200 Maloti Banknote

A total of five million notes of 200 Maloti was issued on 17 July 2023 to commemorate the 60th birthday of King Letsie III of Lesotho. The banknote is now available in Keesing DocumentChecker. The Governor of the Central Bank of Lesotho (CBL) said that it was a special day since it was the first time in the history of CBL’s 45 years of existence that they launched a commemorative banknote.

Design

The new banknote has been designed to illustrate the importance of how history changed the country’s course to independence and democracy. Lesotho’s current King Lestie III illustrated on the front of the banknote, is the succession of King Moshoeshoe II, who was forced into exile while initiating free elections. The free elections were eventually successfully held in 1993 with the assistance of King Letsie III and Nelson Mandela of South Africa.

Moreover, a portrait of King Moshoeshoe I (1786 – 1870) is depicted on the watermark. His highness is considered the founder of Lesotho and the longest serving monarch. He was known for his diplomatic skills and ability to unite the Basotho people.

The note also features the Basotho hat, also known as a Mokorotlo, which is a straw hat with a wide brim and a pointed peak inspired by Mount Qiloane. It is a significant national emblem that becomes the focal point of the national flag.

Security Features

The banknote includes a windowed 3D security strip (RollingStar®), SPARK® Live security ink that changes colour from lilac to yellow, embossed bars for the visually impaired, a see-through register, and more. To see these design and security features in detail, check the infographic below.

Access to Keesing DocumentChecker

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