Bangladesh Bank is introducing a new Tk500 banknote featuring upgraded security elements, with distribution beginning at the central bank’s Dhaka office on 4 December.
The note will gradually become available at bank branches across the country.
According to Bangladesh Bank, the redesigned note incorporates upgraded security technology to prevent counterfeiting and ensure compliance with international standards. The new note will circulate alongside the existing Tk500 note, while all other denominations — Tk1000, Tk200, Tk100, Tk50, Tk20, Tk10, Tk5 and Tk2 will also remain valid.
The new note will measure 152 mm by 65 mm. Key security features include a watermark, a bright security thread, latent image, microprint, colour-shifting ink and a special twisted design. When tilted, the ‘500’ numeral will change colour.
The microprint will read ‘BANGLADESH BANK,’ visible clearly upon close inspection. Matching designs on both sides will help confirm authenticity.
Under ultraviolet light, special colours, fibres and markings on the note will appear more prominently, making counterfeit detection easier.
Bangladesh Bank said the strengthened security architecture is intended to make the note significantly harder to forge.
The existing Tk500 notes will remain fully legal tender even after the new series enters circulation.
