APRIL 7, 2025 — The Central Bank of Russia is evaluating a proposal to feature the national flag on future designs of the country’s banknotes, MoneyTimes reports.
The suggestion originated from the Institute for Socio-Economic Analysis and Development Programs, which sent a formal request advocating for the inclusion of the Russian flag and coat of arms on new currency designs.
In a letter signed by Institute director Andrei Shurikov, the organization argued that such symbols should be mandatory elements of banknote design due to their “important propagandistic potential.”
Responding to the proposal, Vasily Prokofyev, director of the Central Bank’s cash circulation department, confirmed the matter is under consideration.
“The addition of the Russian flag would constitute a change in the graphic design of the banknote, which in turn requires the release of a new modification,” Prokofyev said in an official reply.
The discussion comes amid a broader redesign initiative already announced by the Bank of Russia, says URA.RU. The new series is expected to include updated versions of the 500, 1000, 10, and 50 ruble notes, with the selection of design elements now following a more transparent and open process.
While no final decision has been made, Prokofyev noted that expert suggestions such as this will be taken into account during the development of future banknote designs.
Image: Daniel Vazome, CC BY 2.0
