Size: 160 mm x 72 mm
Colour: brown in yellow
Date first issued: 01.01.1999
The 5000 Lekė note, issued in 1996, was printed by "De La Rue". The note was reprinted by "Oberthure" banknote printing company in 2001 with improved security features and put in circulation (i.e. became legal tender) on 1 September 2004.
The front side includes a portrait (known as the
Florence portrait) of Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, 1405-1468, - the most outstanding man throughout the Albanian history, who led the Albanians in their fight against the Ottomans. Other elements include the double-headed eagle and Skanderbeg's shield and sword.
An illustration of Kruja Castle is depicted on the back of the note as well as an illustration of Skanderbeg's helmet and his equestrian sculpture in Tirana. The value numeral of the note appears on the lower right corner.
On 15 May 2009, the Bank of Albania put in circulation the 5000 Lekė note of legal tender, issue of 2007. It retains the same design and dimension as the 5000 Lekė note, issue of 2001. Security related and damage-resistant elements are improved or added to this banknote. Signatures of the Governor and Director of Issue Department as well as the year are updated.
Older 5000 Lekė notes shall continue to be legal tender and shall continue to be in circulation along with the new note, issued in 2007.
New 5000 Lekė note security features (in Albanian)
