1000 Albanian Leke (Issued 2021)

The 1000 Albanian Leke banknote issued in 2021 forms part of Albania’s latest banknote series, a modern redesign that blends traditional intaglio engraving with advanced security technology. Issued by Banka e Shqipërisë, this denomination reflects a deliberate move toward brighter colour palettes, enhanced durability, and clearer visual storytelling, while continuing to celebrate figures and themes central to Albanian cultural and political history.

On the front of the note, the dominant feature is a finely engraved portrait of Pjetër Bogdani, a prominent 17th-century Albanian intellectual, writer, and cleric. The portrait is executed in classic intaglio style, with dense, layered line work creating depth across the face, hair, and beard. This traditional engraving contrasts with the modern colour scheme, which is led by vivid green tones with subtle transitions into lighter hues. The denomination “1000” appears prominently in multiple locations, designed for rapid recognition, while the inscription Banka e Shqipërisë is clearly printed along the upper area of the note. A vertical security window and strip run alongside the portrait, incorporating micro-text, transparent elements, and tonal shifts that change under light, reinforcing protection against counterfeiting.

The reverse of the 1000 Albanian Leke focuses on architectural and cultural symbolism. A historic stone structure, associated with Albania’s heritage and intellectual history, is depicted using fine linear engraving and soft shading. The building is set against a background of geometric patterns and ornamental motifs that echo those found on the front, ensuring visual continuity across both sides of the banknote. The denomination is repeated on the reverse, integrated into the design rather than simply overprinted, and surrounded by complex line structures that become more apparent under magnification. Additional security features include micro-printed text, intricate guilloché patterns, and colour-shifting elements that enhance both visual appeal and security.

As a relatively recent issue, the 1000 Albanian Leke (2021) is commonly held by travellers returning from Albania, as well as by businesses, charities, and collectors with leftover Albanian currency. If you have this banknote and would like to exchange foreign coins and notes, we offer a straightforward UK-based service with instant online valuation and secure processing from start to finish.

• Indicate the quantity of 1000 Albanian Leke banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

We help individuals, businesses, and charities convert surplus foreign banknotes efficiently, providing clear pricing, expert handling, and a simple, reliable exchange process.