500 Algerian Dinars (1970 Issue)

The 500 Algerian Dinars banknote issued in 1970 is a distinctive early post-independence high-denomination note produced by the Banque Centrale d’Algérie. Unlike the richly coloured pictorial issues of later decades, this design is executed almost entirely in a single purple-violet tone, giving it the appearance of an engraved plate print. The restrained palette places emphasis on linework, ornament, and composition, and it reflects an era when Algerian banknote design balanced security, artistry, and state symbolism through intricate engraving rather than bright colour separation.

On the front of the banknote, the composition is dominated by decorative geometric framing and bold Arabic calligraphy. The denomination “500” appears prominently within a floral rosette at the upper right, while the main inscription of the value is presented in Arabic across the centre. The lower portion features a dense narrative band of engraved imagery: architectural elements suggestive of a historic cityscape, a traditional cart motif, and animal symbolism rendered in stylised relief-like linework. The border is highly structured, with interlaced patterns forming a continuous protective frame that both decorates and complicates reproduction. Serial numbers and issue identifiers sit in the margins, integrated into the design rather than appearing as detached overprints.

The reverse presents a maritime and coastal theme rendered in delicate, continuous engraved strokes. A sailing vessel occupies the foreground, with rigging, sails, and hull details carefully articulated to create depth despite the limited colour range. Behind it, a fortified harbour and walled waterfront settlement extend across the horizon, with birds in flight adding scale and movement. French-language inscriptions identify the issuing authority as Banque Centrale d’Algérie, and the denomination is written as cinq cents dinars, consistent with the bilingual presentation seen across Algerian notes of this period. The overall effect is documentary and historical in tone, with the engraving style evoking archival illustration while still functioning as circulating currency.

Today, older Algerian dinar notes such as the 500 Dinars (1970) are rarely accepted by UK high-street banks or currency bureaux, particularly when they are historic issues, stored for decades, or presented as part of mixed foreign currency collections. If you hold Algerian banknotes and want currency buy back, our UK-based service is designed specifically for leftover currency that traditional providers often decline.

• Indicate the quantity of 500 Algerian Dinar banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Banks and bureaus frequently refuse older, uncommon, or hard-to-place foreign notes like historic Algerian dinars, leaving people stuck with money they can’t spend or exchange locally. We specialise in exchanging leftover currency for individuals, charities, and businesses, providing a trusted route to convert surplus foreign banknotes into pounds. Used by organisations and recognised brands as well as private customers, our service turns “unexchangeable” notes into usable funds through a clear, secure UK process.