New 2,000-Hryvnia Banknote Set for Circulation
Starting September 4, 2026, the National Bank of Ukraine will release a new 2,000-hryvnia banknote honoring the renowned Ukrainian poet Vasyl Stus. The announcement was made by NBU Governor Andriy Pyshnyi at a launch event attended by Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk and Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Olena Kovalska. This move reflects ongoing adjustments to Ukraine's currency system in response to economic shifts.
Design and Security Features of the New Note
The front of the banknote will feature a portrait of Vasyl Stus, while the reverse side depicts the building of the Philology Faculty at Donetsk National University. The note also includes a line from Stus's poem: 'And the candle flickers with a dawn that our great-grandchild will call day,' rendered in a font inspired by the graphic work of Heorhiy Narbut, who designed the first hryvnia and shah banknotes of the Ukrainian People's Republic.
Governor Pyshnyi emphasized that the national currency's banknote series must evolve with the economy. He stated:
'The economy changes. Incomes, prices, the volume of cash in circulation, and population behavior all shift. The banknote series of the national currency must adapt to these changes. Just as economic conditions led to the introduction of the 1,000-hryvnia note in 2019, they have now created a justified need for a 2,000-hryvnia note in 2026.' Andriy Pyshnyi, NBU Governor
The new banknote will incorporate over 20 security features, including:
- A unique windowed security thread called AnimaTM Colour;
- A thread design in blue and yellow colors;
- A motion effect and image change when tilting the note — the Trident symbol transforms into the hryvnia sign.
'This is the world's first banknote to use the unique AnimaTM Colour windowed security thread, which is both polychromatic and animated,' Pyshnyi noted.
In this way, the new 2,000-hryvnia note not only commemorates Vasyl Stus but also meets modern security and design standards, making it a crucial component of the national currency.
The introduction of the 2,000-hryvnia banknote represents a significant step in modernizing Ukraine's cash circulation, enabling the currency to align with current economic realities. The unveiling comes amid evolving economic conditions and a growing need for more convenient and secure monetary instruments. Additionally, dedicating the banknote to Vasyl Stus highlights the importance of cultural heritage and national identity in the face of contemporary challenges.
In light of this significant announcement, it is essential to explore the broader implications of the new currency introduction. The recent unveiling of the 2,000-hryvnia banknote not only honors a literary giant but also reflects ongoing adaptations within Ukraine's financial system, highlighting the central bank's responsiveness to economic dynamics.