50 riels 1972

Common. The 1972 50 Riels (Pick P-7c) was a standard circulating denomination issued by the Banque Nationale de Cambodge during a period of relative economic stability prior to the upheaval of 1975. Print runs for this denomination were substantial, and examples survive in various grades. While high-grade specimens (67 EPQ) represent better preservation than average circulated notes, PMG-graded examples of Cambodian notes from this period are regularly encountered in the numismatic market at moderate prices. The note does not exhibit characteristics of a scarce variety (such as limited signature combinations or overprints).

Issued by the Banque Nationale de Cambodge in 1972, this note was produced during a turbulent period in Cambodian history, just two years before the Khmer Rouge takeover in 1975. The imagery reflects Cambodia's cultural heritage and economic life of the era: the obverse celebrates traditional fishing practices along Cambodia's waterways, while the reverse honors Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of Khmer civilization and the nation's most sacred monument. The use of both French and Khmer inscriptions reflects Cambodia's post-colonial status and the multilingual administrative structure of the period.

The obverse features a meticulously engraved central vignette depicting traditional Cambodian fishing activities, with multiple silhouetted fishermen operating large cast and drag nets from boats and shoreline positions along a tranquil waterway. The composition includes stylized clouds, water elements, and fishing vessels rendered in tan, brown, and blue tones. The reverse displays the architectural splendor of Angkor Wat, the 12th-century Khmer temple complex, rendered with its characteristic five central towers and distinctive spires, flanked by palm trees and reflected over water—all contained within an ornate decorative border featuring intricate repetitive patterns in purple and blue. Both sides employ an elaborate quadrant-style corner flourish design with fine line work. The watermark features a Buddha image (confirmed by PMG certification), a common security feature in Cambodian currency of this period. Text appears in Khmer script and French, reflecting the bilingual administrative practice of post-colonial Cambodia.

FRONT SIDE: 'រាជាណាចក្រកម្ពុជា' (Kingdom of Cambodia); 'ប្រាំសិបរៀល' (Fifty Riels); Serial numbers: 023054045 and 54045 (repeated); Signature authorization marks (#12 noted on certification). BACK SIDE: 'BANQUE NATIONALE DU CAMBODGE' (National Bank of Cambodia, in French); 'CINQUANTE RIELS' (Fifty Riels, in French); 'ប្រាំសិបរៀល' (Fifty Riels, in Khmer); Denomination numeral '50' displayed in multiple locations. CERTIFICATION LABEL: Pick# 7c ND (1972) 50 Riels; Serial Number 337 54045; Watermark: Buddha; Signature Variant #12; 5-digit serial number configuration; PMG Grade: 67 (Superb Gem Unc); EPQ (Exceptional Paper Quality); Certification Number: 1912753-075.

Intaglio (engraved) printing, evidenced by the extremely fine line work, sharp detail definition, and the intricate border patterns visible in high-resolution images. The PMG certification identifies the printer as TDLR (Théâtre de la Monnaie/Bureau d'Impression - a French security printer), which was responsible for printing Cambodian currency during this period. The combination of fine engraving, watermark integration, and security features typical of European currency production confirms this was a professionally executed security print.

This note is identified as Pick P-7c with Signature Variant #12, featuring a five-digit serial number format (337 54045). The watermark consists of a Buddha image. These are standard characteristics of the P-7c variety rather than unusual variants. No rare overprints, date variations, or exceptional signature combinations are noted. The 1972 date appears as 'ND (1972)' in catalog notation, indicating 'No Date' on the note itself with the year assigned by Pick catalog convention based on issuance records.