100 rials 1979

Common. This is a regular issue banknote from a major central bank with substantial print runs in 1979. The catalog value for UNC examples ($400 as of 2019) reflects standard pricing for collectible but non-rare 1970s-80s Iranian currency in pristine condition. No evidence of restricted print runs, recalls, or short-lived issue periods. The note circulates regularly in collectors' markets at predictable price levels.

Issued in 1979 following the Iranian Revolution, this banknote represents the newly-formed Islamic Republic of Iran's effort to replace Pahlavi-era currency with designs reflecting Islamic and national symbolism. The front features the Lion and Sun emblem (Shir-o-Khorshid), the traditional national symbol of Iran, while the reverse depicts an important institutional building, likely representing the Bank Markazi Iran itself or a significant governmental structure. The text 'Government of Islamic Republic of Iran' reinforces the revolutionary political transition captured by this currency.

The obverse features a stylized Lion and Sun emblem (Shir-o-Khorshid) in a circular medallion with radiating lines on the left side, symbolizing Iran's national identity and sovereignty. The right-center displays an ornamental crowned emblem or heraldic design representing Islamic governmental authority. The design incorporates Persian artistic elements including fish motifs in the decorative corner ornaments, botanical elements, and repeating geometric patterns characteristic of Islamic ornamentation. The reverse depicts a substantial institutional building with Islamic architectural features—a prominent dome and multiple arched windows arranged symmetrically—framed by decorative floral designs and trees, likely representing the Bank Markazi Iran headquarters or another important financial institution. The color scheme of purple, mauve, cream, and yellow creates a distinctly Persian aesthetic.

Front: 'بانک مرکزی ایران' (Bank Markazi Iran / Central Bank of Iran); 'صد ریال' (One Hundred Rials); 'دولت جمهوری اسلامی ایران' (Government of Islamic Republic of Iran). Back: 'BANK MARKAZI IRAN' (Central Bank of Iran); '100' (denomination); 'RIALS' (currency unit); 'بانک مرکزی' (Central Bank).

Intaglio engraving (recess printing), as evidenced by the fine line work, intricate geometric background patterns, and high-quality portrait detail visible throughout the note. The printer is identified as TDLR (a security printer). The note demonstrates the characteristic deep, crisp line engraving typical of high-security currency production, with multiple layers of decorative patterns providing counterfeit protection.

This note is classified as an overprint variety on the earlier P-102 design, representing the transitional currency following the 1979 revolution. The overprint includes the new Arabic/Persian text and imagery overlaid on existing Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi currency stock—a common practice during political transitions to quickly replace previous regime imagery. Specific variety identification would require examination of serial number prefixes, signature variants, and precise overprint characteristics, which cannot be definitively determined from the visual analysis alone. The 'Type C' black overprint designation mentioned in reference sources suggests multiple overprint variants exist for this Pick number.