20 rials 1974

Common. eBay market data shows multiple sales of UNC examples ranging from $3.25 to $10.50 across 2010-2015, with 2019 catalog value listed at $10 UNC. The regular issue status, multiple documented sales in the numismatic market, and modest retail values all indicate this is a commonly available note among Iranian rial collectors. The denomination and print run during the 1974-1979 issue period were substantial enough to ensure continued circulation in the market.

Issued in 1353 on the Islamic calendar (1974 Gregorian), this note was produced during the reign of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, when Iran was experiencing significant modernization and economic development. The reverse design celebrates the Amir Kabir Dam (also known as Karaj Dam), a major engineering achievement near Karaj that symbolized Iran's infrastructure progress and technological advancement during this period. The note's elaborate Persian design elements, including the geometric motifs and lion symbolism, reflect Iran's cultural heritage and national identity as projected during the Pahlavi era.

The obverse features a right-facing three-quarter portrait of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi wearing formal military dress uniform with ornate collar decoration and shoulder insignia indicating high rank and authority. Dominating the left side is an elaborate Persian lion motif in red and purple tones, featuring intricate geometric and Islamic decorative patterning characteristic of Persian artistic tradition. The note utilizes a sophisticated color palette of pink, mauve, brown, red, and purple with detailed geometric and floral border patterns. The reverse depicts the Amir Kabir Dam (Karaj Dam), a significant engineering landmark located in the Alborz Mountains near Karaj, shown in a detailed landscape engraving with surrounding mountainous terrain, water reservoir, and vegetation. Both sides feature ornamental corner medallions with circular fan-like or star-compass designs typical of Persian Islamic numismatic design.

Front: 'بانک مرکزی ایران' (Bank Markazi Iran / Central Bank of Iran); 'بیست ریال' (Twenty Rials); '۱۳۵۳' (Islamic year 1353, equivalent to 1974 CE); '۲۰' (numerals 20). Back: 'BANK MARKAZI IRAN' (English text, Central Bank of Iran); 'AMIR KABIR DAM' or similar location identification text; '۲۰' (numerals 20). The bilingual inscription (Persian and English) reflects Iran's international banking standards during this period.

Intaglio/engraving process, as evidenced by the fine detail, depth, and precision visible in both the portrait work and landscape rendering. The note displays sophisticated multi-color printing with layered color application creating the complex background underprints (orange, lilac, and multicolored elements noted in catalog references). The printer is identified in catalog references as TDLR (Talebi and Davari Lithography/Printing, or similar Iranian state security printer). Security features include the complex geometric and floral border patterns serving anti-counterfeiting functions, fine-line engraving work throughout, and the intricate interplay of multiple colors.

This note is cataloged as Pick 100b. The PMG population report references a variant 100a1, indicating multiple subtypes exist for this base Pick number. Specific variety differentiation would require examination of signature combinations, serial number prefixes, security thread characteristics (noted as yellow), and watermark variants (young Shah Pahlavi). The present example, described as UNC in the given condition assessment, represents a high-grade example of the regular issue type from 1974.