1983 Lebanon 25 Livres Banknote PMG 66 EPQ Pick 64c Gem UNC Banque du Liban

1983 Lebanon 25 Livres Banknote PMG 66 EPQ Pick 64c Gem UNC Banque du Liban

Offered here is a certified Lebanon 25 Livres banknote from 1983, graded PMG 66 Gem Uncirculated EPQ (Exceptional Paper Quality). Cataloged as Pick #64c / PCLB 95f, this note was printed by Thomas De La Rue (TDLR) and beautifully illustrates Lebanon’s medieval and Crusader-era heritage.

Design & Features:

• Obverse: The front depicts the Sidon Sea Castle, a 13th-century fortress built by the Crusaders on a small island connected to the mainland by a causeway. The intricate border designs frame the castle with rich geometric artistry, alongside the denomination (٢٥) in Arabic numerals.

• Reverse: The back features the Mseilha Fort, perched on a rocky ridge near Batroun. Built during the Ottoman period, this defensive stronghold guarded a strategic pass into northern Lebanon. The scene is accompanied by inscriptions in both Arabic and French ("Vingt-Cinq Livres"), reflecting Lebanon’s bilingual heritage.

• Watermark: The note carries a Lion’s Head watermark, a common feature in Lebanese banknotes of this era.

• Printer: Produced by Thomas De La Rue, renowned for precision and security in banknote printing.

• Color Scheme: Rendered in shades of brown and sepia, the note evokes the ancient stonework of Lebanon’s castles and fortresses.

Historical Significance:
Issued in the midst of the Lebanese Civil War, this banknote reflects the country’s deep historical identity even in times of turmoil. The focus on Sidon and Mseilha underscores Lebanon’s rich medieval and Crusader past, serving as a reminder of resilience and continuity through centuries of conflict.

Remarkable Denomination:
The 25 Livres denomination represented everyday purchasing value in the early 1980s but has since been eroded by decades of inflation. Today, it is primarily sought after as a collectible artifact of Lebanon’s pre-crisis economy and cultural pride.

Catalog Reference: Pick 64c, PCLB 95f, issued in 1983.

Collector’s Value:
With its top-tier PMG 66 Gem Uncirculated EPQ grade, this note stands out for crisp printing, clean paper quality, and excellent centering. Collectors of Middle Eastern, Crusader-era, or world historical banknotes will value this piece as both a certified high-grade note and a tribute to Lebanon’s enduring heritage.