More than 1.1 million people have participated in an online poll to choose symbols for a new 500-ruble banknote dedicated to the North Caucasian Federal District. The initiative aims to reflect the region’s identity through its landmarks and cultural symbols.
Among the options proposed for the front of the banknote, popular choices include the Academic (Elizabethan) Gallery, the sculpture of an eagle tormenting a snake, Mount Beshtau, and the Lermontov Gallery. For the reverse side, Mount Elbrus, Grozny City, and the Fortress Buildings of Derbent are leading in votes.
Bank of Russia Deputy Governor Sergey Belov stated, “We are not looking for a single main symbol. For us, it is important to understand which sites and monuments in the North Caucasian District resonate the most with people and what they associate this land with to then use these symbols in the banknote design. The vote winners may become either the central motif of the composition or a background ornament.”
The Bank of Russia plans to announce the final results at 12:00 Moscow time on 14 October 2025.
