Country / Region: Bhutan

Continent: Asia

Denomination: 1,000 Ngultrum

Year: 2008

Grade: Uncirculated

Face Value (as at 2012.06.25): about USD17.50

Pick: 34

Figure (Obverse): Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

Figure (Reverse): Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu

Interesting Fact: King Wangchuck is seen wearing the Raven Crown (dbu-zhva bya-rog-can), which is the most distinguished symbol of the King of Bhutan. The Raven is the national bird of Bhutan. Killing a raven in Bhutan would lead to death penalty at one time.

One thing that caught my attention is the rim of the Raven Crown, which is decorated with the motif of tantric skull. The tantric skulls are decorations associated with wrathful deities. You can find out more information about the crown here.

King Wangchuck has been called “The world's most handsome king”. He married Queen Jetsun Pema on 13 October 2011 and issued a commemorative note for the occasion. It has since become my favorite banknote from Bhutan. Will post it up later.