The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is rolling out brand-new R50 and R100 banknotes in June 2025, bringing enhanced security features, better accessibility, and a fresh look to the country’s physical currency. These updates are not just about aesthetics—they aim to combat counterfeiting, support financial inclusion, and reinforce national identity.
This guide covers everything South Africans need to know, from design changes to verification tips, ensuring everyone is prepared for the upcoming transition.
Key Launch Details of the New Banknotes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | June 2025 |
| Affected Denominations | R50 and R100 |
| Old Notes Validity | Remain legal tender |
| Main Theme | Nelson Mandela (front), Big Five families (back) |
| Security Features | Color-shifting ink, QR codes, 3D thread, watermark |
| Accessibility Additions | Raised tactile markings, enhanced textures |
| Verification Method | SARB mobile app for QR scanning and features |
Why Are New Notes Being Introduced?
The last major update to South Africa’s currency came in 2012 with the introduction of the Mandela series. Since then, counterfeiting technology has become more advanced, and the need for stronger security has grown.
In addition to improving security, the 2025 update focuses on accessibility for visually impaired users and a more inclusive representation of South Africa’s wildlife and culture.
These changes also serve to maintain confidence in cash as a means of payment in both formal and informal economies.
Detailed Design and Security Enhancements
Security Features
The updated R50 and R100 banknotes include multiple new anti-counterfeit technologies:
- Color-Shifting Ink: Colors change when the note is tilted.
- 3D Security Threads: Embedded into the note and visible under light.
- Advanced Watermarks: Multi-tone Mandela portraits visible when held to light.
- Microtext: Tiny print only visible under magnification to deter replication.
- QR Codes: Scannable for instant verification using the official SARB app.
Accessibility Features
In line with global accessibility standards, SARB has added:
- Raised Tactile Markings: Unique dot patterns that help the visually impaired differentiate between denominations.
- Textured Surfaces: Enhanced feel makes it easier to recognize the note by touch.
Design Themes
- Front Side: Continues to feature Nelson Mandela, the face of unity and leadership in South Africa.
- Back Side: Upgraded images of the Big Five animals now shown in family groupings, reinforcing messages of conservation, diversity, and heritage.
Rollout Timeline – What to Expect
| Phase | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Public Education Campaign | April 2025 |
| Note Distribution to Banks | June 2025 |
| Public Availability | August 2025 |
| Gradual Old Note Removal | October 2025 – end of 2026 |
Both old and new notes will circulate together during the transition. There’s no need to rush to exchange your current cash.
How to Verify the New Notes
To ensure the authenticity of your banknotes:
- Look for color-shifting ink and holographic elements.
- Feel the tactile markings and raised print.
- Tilt the note to spot the 3D security thread and shimmering patches.
- Scan the embedded QR code using the SARB mobile app for instant confirmation.
Tips for Retailers and Businesses
- Educate Staff: Train your team to recognize new features.
- Update POS Devices: Ensure your cash validation systems accept the updated notes.
- Use Visual Aids: Display posters at checkout points to inform customers.
- Use the SARB App: Scan QR codes during high-value transactions to prevent fraud.
Historical Significance
South Africa’s currency has evolved significantly over the past century. The new R50 and R100 notes continue the journey from apartheid-era symbols to modern, inclusive themes that reflect the country’s diversity and resilience. From Mandela’s legacy to the strength of wildlife imagery, the design choices serve both practical and symbolic purposes.
The new R50 and R100 banknotes launching in June 2025 are more than a redesign—they represent a bold move toward a secure, inclusive, and modern currency system in South Africa. With new features to combat counterfeiting and support accessibility, this rollout is timely and impactful.
Whether you’re handling cash daily or occasionally, now is the time to get familiar with these changes. Stay alert, verify your notes, and help others understand the transition for a safer, smarter financial future.
FAQs
Will old R50 and R100 notes still be valid after June 2025?
Yes, old notes will remain legal tender for the foreseeable future and can be used alongside the new notes.
Do I need to exchange my old notes at a bank?
No, there is no immediate need to exchange them. Both versions will be accepted during the transition period.
What if I receive a suspicious or fake note?
Use the SARB mobile app to scan the QR code for verification. If suspicious, report the note to your nearest bank branch or police station.