A widely used high-denomination note of Iceland’s late paper currency era

The 100 Krónur 1981 banknote was issued by the Central Bank of Iceland (Seðlabanki Íslands) during a period of continued inflation and economic adjustment. As a higher everyday denomination, it played a central role in retail transactions, wages, and personal savings throughout the early 1980s.


🏦 Historical Context

By 1981, Icelandic currency usage had shifted toward higher denominations as the purchasing power of the króna declined. Smaller banknotes were gradually being replaced by coins, while notes such as the 100 krónur became essential for daily commerce.

This issue belongs to the final phase before later monetary reforms and redesigns significantly altered Iceland’s banknote structure.


🎨 Design & Appearance

Obverse (Front)

  • Portrait of a prominent Icelandic historical or cultural figure

  • Issuer name Seðlabanki Íslands

  • Denomination text “Hundrað krónur”

  • Printed signatures of Central Bank officials

  • Detailed engraved security patterns

  • Clearly printed serial numbers

The design emphasizes functionality and authority, reflecting the practical role of the denomination.

Reverse (Back)

  • Decorative engraved composition

  • Large numeral 100 for quick identification

  • Balanced and symmetrical layout

The reverse maintains a formal and uncluttered appearance consistent with other notes of the series.


🖨️ Technical Details

  • Issuer: Seðlabanki Íslands (Central Bank of Iceland)

  • Year of Issue: 1981

  • Denomination: 100 Krónur

  • Pick Number: P-50

  • Printing Method: Intaglio engraving

  • Paper: Secure banknote-grade paper

  • Purpose: General circulation


🔎 Collectability & Significance

The 100 Krónur 1981 (P-50) is appreciated by collectors for:

  • Its role as a key everyday denomination during the early 1980s

  • Representation of Iceland’s late paper currency period

  • Increasing scarcity in higher grades due to heavy circulation

Notes with strong detail, minimal folds, and bright paper are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

100 Krónur 1981 – Iceland (Pick P-50)

Signatures guide for Icelandic currency of the period