Description
Iceland 1000 kronur 2001 – SHO
This beautiful Iceland 1000 Krónur banknote, issued under the law of 22 May 2001 by the Seðlabanki Íslands (Central Bank of Iceland), features a rich purple and multicolored design with advanced security elements including a windowed security thread, latent images, UV features, and a watermark of Jón Sigurðsson. The note is from the 2001 series (often cataloged as Pick 59 or similar variants), known for its full-bleed design without top/bottom borders in later printings.
The obverse prominently displays a detailed portrait of Brynjólfur Sveinsson (1605–1675), the renowned Lutheran Bishop of Skálholt, holding an open Bible. He is remembered as a key preserver of Iceland’s medieval manuscripts, collecting and protecting ancient sagas and the Poetic Edda during a time when many were at risk of loss—earning him a lasting place in Icelandic cultural history. The intricate background draws from historic textiles and motifs, with the denomination in a distinctive script echoing church inscriptions.
The reverse shows the historic Brynjólfskirkja (Skálholt cathedral) in elevation and cross-section from the 17th century, plus an image of the Madonna and Child from a gold ring once owned by the bishop, symbolizing his ecclesiastical legacy.
Measuring 150 x 70 mm, this note highlights Iceland’s deep ties to literature, religion, and heritage. A fantastic addition for collectors of world paper money, Scandinavian currency, or items tied to Iceland’s manuscript preservation story. Still legal tender, though highly sought after in crisp condition.
