Guinea is a country in West Africa, bordered on the west by the Atlantic Ocean. It's known for the Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve, in the southeast. The reserve protects a forested mountain range rich in native plants and animals, including chimpanzees and the viviparous toad. On the coast, the capital city, Conakry, is home to the modern Grand Mosque and the National Museum, with its regional artefacts.

Guinea has abundant natural resources including 25% or more of the world's known bauxite reserves. Guinea also has diamonds, gold, and other metals. A major exporter of bananas, pineapples, coffee, peanuts, and palm oil, Guinea has considerable potential for growth in the agricultural and fishing sectors. Soil, water, and climatic conditions provide opportunities for large-scale irrigated farming and agro-industry.

The Guinean franc is the currency of Guinea. It is subdivided into one hundred centimes, but no centime denominations were ever issued. The Guinean franc was reintroduced as Guinea's currency in 1985. Banknotes were first issued in denominations of 25, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000 francs. Guinean notes of this series are unique from those of other countries in that the date of issue features very prominently as part of the overall design on the lower left hand corner of each note.

Today we are looking at a 50 Guinean Franc banknote issued in 1958. The obverse has a portrait of an elderly bearded man to left; and traditional carvings to right. The reverse depicts a man ploughing with water buffalos in centre; with Traditional mask to right. This pinkish note has a flying dove as its watermark.

Image Courtesy: Katz Coins Notes & Supplies Corp.