Ukraine's Central Bank to Redesign 2,000 Hryvnia Note Featuring Poet Vasyl Stus After Font Controversy.

Font Adjustments for the New Banknote

According to Мінфін — Крипто/Фінанси: Following a public debate over stylistic similarities to an unofficial Cyrillic adaptation, Ukraine's National Bank has announced changes to the typography on the upcoming 2,000 hryvnia banknote, which will bear the portrait of poet Vasyl Stus. The redesigned note is scheduled to enter circulation on September 4, 2026.

The updated banknote will utilize a font that serves as the official Cyrillic version of Bickham Script. First introduced in 2016, this typeface was adapted for Cyrillic to better reflect Ukraine's cultural and national identity. Artists at the National Bank of Ukraine are designing the new notes using specialized, secure software to prevent counterfeiting. As an added security measure, each letter is being hand-drawn by these artists, underscoring the meticulous approach taken in creating the new currency.

Cultural Boundaries and National Identity

National Bank Governor Andriy Pyshnyy stressed the importance of selecting a typeface free from any associations with Russian culture. He stated emphatically,

“There will be no Russian shadows on a banknote featuring a poet killed by Russia.”

The introduction of a banknote dedicated to Vasyl Stus not only highlights the significance of national culture but also underscores Ukraine's drive to assert its identity amid challenging historical circumstances. By choosing a font that avoids Russian connotations, the move is part of a broader strategy of cultural renewal and emphasizes the pursuit of independence across all sectors, including finance. The rollout of the new banknotes may also serve as a key step in combating counterfeiting, a pressing issue in the modern world.