500 GRD #221

Front

Ioannis Kapodistrias (1776–1831), Greek diplomat, foreign minister of the Russian Empire, and first Governor of independent Greece (1828–1831). He is considered the founder of the modern Greek state and appears on this note alongside an architectural view of a building in Athens. Kapodistrias played a crucial role in Greek independence and state formation before his assassination in 1831. The date 'ΑΘΗΝΑ / ΦΕΒΡΟΥΑΡΙΟΥ 1983' (Athens, February 1983) is printed on the note.

Back

The Old Fortress of Corfu (Palaio Frourio), a Venetian fortress on the island of Corfu built on an ancient acropolis site. The fortress was constructed primarily between the 15th and 16th centuries during Venetian rule to protect against Ottoman attacks. The view shows the fortress on its rocky promontory with the characteristic architecture and defensive walls, symbolizing Greek maritime history and resilience. Decorative olive branches appear at the lower corners.

History

This 500 drachma note is part of the 1983 series issued by the Bank of Greece (Τράπεζα της Ελλάδος). This series remained in circulation throughout the 1980s and 1990s until the adoption of the Euro in 2002. The note honours Ioannis Kapodistrias, a central figure in Greek independence and state-building. The denomination was common during a period of moderate inflation in Greece. All Greek drachma notes were demonetized on February 28, 2002, following Greece's adoption of the Euro on January 1, 2001.