500 IDR #266

Front

Traditional Dayak house (rumah adat) from Kalimantan, featuring the distinctive high-peaked thatched roof supported by wooden pillars and surrounded by palm trees and tropical vegetation. The Dayak are indigenous peoples of Borneo (Kalimantan) known for their unique longhouse architecture that reflects communal living traditions. The note also displays geometric patterns derived from traditional Indonesian textile motifs (batik and ikat designs) at the right margin.

Back

Lesser Bird-of-Paradise (Paradisaea minor or Cenderawasih Kuning), one of the spectacular bird species endemic to New Guinea and surrounding islands, depicted at left with its distinctive ornamental plumage. These birds were prized in traditional Indonesian culture and remain a symbol of natural beauty. The back also features the Garuda Pancasila, Indonesia's national emblem, at upper right, representing the five principles of Indonesian state philosophy.

History

This note belongs to the 1982 series of Indonesian rupiah, issued during the New Order era under President Suharto. The series emphasized Indonesia's cultural diversity and natural heritage, with each denomination featuring traditional architecture and endemic wildlife from different regions of the archipelago. The 500 rupiah featured Dayak architecture from Kalimantan and the Bird-of-Paradise, highlighting Indonesia's rich biodiversity. Printed by Perum Peruri, Indonesia's state printing company established in 1971. This series was gradually withdrawn in the early 1990s and replaced with updated designs.