25 Rupiah #281

Front

Traditional Balinese temple compound with thatched-roof pavilions (bale) in typical Balinese architectural style. The vignette shows a temple courtyard with split gate (candi bentar) and traditional Hindu-Balinese religious architecture. A Barong mask, representing a protective spirit in Balinese mythology, appears at right. The front includes a lengthy penalty clause in Indonesian warning against counterfeiting and damaging currency, stating that such acts will be punished according to law. The design reflects Indonesia's cultural heritage and traditional architectural forms from the island of Bali.

Back

Indonesian weaver at traditional loom with textile production scene. The vignette depicts a woman working at a handloom, representing Indonesia's traditional textile industry and crafts, particularly the production of batik and ikat fabrics that are central to Indonesian cultural identity. A volcanic mountain, likely representing one of Indonesia's many active volcanoes that dominate the landscape of Java and other islands, appears at right. The design emphasizes traditional industry and Indonesia's natural geography.

History

This note belongs to the Series 1958 issued by Bank Indonesia during the period of Parliamentary Democracy under President Sukarno. These notes were printed domestically by Pertjetakan Kebajoran (later known as Perum Peruri). The series featured Indonesian cultural motifs and traditional scenes, emphasizing national identity in the post-independence period. The 1958 series was in circulation during a period of economic instability and was eventually replaced by the 1964 series during currency reforms. The elaborate penalty clause on the front reflects concerns about counterfeiting in the early years of the Republic.