MOSCOW - July 10, 2026 – Today, the Bank of Russia (CBR) introduced a modernized 100-ruble banknote with a 2026 issue date. The new series is dedicated to the Central Federal District (CFD), which represents the economic and historical heart of Russia. This change follows a series of modernized banknotes aimed at strengthening protection against counterfeiting while also highlighting significant regions of the country.
According to an official statement from the CBR, the design on the front side and the security features remain consistent with the 2022 version. The front features a fragment of the Spasskaya Tower of the Moscow Kremlin with its weather vanes, complemented by the coat of arms of the Russian Federation. This motif symbolizes the historical significance of Moscow as the capital and center of power. The main novelty is on the back side. Here, a stylized map of the Central Federal District appears, similar to the modernized banknotes of higher denominations (such as the 5000-ruble note from 2023). The map highlights the key regions of the district, which includes 18 federal subjects including Moscow and the Moscow region. This design underscores the economic strength of the region, which generates a significant portion of Russia's GDP.
Another prominent feature on the back is a motif associated with the Rzhev Memorial to the Soviet Soldier. This monumental complex near Rzhev commemorates one of the bloodiest battles of the Great Patriotic War (1942–1943). It was opened in 2020 and has become an important symbol of the heroism of Soviet soldiers. The inclusion of the memorial in the banknote's design underscores historical memory and patriotism. The banknote has standard dimensions of 150 × 65 mm and features predominantly olive and orange tones. Security features include modern technologies that make counterfeiting more difficult – watermarks, microprints, security threads, and optically variable elements. The new 100-ruble banknote remains legal tender alongside older versions and must be accepted for all payments.
```According to experts at the CBR, the gradual modernization of banknotes is part of a long-term strategy. The goal is not only to increase the security of currency but also to promote the cultural and historical heritage of individual federal districts. In the coming years, further issues dedicated to other regions can be expected. The introduction of the new banknote comes at a time when the Russian economy faces various challenges, including international sanctions. Nevertheless, cash remains an important part of the payment system, especially in rural areas. The new banknote is intended to gradually replace worn-out banknotes in circulation. Overall, the 2026 100-ruble banknote represents a symbolic and practical innovation. It combines tradition with modern security standards and commemorates the rich history of Central Russia.