Yemen 500 Rials UNC Banknote | 2017 | P#39

Obverse | Al-Muhdhar Mosque in Tarim

The front presents the Al-Muhdhar Mosque in Tarim, Hadramaut, giving the 500 Rials denomination one of the most recognizable architectural subjects in this modern Yemeni series. The mosque is especially distinctive for its tall minaret and traditional Hadrami architectural character.

Rather than relying on a portrait as its principal subject, the design places regional architecture at the center of the banknote. Consequently, P#39 immediately stands apart within collections organized around mosques, Islamic architecture, Hadramaut, or Arabian Peninsula landmarks.

Reverse | Dar al-Hajar Palace of the Rock

The reverse features Dar al-Hajar, also known as the Palace of the Rock, in Wadi Dahr near Sana’a. Built dramatically on top of a natural rock formation, the structure has become one of Yemen’s most recognizable architectural landmarks.

Furthermore, the palace creates an effective visual counterpart to Al-Muhdhar Mosque. While the front represents the architectural traditions of Hadramaut, the reverse shifts attention toward the distinctive multi-storey architecture associated with the Sana’a region. Therefore, both sides contribute independently to the note’s collector appeal.

• Paper composition: Traditional paper banknote construction.
• Design orientation: Architectural subjects appear prominently on both sides.
• Obverse landmark: Al-Muhdhar Mosque in Tarim, Hadramaut.
• Reverse landmark: Dar al-Hajar in Wadi Dahr.
• Condition: Supplied in UNC condition for clean collector presentation.
• Variation notice: Serial numbers and production details may differ from the photographed example.

Two Architectural Traditions on One Banknote

One of the strongest features of this denomination is the relationship between its two principal subjects. On one side, Al-Muhdhar Mosque represents the distinctive architectural character of Tarim and Hadramaut. On the other, Dar al-Hajar presents a completely different structure built dramatically into Yemen’s mountainous landscape.

As a result, the note offers more than a simple denomination position. It can also become part of thematic collections devoted to Islamic architecture, historic buildings, palaces, mosques, or landmarks appearing on world banknotes.

Why P#39 Stands Out in the Modern Series

The neighboring denominations explore different aspects of Yemen’s heritage. By comparison, the 500 Rials issue concentrates particularly strongly on architecture. This gives collectors an easy visual reference when arranging the modern series together.

In addition, both principal landmarks are highly distinctive. Therefore, even collectors who do not specialize exclusively in Yemen can appreciate the note as an architectural entry within a broader Middle Eastern collection.

The 500 Rials denomination provides the next major step after the lower-value modern Yemeni notes. For collectors building the sequence individually, P#39 helps extend the collection toward the higher denominations while introducing a different visual theme.

Because this listing contains a single 500 Rials banknote, it is especially useful for filling this specific catalogue position. Alternatively, collectors beginning with P#39 can later expand around it with the other denominations from Yemen’s contemporary series.

• Single banknote: One authentic Yemen 500 Rials note.
• 2017 issue: Dated 1438 AH / 2017.
• Mosque obverse: Features Al-Muhdhar Mosque in Tarim.
• Palace reverse: Features Dar al-Hajar in Wadi Dahr.
• UNC condition: Suitable for clean album presentation.
• Architectural focus: Strong choice for Yemen and architecture-themed collections.

• Use archival protection: Keep the note inside an acid-free currency sleeve.
• Protect the edges: Handle it carefully and avoid unnecessary surface contact.
• Control humidity: Store the banknote in a stable, dry environment.
• Limit light exposure: Avoid prolonged direct sunlight to help preserve printed colors.

The Yemen 500 Rials 2017 issue pairs Al-Muhdhar Mosque in Hadramaut with the remarkable Dar al-Hajar Palace of the Rock, giving P#39 a distinctive architectural identity within the modern Yemeni banknote series.