History of Vietnamese Dong
In ancient Vietnam, metallic currency was made of copper. From 1885 to 1954, Vietnam used the piastre, issued and circulated by the French colonial government in Indochina.
In 1945, under the leadership of Hồ Chí Minh, the Việt Minh gained independence from France and established the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. To replace the French Indochinese piastre, the government began issuing its own paper currency, called the đồng. The initial denominations of the đồng were 1, 5, and 10 đồng.
After the French left Vietnam, the North and South operated under two different regimes, each issuing its own version of the đồng. In the South, distinct currency began circulating from 1953.
In 1975, North and South Vietnam were reunified. In 1978, the State Bank of Vietnam was established, and the government also began efforts to standardize the currency. Since then, the đồng has undergon numerous changes in design and materials.
Vietnamese Dong
Code: VN
Vietnamese: Đồng
Symbol: đ
Material: Vietnamese banknotes are produced using two main materials:
• Polymer: Made from biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), polymer banknotes are highly durable, tear-resistant, waterproof, and resistant to dirt and chemicals.
Polymer banknotes begin to be affected at temperatures around 70-90°C (158-194°F). At these temperatures, they may warp, deform, shrink, or even partially melt if exposed directly to high heat sources. Under normal environmental conditions, however, they remain stable and long-lasting.
• Cotton paper: Traditional banknotes are printed on cotton-based paper made from natural cotton fibers. This material has good absorbency, allows for clear watermark features, and provides a distinctive textured feel.
Central bank: State Bank of Vietnam
Frequently used banknotes: 1000đ, 2000đ, 5000đ, 10000đ, 20000đ, 50000đ, 100000đ, 200000đ 500000đ
All of Vietnam's banknotes feature the portrait of President Hồ Chí Minh.
Hồ Chí Minh (born Nguyễn Sinh Cung, May 19, 1890 - September 2, 1969) was a Vietnamese revolutionary and statesman. He was the founder of the Communist Party of Vietnam. After the victory of the August Revolution (1945) and Emperor Bảo Đại's abdication, on September 2, 1945, at Ba Đình Square, President Hồ Chí Minh read the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. After 1945, he held several positions: President of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (1946-1969), Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (1946-1955), General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Vietnam Workers' Party (1951-1960), and Chairman of the Central Committee of the Vietnam Workers' Party (1951-1969).
• 1000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: Logging and transporting timber by elephants in the Central HighlandsIn the 20th century, logging and transporting timber by elephants was a prevalent practice in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Elephants, renowned for their strength and ability to carry heavy loads, were indispensable in navigating the dense, rugged forests of the region. These majestic animals were trained to move large logs from the heart of the forest to the transportation routes, a task that would have been nearly impossible with human labor alone. Their remarkable ability to maneuver through difficult terrain, including steep slopes and narrow paths, made them the perfect choice for this challenging work. As a result, elephants played a crucial role in the timber trade, facilitating the extraction of valuable wood from the forests to be processed and used in various industries.
• 2000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: Nam Định Textile FactoryThe Nam Định Textile Factory, established by the French at the end of the 19th century, was once the largest textile mill in Indochina. The French colonialists built it to meet the growing demand for textiles in the region, and it became a symbol of industrial progress in Vietnam under their rule. After the end of the First Indochina War in 1954, the factory was nationalized and taken over by the Vietnamese government, marking a significant shift in the country's industrial landscape. At its peak, the Nam Định Textile Factory employed a substantial portion of the local population, with around a quarter of Nam Định's residents working within the factory's walls. This made it not only an economic powerhouse for the region but also a vital part of the community's social and cultural fabric. The factory played a major role in shaping the city's economy, providing jobs, and contributing to the development of Vietnam's textile industry.
• 5000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: Trị An Hydropower PlantThe Trị An Hydropower Plant, located on the Đồng Nai River, was constructed in 1984 with financial and technological assistance from the Soviet Union. The project includes four generating units, each designed to work together to achieve a total capacity of 400 MW. With this capacity, the plant is capable of producing an average annual output of 1.7 billion kWh, providing a significant source of electricity to the surrounding areas. The Trị An Hydropower Plant has become a cornerstone of the region’s economic development, as it not only supplies power to local industries but also meets the growing energy demands of the population. Over the years, it has played a key role in enhancing the living standards of local communities, supporting agriculture, manufacturing, and other economic activities that rely heavily on a stable electricity supply.
• 10000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: Bạch Hổ Oil FieldThe Bạch Hổ Oil Field, situated on the continental shelf off the southern coast of Vietnam, is located about 145 km from Vũng Tàu. This oil field was discovered in 1986 and has since become one of the most significant energy sources for Vietnam. The extraction unit operates as a joint venture between Vietnam's state-owned oil and gas company, PetroVietnam, and Russia's Zarubezhneft. Spanning a large area, the Bạch Hổ Oil Field is the largest in Vietnam, with extensive reserves that have been crucial to the nation's energy supply. It not only meets a substantial portion of the country's domestic oil needs but also supports export activities. The oil field plays an essential role in maintaining national energy security, ensuring a stable supply of petroleum products, and fostering industrial development. In addition to its contribution to the energy sector, the Bạch Hổ Oil Field has promoted economic growth and job creation in the surrounding areas, significantly impacting the region's social and economic landscape.
• 20000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: The Japanese Covered Bridge in Hội AnThe Japanese Covered Bridge, located in the historic town of Hội An, Quảng Nam Province, Vietnam, is a unique and iconic structure that dates back to the 17th century. Built by Japanese merchants as part of their settlement in the town, the bridge was intended to connect the Japanese quarters with the Chinese district across the stream. It is an example of the cultural and architectural exchange between Japan, China, and Vietnam during that period.
Legend has it that the bridge was constructed as a protective measure against a giant sea monster called Namazu, believed to reside beneath the ocean. According to folklore, whenever Namazu swished its tail, it would trigger earthquakes and tsunamis. The people of Hội An, seeking to prevent these natural disasters, believed that the bridge was designed as a sword piercing the back of the Namazu, stopping it from thrashing and causing destruction. The dog and monkey statues at either end of the bridge are thought to serve as guardians against the monster, adding a spiritual layer to the bridge's design.
In 1719, Lord Nguyễn Phúc Chu visited Hội An and, recognizing the bridge's significance, named it "Lai Viễn Kiều," which means "the bridge that welcomes travelers from afar." The bridge, with its distinctive architectural style, red lacquered beams, and tiled roof, has become one of Hội An's most famous landmarks, attracting both local and international visitors who come to admire its beauty and learn about the rich history and legends that surround it.
• 50000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: Nghinh Lương Pavilion and Phu Văn Lâu, HuếNghinh Lương Pavilion was built in 1852 during the fifth year of Emperor Tự Đức’s reign and is situated along the serene banks of the Sông Hương (Perfume River), directly opposite Phu Văn Lâu. The pavilion, with its elegant design and tranquil surroundings, was specifically constructed to serve as a resting place for the emperor. It provided a peaceful environment for him to relax before embarking on leisurely cruises along the river on his dragon boats. The pavilion not only offered comfort but also served as a scenic spot for the emperor to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, making it a place of both relaxation and royal significance.
Phu Văn Lâu, constructed in 1819 during the reign of Emperor Gia Long, is another iconic structure along the main axis of the Imperial City of Huế. This historic building served as a critical vantage point, offering a wide view of the Sông Hương and the city of Huế. It was a significant location for the emperor and his officials to admire the city's beauty and oversee the bustling life along the river. Phu Văn Lâu also held an important administrative function, serving as the location where time was signaled throughout the day, and where the emperor's nighttime curfew orders were issued. The structure is symbolic of the region's historical and cultural heritage, representing both a place of governance and a scenic viewpoint that captured the essence of the imperial era in Huế.
• 100000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: Khuê Văn CácKhuê Văn Các, one of the five gates that divide the inner area of the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, was built in 1805 during the reign of Emperor Gia Long. The structure is a prime example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, showcasing the distinctive features of wooden frame construction and a curved tiled roof. Khuê Văn Các stands out with its graceful design, symbolizing the deep reverence for knowledge and education in Vietnamese culture. The second floor is supported by eight sturdy columns and is adorned with four eaves, giving it a regal and open appearance. Below, the first floor is characterized by four arched windows, offering a sense of elegance and allowing light to filter through.
This iconic building is more than just an architectural wonder; it serves as a symbol of Vietnam’s long-standing educational and scholarly traditions. Khuê Văn Các is an integral part of the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, where Confucian teachings were imparted and scholars were honored. The structure is dedicated to the study of literature and the pursuit of knowledge, making it an enduring symbol of intellectual achievement in Vietnamese culture.
Today, Khuê Văn Các is one of the most famous landmarks in Hanoi and a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from both within Vietnam and abroad. Its picturesque setting, historical significance, and cultural symbolism make it a must-visit site for anyone exploring the heritage of Vietnam.
• 200000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: Đỉnh Hương IsletĐỉnh Hương Islet is a large, imposing rock formation that rises from the sea like a giant incense burner, symbolizing a sacred offering to heaven and earth. Located in the southwestern area of Hạ Long Bay, it has become one of the most distinctive landmarks within the bay. Its unique shape and solitary position in the water create a strong sense of spiritual symbolism, making it both a cultural icon and a remarkable natural feature of the region.
Often associated with local legends and traditional beliefs, Đỉnh Hương Islet contributes to the mystical charm of Hạ Long Bay. Its striking silhouette against the sea makes it an unforgettable sight for visitors exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• 500000 Vietnamese Dong
Front: Hồ Chí Minh
Back: Hồ Chí Minh's House in Kim LiênHồ Chí Minh's House in Kim Liên is located within the Kim Liên Historical Site, which holds deep significance as the childhood home of the nation’s revolutionary leader. Situated in Kim Liên Commune, Nam Đàn District, Nghệ An Province, in Central Vietnam, the site is approximately 15 kilometers from Vinh City. The house is a simple yet symbolic structure, reflecting the modest beginnings of Hồ Chí Minh, born as Nguyễn Sinh Cung. It is here that he spent his early years, and the site serves as a reminder of the humble roots that shaped his journey toward becoming one of the most influential figures in Vietnamese history.
The memorial site encompasses several buildings and artifacts that highlight different stages of Hồ Chí Minh's early life, his connection with the people, and his commitment to the nation's independence. The house itself is a traditional rural Vietnamese dwelling, offering visitors a glimpse into the living conditions of the time and the values of simplicity and resilience that Hồ Chí Minh upheld.
Today, Hồ Chí Minh's House in Kim Liên is recognized as a national historical landmark. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Vietnam has designated it as one of the key tourist destinations in the country. Visitors from both within Vietnam and around the world come to the site to pay homage to the legacy of Hồ Chí Minh, explore the history of his childhood, and reflect on the events that shaped his role in Vietnam's struggle for independence and nation-building.
Security Features of Vietnamese Polymer Banknotes
Vietnam’s polymer notes include multiple anti-counterfeiting technologies:
• Transparent window
• Color-shifting ink
• Raised printing
• Microtext
• Security threads
• Watermarks
These features make modern Vietnamese banknotes difficult to counterfeit.
Why Vietnam Switched to Polymer
Vietnam adopted polymer notes to address several challenges:
• High humidity and frequent handling damaged cotton notes quickly
• Counterfeiting became a growing concern
• Polymer notes last significantly longer, reducing printing costs over time
The shift also aligns Vietnam with other countries that use polymer currency, including Australia and Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest Vietnamese banknote?
The highest denomination currently circulating is 500,000 VND.
Are Vietnamese coins still used?
Coins were issued in the early 2000s but are rarely seen in daily transactions today.
Can damaged banknotes be exchanged?
Yes. The State Bank of Vietnam allows exchange of damaged notes under specific conditions.
Vietnamese dong to USD
• 1000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 0.04 US Dollar
• 2000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 0.08 US Dollar
• 5000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 0.20 US Dollar
• 10000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 0.40 US Dollar
• 20000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 0.80 US Dollar
• 50000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 2.00 US Dollar
• 100000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 4.00 US Dollar
• 200000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 8.00 US Dollar
• 500000 Vietnamese Dong ~ 21.00 US Dollar
Final Thoughts
Vietnamese banknotes combine history, culture, and modern security technology. From the historic Japanese Covered Bridge in Hội An to the stunning landscape of Hạ Long Bay, each note tells a story about Vietnam’s national identity and economic progress.