We've often spoken on Cairo Gossip about the amount of creative talent Egypt's brimming with and it's things like the Egyptian Currency Design Challenge that prove it most. The Facebook page, which emerged just days ago, is challenging Egyptians to come up with new, innovative designs for Egypt's paper money, with entrees taking on everything from the recently resurrected 1LE note, to the 200LE note - and some of them are rather cool.

Designed by Maged Sabry

Designed by Alaa Medley

Designed by Ahmed Soudan

The page presents the challenge as nothing more than a bit of fun in light of the Egyptian pound being floated, but the page has already experience some bizarre backlash; many Facebook users condemning a perceived lack of Islamic elements in the designs that have been posted, while others have condemned it for being anti-government. Go figure.

Designed by Alaa Medley

Designed by Ahmed Yehya

Undeterred, the page has, in its very short lifespan, gathered tens of thousands of followers as well as several interesting adaptations and interpretations, some of which touch on both Egypt's ancient and modern history, as well as the country's rich cultural history. The page has reportedly received tens more, but will be rolling them out steadily.

Designed by Mirna Mikhal

Designed by Mostapha Abu Bakr

For more information, check out the Egyptian Currency Challenge Facebook page.
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By Kalam El Qahaira