Paraguay to demonetize all 1,000-guarní notes in 2014


According to a press release from the Banco Central del Paraguay dated 24.12.2009, all 1,000-guaraní notes will no longer be legal tender on 06.01.2011, and will be demonetized 06.01.2014.

North Korea 5-won overprinted 2002 note (BNP305) confirmed


This 5-won note is like B308 with an original date of 1978, but overprinted in black “Sun’s Day, Celebration, 90th Anniversary 15th. 4. Juche 91 (2002)” in honor of the 90th birthday (15.04.2002) of President Kim Il Sung.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Indonesia new date (2009) notes confirmed

All denominations of notes from Bank Indonesia have now been confirmed dated 2009 with new signatures.



Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Bill Stubkjaer.

Chile new 5,000-peso polymer note (B298) confirmed


On 18 August 2009, El Banco Central de Chile unveiled a new 5,000-peso (US$9.15) note, the first in a new family of five notes to commemorate 200 years of independence. Other denominations will follow over the course of the next two years. Three of the denominations will be printed on polymer and the other two will be printed on paper. All of the notes were designed by the Swedish company Crane AB, which will also print the paper notes. The polymer notes are printed by Note Printing Australia.

The new polymer 5,000-peso note was introduced on 24 September 2009. Existing 5,000-peso notes remain legal tender, but will be slowly withdrawn from circulation.

The front of this note features a portrait of Gabriela Mistral, images of the heart of Copihue, Antu, and the national flower, the symbol mapuche representing the sun and fertility. The back depicts La Campana National Park, located on the Cordillera de la Costa de la V Region of Valparaiso, which contains one of the few native forests of Chilean Palm. It also contains the image of a Tucúquere, a bird of prey.

Courtesy of Cleophas Elmakias Schockemohle, Marcus Jansson, Bill Stubkjaer, and Kai Hwong.

Lesotho new date (2009) 100-maloti note confirmed


100 maloti (US$12.80), 2009. Like Pick 19d, but new date.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Jordan new sig/date (2009) 20-dinar note (B233c) confirmed

Jordan_CBJ_20_dinars_2009.00.00_B233c_P37c_fJordan_CBJ_20_dinars_2009.00.00_B233c_P37c_r
Like B233b, but new date (AH 1430 / 2009) and new signatures (Mohammad Abo Hamoor and Ummaya Toukan).

Courtesy of Mahdi Bseiso.

Vietnam denies rumor of million-dong note


According to a VNBusinessNews.com article dated 02.12.2009, Nguyen Ngoc Bao, the director of the Monetary Policy Department, has denied rumors that the State Bank of Vietnam plans to issue 1,000,000-dong (US$54) banknotes. At present the largest denomination in Vietnam is the polymer 500,000-dong note (Pick 124, shown above).

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Singapore new signature 50-dollar note confirmed


50 dollars (US$34.80), no date. Like Pick 49, but new signature and one square below the word ARTS on back.

Courtesy of Vincent Tan.

Singapore new 100-dollar note confirmed




100 dollars (US$72.15). Like Pick 42, but now issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and signed by Chairman Goh Chok Tong. Despite the lower denominations having made the transition to polymer, this note remains printed on paper. This note has been confirmed in varieties with one and two squares below the word YOUTH on the back. If anyone has an example of this note without a square, or with more than two squares, please send images of same.

Courtesy of Tan Wi Jie and Vincent Tan.

Sri Lanka new 1,000-rupee commemorative confirmed


According to a press release, on 17.11.2009 the Central Bank of Sri Lanka introduced a new 1,000-rupee (US$8.75) commemorative banknote to mark the ushering of peace and prosperity to Sri Lanka.

In terms of section 52 A (1) (a) and ( b) of the Monetary Law Act (Amendment) No.6 of 1998, with the approval of the Hon. Minister of Finance, the Central Bank issues commemorative coins and notes. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka issued the first commemorative note to mark the 50th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka in 1998 and this is the second commemorative note that is being issued.

The theme on the obverse of the note is one country and one nation in harmony, progressing towards prosperity under the leadership of His Excellency President, Mahinda Rajapaksa. The obverse depicts the image of His Excellency President, Mahinda Rajapaksa, which is to the right of the note. A map of Sri Lanka with the rising sun in the background and a “Punkalasa” with ears of paddy at center left depicts territorial integrity and prosperity respectively, that are results of national harmony and peace.

The valiant contribution made by the nation’s victorious sons and daughters of the security forces and the police is the theme on the reverse of the note. The design at the center depicts the hoisting of the national flag by members of the security forces. Images of the Mavil Aru annicut and Thoppigala rock (Baron’s Cap) that were turning points of humanitarian operations of the security forces appear in the background.

The size of the note is 157 mm x 78.5 mm and the predominant colour is blue. The notes are identified by a serial prefix of Q and the numbers of the notes are starting from Q/1 000001 onwards and appear on the obverse in Arabic numerals, horizontally on the left and vertically on the right of the note.

The note contains several current security features. The watermark depicting the heraldic lion of Sri Lanka, with the sword highlighted in a panel clear of printing and Cornerstones as hitherto used in current Sri Lanka Rs 1000 note, 1.2 mm wide windowed clear text security thread, see-through feature in exact registration and invisible fluorescent printing have been incorporated in the note.
The note carries the signatures in facsimile of His Excellency the President and Minister of Finance, Mahinda Rajapaksa and the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Mr Ajith Nivard Cabraal, with the date 2009-05-20.

The note was issued to His Excellency President, Mahinda Rajapaksa, by the Governor of the Central Bank, Mr Ajith Nivard Cabraal on 17th November 2009 at the John Exter International Conference Hall of the Central Bank in Colombo. A limited number of notes with the first serial numbers in an attractive folder will be issued at a price of Rs. 1,500 each.

The note will be legal tender in Sri Lanka for the payment of any amount and will be a liability of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka whilst in circulation.

Courtesy of Aidan Work and Vincent Tan.

Nigeria new date (2009) 200-naira note confirmed


200 naira (US$1.30), 2009. Like Pick 29, but new date. There are also some very subtle differences in the design and engravings which may belie a change in printers between this and the 2008 dated note.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Venezuela new date/signature varieties confirmed


2 bolivares fuerte (US$0.95), 19 DE DICIEMBRE DE 2008 (19.12.2008). Like Pick 88, but new date and new signatures.


5 bolivares fuerte (US$2.35), 19 DE DICIEMBRE DE 2008 (19.12.2008). Like Pick 89, but new date and new signatures (as above).


50 bolivares fuerte (US$23.30), 24 DE MAYO DE 2007 (24.05.2007). Like Pick 92, but new date.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Nigeria new date/sig (2009) 5-naira note confirmed


5 naira (US$0.03), 2009. Like Pick 32, but new date, new signatures (Lamido Aminu Sanusi, GOVERNOR; Benjamin C. Onyido, DIRECTOR OF CURRENCY AND BRANCH OPERATIONS), and new titles.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 100-pound note confirmed


On 15 December 2009, Clydesdale Bank introduced a new 100-pound (US$161) banknote featuring artist and architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh on the front and the Heart of Neolithic Orkney on the back. This is the last denomination to be issued in the new world heritage series marking the Year of Homecoming. The new notes are the first in the UK to use a new “depth image” hologram security feature in the form of a moving image behind the prominent front picture.

Courtesy of Colin Meikle.

Gulf Cooperation Council agrees to single currency

According to a Gulf News article dated 16 December 2009, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) leaders concluded their annual two-day summit with an agreement to form a monetary union, paving the way for a single currency for Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia; Oman and the United Arab Emirates opted out. A monetary council is to be established in early 2010, and will transition into a central bank, which will eventually issue a single currency, though no timeline was announced.

Courtesy of Amirali Somji.

Israel announces new notes to be issued 2010-2012

According to an article on Haaretz.com, over the next two years the Bank of Israel will issue new banknotes featuring portraits of Zionist visionary Theodor Herzl and three former prime ministers: David Ben-Gurion, Menachem Begin, and Yitzhak Rabin. The bank has decided against issuing a proposed NIS 500 (US$132) denomination.

The bank’s experiment with a NIS 20 (US$5.25) note printed on polymer is considered a success, so it’s possible the new notes will also be printed on polymer, though a decision on the substrate has not been announced. "With the new set of bills, the bank will be at the forefront of the technological stage on all matters related to the war against counterfeiting," the Bank of Israel said. "The security measures will be friendly to the public so that it will be possible, with relative ease, to spot counterfeit money."

Thailand new signature 500-baht note confirmed


500 baht (US$15.05), no date. Like Pick 107, but new signature (Korn & Tharisa Wattanaket). All banknote denominations of series 15 are now complete with this signature type.

Courtesy of Sanjay Basu.

North Korea 1998 500-won variety (B319c) confirmed


Apparently there are two varieties of North Korea’s 500-won note dated 1998 (B319). The first one features fine lines in the clouds surrounding the palace on the front (above, top). On the second one, reportedly issued in 2002 or 2005, the fine lines of the clouds blur into a solid fog as they get closer to the palace (above, bottom). There are also slight differences in the clouds depicted on the back of the note, and it appears that the color of the square seal with star on the watermark area may also be different, though this may be due to variations in printing over time.

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Zimbabwe lined paper 50,000-dollar note confirmed


50,000 dollars, 2008. Like Pick 74, but printed on paper with horizontal lines.

The only other denomination observed printed on lined paper is the 20,000-dollar note (Pick 73). Based upon the serial numbers reported so far, it appears the $20,000 note was first printed on lined paper, then switched to plain paper, whereas the $50,000 note appears to have been printed on plain paper first, then lined paper.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Zambia new date (2009) 1,000-kwacha note (B146g) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_1000_kwacha_2009.00.00_B146g_P44g_EN-03_2270576_fZambia_BOZ_1000_kwacha_2009.00.00_B146g_P44g_EN-03_2270576_r
Like B146f, but new date (2009).

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Yemen new 250-rial note (B127) confirmed


The Central Bank of Yemen introduced a new 250-rial (US$1.20) note on 14 November 2009 with the following specifications:

General and Technical Specifications:
A- The size is 158 mm x 75 mm.
B - There is a water mark depicting the coat of arms of the Republic of Yemen located on the right hand side of the face of the banknote.
C- The YR 250 banknote has many features and elements enabling easy detection of its authenticity. They include:
1. The script is prominently printed on the banknote (intaglio) , giving it a distinctive roughness to the touch. The banknote shows the denomination value, the name of the Central Bank of Yemen and the signature of the Bank Governor.
2. There is a star at the bottom of the face of the banknote, half of which is brown while the other half is white.
3. The dome of the mosque appears in a uniform pink color when looking at the banknote directly. But if the banknote is slightly tilted, the color of the background of the dome changes into the colors of a rainbow and shows the denomination value.
4. When light is shed on the back of the banknote the thread stripe changes from a winding zigzagging silver form into dark straight broad black filament and the denomination value appears in white bright color all along the filament.
5. There are modern methods of detecting the authenticity of the banknote, such as by using counting and sorting machines or when the banknote is exposed to ultra violet rays.

Specifications of the Face of the Banknote:
A. A general view of Al-Saleh mosque with its name written at the bottom of the picture.
B. The phrase " Central Bank of Yemen" printed at the top center of the banknote, followed by "Central Bank of Yemen" then "Signature" above the word "Governor".
C. The denomination value is prominently printed in Arabic numbers at the bottom right hand side of the banknote. On the top right hand side of the banknote there are Islamic geometrical designs.
D. Letter-Press printing of the serial numbers printed in red ink at the top right hand side of the paper and in black ink at the bottom left hand side of the banknote.
E. Date of printing 1430 H - 2009 in Arabic.

Specifications of the back of the banknote:
A. A picture of the Mukalla Khor with its name depicted at the bottom of the Khor.
B. The name of the Central Bank of Yemen in English at the top center of the banknote.
C. Printing of the value of the denomination (250) in Arabic numbers at the top left hand side of the banknote and the bottom right hand side of the banknote.
D. Decorative Islamic geometric designs.
E. The back of the banknote contains several advanced security features some of them can be easily recognized by the man in the street, but others can only be detected by counting and sorting machines or when exposed to ultraviolet rays.

Courtesy of Richard Miranda, Hamdy Alsamt, and Luca Maria Peri.

United Arab Emirates building new banknote plant

According to a GulfNew.com article dated 13.12.2009, the Central Bank of the UAE has announced it has begun building a security press to print banknotes. The plant is being built on a plot of land near the Central Bank building complex in Abu Dhabi. The plant will print all denominations of UAE dinar notes and will have excess capacity for future expansion and printing of notes for other countries in the region.

Zambia new date (2009) 50-kwacha note (B138i) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_50_kwacha_2009.00.00_B138i_P37h_BX-03_6148006_fZambia_BOZ_50_kwacha_2009.00.00_B138i_P37h_BX-03_6148006_r
Like B138h, but new date (2009).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Pakistan new date (2009) 1,000-rupee note (B238d) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_1000_rupees_2009.00.00_B238d_P50d_AU_2558866_fPakistan_SBP_1000_rupees_2009.00.00_B238d_P50d_AU_2558866_r
Like B238d, but new date (2009) and new signature (Governor Syed Salim Raza).

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Afghanistan to introduce new series of notes

Central Bank of Afghanistan introduces a new family of Afghani Banknotes

At a press-conference held on Mizan 13, 1388 (2009) the Central Bank Governor, His Excellency Abdul Qadeer Fitrat, announced that a new family of banknotes would soon be released to the public.

The bank notes are machine readable, of better quality and have more advanced security features than current banknotes. The security features provide robust protection against counterfeiting.

As a result of the improved quality of the banknotes Governor Fitrat reported that the new banknotes will have a greater longevity (4 years) than existing banknotes (3 years).

The Central bank will gradually replace the existing 85 billion Afs that have been issued to date with the new and improved notes. Old, mutilated and dirty notes will be gradually removed from circulation and destroyed in the Central Banks furnace.

The introduction of new banknotes is standard procedure for central banks around the world. Previously, Afghanistan had three separate currencies which lead to hyper-inflation and macroeconomic instability. The currency reform of 1381 introduced a single currency which is issued exclusively by the central Bank. As a result of these reforms the Afghani currency is one of the most stable currencies in the region.

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Pakistan new sig/date (2008 and 2009) 5,000-rupee notes (B239c, B239d) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_5000_rupees_2008.00.00_B239c_P51c_K_6053608_fPakistan_SBP_5000_rupees_2008.00.00_B239c_P51c_K_6053608_r
Like B239b, but new date (2008). Prefix K.

Pakistan_SBP_5000_rupees_2009.00.00_B239d_P51d_L_5676296_fPakistan_SBP_5000_rupees_2009.00.00_B239d_P51d_L_5676296_r
Like B239c, but new date (2009) and new signature (Governor Syed Salim Raza). Prefix L.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Nigeria new date/sig (2009) 500-naira note confirmed


500 naira (US$4.30), 2009. Like P30, but new date, new signatures (Lamido Aminu Sanusi, GOVERNOR; Benjamin C. Onyido, DIRECTOR OF CURRENCY AND BRANCH OPERATIONS), and new titles.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

South Korea 1983 1,000-won varieties reported

Color varieties for South Korea 1,000-won (US$0.85) note (Pick 47) from 1983 have recently been reported. Specifically, it appears that the portrait on the front and the buildings on the back are purple on one variety, and brown on the other variety. Furthermore, on the “purple” variety, the numerals 1000 at lower right on back are blue, whereas they are purple on the “brown” variety. Finally, the engraving or printing on the “brown” variety appears sharper than the “purple” variety, though there are no other differences in the text, underprinting, watermarks, or other security features.

The scans below were created at the same time, so the color variations are not a result of differences in the equipment. Collectors are encouraged to examine their notes and report if they can verify these differences on other examples. Also, I would appreciate hearing from collectors who can determine which of these notes came first based upon their serial number prefixes.

Purple Brown

Purple
Brown

Courtesy of Kevin Klauss.

North Korea watermark varieties reported

It has recently been reported that the North Korea 100-won note dated 1992 (Pick 43) is available with three different watermark varieties: small Arch of Triumph at angle, large Arch of Triumph straight on, and no watermark. The color scheme and printing on the note with the bigger arch watermark is slightly lighter than the others.



In reality, the watermark isn’t missing from the rightmost example, it’s just misplaced. Document security expert Rudolf L. van Renesse has sent a detailed examination of these notes which proves conclusively that there are watermarks in the wrong positions which can be seen under the proper viewing angles.

Collectors are encouraged to examine their North Korean notes carefully and report any other denominations which have different watermark varieties.

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya and Rudolf L. van Renesse.

India replacing 1- and 2-rupee notes with coins

According to an article in The Economic Times dated 08.12.09, the Reserve Bank of India is replacing 1- and 2-rupee banknotes with coins due to the short life span and high costs of printing small-denomination notes. In a written reply to Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Finance Namo Narain Meena said, "The notes of these denominations have been coinised…The Reserve Bank has informed that in view of the short life span of the lower denominations notes of Re 1, Rs 2, and Rs 5 and the high cost involved in printing and processing of soiled notes of these denominations, the government has decided to discontinue the printing of lower denominations notes," Meena said.

Bangladesh new signature variety 20-taka note reported

In a press release dated 02.12.2009, Bangladesh Bank announced the 06.12.2009 introduction of a 20-taka (US$0.30) note signed by Governor Dr. Atiur Rahman. It appears to be a new date/signature variety only.

Courtesy of Nat Denkin and Mohammed J. Islam.


Hungary new date (2009) 10,000-forint note (B585b) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_10000_forint_2009.00.00_B585b_P200b_AC_2400225_f
Like B585a, but new date (2009).
 
Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Jamaica new date (15.01.2008) 50-, 500-, and 1,000-dollar notes confirmed


50 dollars (US$0.55). Like Pick 83, but new date (15.01.2008).


500 dollars (US$5.60). Like Pick 85, but new date (15.01.2008).


1,000 dollars (US$11.20). Like Pick 86, but new date (15.01.2008).

Courtesy of Banknoteshop and Thomas Krause.

Namibia new prefix 10- and 20-dollar notes confirmed


10 dollars (US$1.35), no date. Like Pick 4, but 8-digit serial number with B prefix and no UV 10 at right front.


20 dollars (US$2.70), no date. Like Pick 6, but 8-digit serial number with H prefix.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Czech Republic new 5,000-korun note confirmed


On 1 December 2009, the Czech National Bank introduced a new version of the 5,000-korun (US$287) note, now dated 2009 (offset printed in black) and with enhanced security features. The 1999 note of the same denomination remains legal tender, while the 1993 version remains exchangeable at the CNB.

The 2009 note is signed by Governor Tůma and bears series letter C. Among its new security features are “bichrome patterned iridescent metallic strip of overlapping gold and purple with recurring quartets of linden leaves and negative 5000s” to the right of the portrait on the front of the note. The note is also protected by Omron rings, 3-mm wide puce-to-green color-shifting windowed security thread with demetalized ČNB 5000 Kč, and the watermark of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk now has 5000 and sitting eagle electrotype elements.

Courtesy of Kevin Klauss and Evzen Sknouril.

North Korea revalues and replaces currency

According to a report on DailyNK, the North Korean central bank has revalued and is replacing the national currency as of 30 November 2009. With the exchange rate of 100:1, the formerly largest denomination of 5,000 won is now equivalent to 50 new won. Apparently there are nine new won notes ranging from 5 to 5,000 won, which matches the previous currency structure with the exception that the 1-won note has been replaced by a coin and the 2,000-won denomination is new.

There is little concrete information on the reason for this move. Speculation is that the government hopes to dampen inflation, harm the black market, or uncover large caches of hidden cash. The official exchange rate of the won had been 140 to the US dollar, but on the black market it traded at closer to 3,000 to one.

Initially, the government planned to allow each household to exchange up to 100,000 won for new banknotes, but in the face of public protests, the exchangeable amount has been increased, initially to 150,000 won, then later to 500,000 won. These limitations apply only to cash; won deposited in banks can be converted, but only after officials investigate the source of funds over one million won. Citizens have from between 30 November and 6 December to exchange currency. New notes will start circulating from 7 December.



Courtesy of Paul Nahmias and Alex Klark.

Isle of Man new signature 1-pound note confirmed


1 pound (US$1.65), ND. Like Pick 40, but new signature (P. M. Shimmin, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER) and two-character prefix.

Courtesy of Pam West.

Jamaica new 5,000-dollar note (B242) confirmed


According to a 14 September 2009 press release, on 24 September the Bank of Jamaica issued its highest denomination ever, a new 5,000-dollar (US$56) note. The portrait of the late former Prime Minster of Jamaica, the Rt. Hon. Hugh Lawson Shearer, appears on the front of the note. The back features blossoms of the Frangipani and an aerial view of Highway 2000.

In addition to the standard security features on the existing banknotes—magnetic thread and ink, iridescence, florescence and watermark—the $5,000 banknote is protected against counterfeiting by Optiks, De La Rue's wide security thread for use on paper notes with a large oval window. The thread depicts the Jamaica coat of arms, and when held up to the light, the complete thread with “BOJ $5000” will become visible. The note also features a watermark of Shearer with electrotype 5000 and Cornerstone watermarks.

The new note is dated 15.01.2009, bears the signature of the Governor of the Bank of Jamaica, Derick Latibeaudiere, and has the DA LE RUE printer imprint.

Courtesy of Marcus Jansson and Frank van Tiel.

Zambia new date (2009) 100-kwacha note (B139i) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_100_kwacha_2009.00.00_B139i_P38h_CZ-03_1158103_fZambia_BOZ_100_kwacha_2009.00.00_B139i_P38h_CZ-03_1158103_r
Like B139h, but new date (2009).

Courtesy of Thomas Krause and Andrew Roberts.

Uganda new date (2009) 20,000-shilling note confirmed


20,000 shillings (US$10.65), 2009. Like Pick 46, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of Richard Miranda.

Uganda new serial number format on 1,000-shilling note confirmed


On 27 August 2009, the Bank of Uganda announced that it would introduce a 1,000-shilling (US$0.50) note with a modified serial number format on 1 September 2009. The notes are like the current note of the same denomination (Pick 43), except that they carry serial numbers with a single prefx letter followed by seven digits, instead of the preceding two-letter prefix followed by six digits.

According to Raimondi Otim, deputy director of the currency department at BoU, “This is just a slight change in the numbering only, but the security features and the colurs of the notes remains the same. This development does not mean that the old Shs1,000 banknotes have ceased to be valid. The new Shs1,000 banknotes will be in circulation alongside the old banknotes,” he said.

Courtesy of Richard Miranda.

Gambia new signature 5-dalasis note confirmed


5 dalasis (US$0.20), no date. Red. Front: Giant kingfisher bird; young Gambian girl. Back: Man with cattle in field; palm trees. Solid security thread printed THE GAMBIA. Watermark: Crocodile head. Printer: (TDLR). 132 x 69 mm. Introduced 16.04.2009. Like Pick 25, but new signatures: Governor Saho and First Deputy Governor Njai.

If anyone has the new D10 note also bearing these signatures, please send scans of same so that I can share them with others.

Courtesy of Richard Miranda.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 10-pound note introduced


On 30 November 2009, Clydesdale Bank introduced a new 10-pound (US$16.40) world heritage banknote featuring Robert Burns on the front and Edinburgh’s old and new towns on the back. Clydesdale chief executive Lynne Peacock said: “The new £10 note reflects the excellent reputation Scotland’s people and locations have across the world. As a bank, we are extremely proud to highlight the impact of Robert Burns’s work, as well as the country’s history with the old and new towns of Edinburgh.”

The new £100 note—the last denomination to be released in this new series— is scheduled for introduction in mid-December. The new notes are the first in the UK to use a new “depth image” hologram security feature in the form of a moving image behind the prominent front picture.

Liberia new date (2008) 20-dollar note confirmed


20 dollars (US$0.30)
Like Pick 28, but new date (2008).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Mexico 100-peso commemorative has error


On 23 September 2009, the Bank of Mexico introduced two commemorative banknotes: a paper one to celebrate the bicentennial of independence, and a polymer one to celebrate the centennial of the Mexican Revolution.

The 100-peso commemorative with series A/A-A/E has an error in the microprinted text. On the front, the text appears correctly as “SUFRAGIO EFECTIVO Y NO REELECCION.” However, on the back the second word is misspelled as “ELECTIVO.” Apparently a corrected note will appear in 2010, and the error notes will remain in circulation.

Courtesy of Rickey Stein and Thomas Krause.

Zambia new date (2009) 5,000-kwacha note (B147e) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_5000_kwacha_2009.00.00_B147e_P45e_FH-03_1289266_fZambia_BOZ_5000_kwacha_2009.00.00_B147e_P45e_FH-03_1289266_r
Like B147d, but new date (2009).

Courtesy of Garry Craig.

Paraguay new 5,000-guaraní note (B855a) confirmed


5,000 guaraníes (US$1), 2008.
Like Pick 223, but new date, new signatures, new serial number placement, series E, and wider color-changing windowed security thread. Printer: Giesecke & Devrient.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Egypt new date (13.01.2009) smaller 200-pound note confirmed


200 pounds (US$36.70). Like Pick 68, but dated (in Arabic) 13.01.2009, reduced in size (165 x 73 mm vs. 175 x 80 mm), and horizontal lines added at right and left edges on front.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Egypt new date (12.11.2007) 200-pound note confirmed


200 pounds (US$36.70). Like Pick 68, but dated (in Arabic) 12.11.2007.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Kenya banknotes may exclude portraits

According to a Daily Nation article dated 18 November 2009, Kenya’s coins and notes will not bear the portrait of any individual if the proposals in the new draft constitution of Kenya are adopted. The draft proposes "Notes and coins issued by the Central Bank of Kenya may bear images that depict or symbolise Kenya or an aspect of Kenya but may bear the portrait of any individual." This means that former presidents Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel Moi will be the only personalities to have had portraits on Kenya’s currency.

Kenyans have a month to make their contributions on what they think of the proposals before changes are made to the draft constitution. A referendum is scheduled for early March 2010. If the referendum agrees to adopt the constitution, it will see the Central Bank governor hold office for a term of six years instead of the current four years, and will no longer be eligible for re-appointment.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

Uganda new date (2009) 50,000-shilling note reported

The Bank of Uganda is reported to have issued new 50,000-shilling notes dated 2009.

Courtesy of Richard Miranda.

South Koreans frustrated by 50,000-won notes



According to a Korea Times article dated 11-10-2009, some South Koreans have difficulty distinguishing between the new 50,000-won (US$43.20) note and the old 5,000-won (US$4.30) note due to “their physical similarity” and are calling for the government to change the color of the highest-value banknotes.

The Bank of Korea, however, says no countermeasures are being considered at this time, adding there are several identification devices applied to the bills: The 50,000-won bills are longer than 5,000-won notes by 12 millimeters, and a hologram on their surface is easily noticeable in dark places. "Such criticism is somewhat groundless because U.S. dollar bills are issued all in the same color but not subject to such confusion," a BOK official said on condition of anonymity. "The two bills are different in color, as 50,000-won bills are yellow and 5,000-won bills are reddish-yellow."

It’s hard to imagine how anyone can confuse the two notes since they are of clearly different colors, feature very different portraits, and have easily distinguishable security threads and holographic elements. However, I gave some thought to the BOK official’s defense that the US dollar isn’t subject to confusion. Perhaps it is precisely because the US notes are all the same size and approximate color that the public is forced to pay particular attention to their printed denominations.

In this case, the US benefits from a limited number of denominations, all of which can be expressed by one, two, or three easily distinguished digits: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100. When looking at the 5,000- and 50,000-won notes, you see that it’s not easy to know the denomination at a glance because you must stop to count the zeros. An easy fix to this problem would be to use a space-holder character such as a comma, or make the last three zeros shorter than the other digits so that the 5 and 50 would stand out.

North Korea new 500-won note (B327a) confirmed

North_Korea_DPRK_500_won_2007.00.00_B327a_PNL_510190_fNorth_Korea_DPRK_500_won_2007.00.00_B327a_PNL_510190_r
500 won, 2007. Green and purple. Front: Coat of arms; Kumsusan Memorial Palace (Kim Il Sung Mausoleum) in Pyongyang; mongnan (Seibold’s magnolia) flowers. Back: Suspension bridge over river; olive branch. No security thread. Watermark: Unknown. Printer: Unknown. 155 x 75 mm.

Like B319, but new date and the banner beneath the denomination on the bottom right and left front does not extend to note’s edge.

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

West African States 10,000-franc counterfeit reported

I would like to report a counterfeit note: West African States Pick 314C 10,000 francs dated 2001.

I recently bought two pieces from a dealer at a reasonable price and later came across Burt Burson (an expert on French African notes) selling the same note as a counterfeit on eBay.

I think it is important to announce the fake ones. It will save some collectors from buying fake notes as genuine ones. Even I bought as genuine at first glance. Therefore I wrote this short warning:

COUNTERFEIT WARNING - West African States Pick 314C 10,000 francs dated 2001

  • The most eye catching difference is the silver foil segmented security thread. The actual note has a very shiny one whereas the fake note has a rather dull one.
  • The actual note has more lively and darker colors and the fake one has more pale colors and a lighter pink underprint.
  • Signatures do not match with what should be in 2001. Both sides scans of a genuine note dated 2001 are shown to show that it has a different signature for "Le Président du Conseil des Ministres."
  • Although it is a high quality counterfeit, the paper still feels not genuine with a careful touch.
  • On a genuine note, the digit four in the serial number will be closed at top, but on fake notes the top of the four is open.

REAL
FAKE


REAL
FAKE


REAL
FAKE


REAL FAKE

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.


India to issue 50-rupee note with L inset letter

The Reserve Bank of India is expected to issue a new 50-rupee (US$1.10) banknote with L inset letter in both numbering panels in the Mahatma Gandhi Series -2005 bearing the signature of D. Subbarao, governor.

Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued is similar in all respects to the banknotes in Mahatma Gandhi Series - 2005, with additional / new security features issued on 24 August 2005.


Bangladesh notes to feature Bangabandhu portrait

According to an All Headline News article dated 19 November 2009, Bangladesh Bank plans to use a portrait of founding father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mijubur Rahman on all new currency. The central bank has requested the finance ministry’s approval of its plans. If granted, new banknotes and coins are scheduled for 2010.


Brunei issues new date (2008) 10-dollar note


10 ringgit (US$7.20), 2008. Like Pick 24, but new date. Polymer.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Guatemala new date (17.01.2007) 5-quetzal note confirmed


5 quetzales (US$0.60). 17 DE ENERO DE 2007. Like Pick 110, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Estonia new date (2007) 2- and 10-kroon notes confirmed

On 19 June 2009, the Bank of Estonia issued 2- and 10-kroon banknotes dated 2007. Aside from the new date, the notes are identical to the preceding issues, including the signatures (Andres Lipstok, President; Mart Sõrg, Noukogu Esimees). The new 2-kroon (US$0.20) notes were printed in Germany by Gieseke & Devrient and the 10-kroon (US$0.90) notes in Malta by De La Rue, both without imprints.



Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Colombia new date (17.08.2007) 2,000-peso note confirmed


2,000 pesos (US$1), 17 DE AGOSTO DE 2007. Like P457, but new date.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Colombia new date (14.08.2007) 1,000-peso note confirmed


1,000 pesos (US$0.50), 14 DE AGOSTO DE 2007. Like P456, but new date.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Macau new 50-pataca note confirmed


50 patacas (US$6.25). 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2009.

Front: The Sai Wan Bridge as principal illustration and in the upper left corner, in the vertical, the legend <<50 PATACAS>> in Portuguese; and in the lower right corner the same legend, in vertical, in Chinese characters and in the horizontal, in Portuguese. A see-through pattern shows a registered image on both sides of the note. An electrotype watermark is placed below the watermark of the lotus flower showing the denomination value in Arabic character.

Back: In the lower right corner in the horizontal, the legend <<50 PATACAS>> in Chinese characters and in the upper left corner, in the vertical, the same legend in Portuguese. As principal illustration, on the left the Banco Nacional Ultramarino building and in the right of the principal illustration, the caravel logotype of Banco Nacional Ultramarino. A windowed holographic thread runs vertically through the middle left hand side of the note. Novel serial numbering both for the vertical and horizontal format appears on the reverse side of the note.

Size: 148 mm X 74 mm
Printer - Hong Kong Note Printing Limited - Hong Kong.
Entry into circulation - November 2009.
Quantity Issued: 5 million notes
Signatures: Herculano de Sousa and Rodolfo Vasco Lavrador

Courtesy of Simon Sui, who purchased the note from Yi Chen (IBNS 10210).

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 50-pound note confirmed


50 pounds (US$82.50). Issued 2 November 2009.

Courtesy of Ricardo Castedo.

Guatemala new 100-quetzal note confirmed


Brown, red, and blue. Front: Quetzal bird; flag; bishop Francisco Marroquín; blue-to-green OVI seal. Back: Flower beds and pillars in courtyard at University of San Carlos de Borromeo in Antigua. Holographic windowed security thread. Watermark: Francisco Marroquín and electrotype 100. Printer: Joh. Enschede. 158 x 67 mm. Dated: 12 DE MARZO DE 2008 (12.03.2008). Intro: 06.11.2009.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Djibouti new 10,000-franc note (B204) confirmed

Djibouti_BCD_10000_francs_2009.05.00_B204a_P45_01400073_P.001_f
Djibouti_BCD_10000_francs_2009.05.00_B204a_P45_01400073_P.001_r
Like B106, but now issued by BANQUE CENTRALE DE DJIBOUTI and watermark includes electrotype BCD.

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Scotland new 5- and 10-pound notes confirmed


5 pounds (US$8.25). To be issued 19 November 2009.


10 pounds (US$16.50). To be issued 5 November 2009.

Moldova new date (2009) notes confirmed


5 lei (US$0.45). Like Pick 9, but new date (2009).


10 lei (US$0.90). Like Pick 10, but new date (2009).


200 lei (US$18.20). Like Pick 16, but new date (2009).

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko.

North Korea new 1,000-won note (B328a) confirmed

North_Korea_DPRK_1000_won_2006.00.00_B328a_P45b_061790_fNorth_Korea_DPRK_1000_won_2006.00.00_B328a_P45b_061790_r
1,000 won. Green and light blue. Front: Coat of arms; flowers; Kim Il Sung. Back: Trees; houses (birthplace of Kim Il Sung) in Mangyongdae. No security thread. Watermark: Arch of Triumph. 155 x 75 mm. Dated 2006.

Like B320, but new date and the banner beneath the denomination on the bottom right and left front does not extend to note’s edge.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Morocco new 50-dirham commemorative confirmed

Bank Al-Maghrib issued a 50-dirham (US$6.45) note in mid-October 2009 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the central bank. Apparently 4 million notes will be issued at face value.

This is the first commemorative banknote issued in Morocco. It was designed by Roger Pfund, the Swiss artist who has also designed notes for Switzerland, France, and the European Union.




The front of the 147 x 70 mm green note features portraits of Kings Mohammed VI, Hassan II, Mohammed V. The back depicts the headquarters of Bank Al-Maghrib in Rabat. The speech delivered in 1959 by Mohammed V at the opening of Bank Al Maghrib is microprinted in on the back.

Courtesy of Abdullah Beydoun and Rui Manuel Palhares.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 20-pound note confirmed


On 19 October 2009, Clydesdale Bank introduced a new 20-pound (US$32.60) world heritage banknote featuring Robert the Bruce on the front and the historic mill house New Lanark on the back. Other denominations will gradually enter circulation over the remainder of year, beginning with the £50 note, then the £5 and the £10, with a £100 note coming out in mid-December. Each note will feature a prominant Scottish individual, whilst depicting one of the country’s five world heritage sites on the other side.

Courtesy of Alessio Amato.

Russia to replace 10-ruble note with coin in 2010


On 31 October 2006, the Bank of Russia announced that it intends to replace all 10-ruble (Pick 273, US$0.37) banknotes with coins. “Coins serve longer than banknotes,” explained deputy chairman Georgy Luntovsky. Coins can circulate for 10 to 15 years, while 10- and 50-ruble notes have a lifetime of approximately half a year.

On 22 October 2009, the bank announced that it would stop issuing 10-ruble (US$0.35) banknotes in 2010 because they wear out quickly and are too expensive to produce. The notes will be replaced by a coin.

Courtesy of Mikhail Istomin.

Zambia new date (2009) 50,000-kwacha note (B150e) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_50000_kwacha_2009.00.00_B150e_P48e_JE-03_5693493_fZambia_BOZ_50000_kwacha_2009.00.00_B150e_P48e_JE-03_5693493_r
Like B150d, but new date (2009).

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Paraguay to remove three zeros from guarani

On 21 October 2009, the Banco Central de Paraguay announced it will remove three zeroes from the guarani in 2011 in an attempt to simplify economic transactions. The revised currency will be called the new guarani for a two-year period. The notes will apparently feature the same designs as the current series of notes.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

India new inset letter varieties confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20). 2008. Like Pick 95c, but M inset letter.


20 rupees (US$0.40). 2007. Like Pick 96b, but E inset letter.


100 rupees (US$2.15). 2008. Like Pick 98d, but S inset letter.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Lebanon new date (2008) 10,000-pound note confirmed


10,000 livres (US$6.70). Like Pick 86, but new date (2008).

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Tanzania to introduce new notes by June 2010

According to an article in The Zimbabwean dated 16 October 2009, the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has contracted with two foreign firms to print new banknotes. Governor Beno Ndulu said that the new notes would be in circulation by June 2010 and old notes will remain legal tender.

The country's current notes are printed by the German firm Giesecke & Devrient, but the Swedish company Crane Currency AB will print the new 500, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 shilling notes, while the UK-based De La Rue will print the new 1,000-shilling notes. The designs and security features have not been finalized.

South Africa declares 500-rand note fake


According to an IOL.com article dated 17 October 2009, the South African Reserve Bank has refuted a rumor circulating via email claiming that the bank is about to issue a 500-rand (US$68) note.

Robertina Mbedzi, assistant communications practitioner at the Reserve Bank, said "The bank is currently not planning to issue a R500 note in the future and we are unaware of how this e-mail came about. South Africa has a family of five bank note denominations and the R200 note remains the highest denomination."

Philippines 20-peso UN Year of Microcredit commemorative confirmed


20 pesos (US$0.40). Like Pick 182, but new date (2005) and UN Year of Microcredit 2005 ovpt.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Hong Kong's Standard Chartered Bank new 150-dollar note confirmed

On 9 September 2009, Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) began issuing one million 150-dollar (US$19.35) banknotes to commemorate its 150-year anniversary. The commemorative banknotes is legal tender, but was sold at a premium over face value. A single HK$150 note cost HK$280, a pane of four notes costs HK$1,888, and a full sheet of 35 notes is priced at HK$18,888.

Standard Chartered has also selected 100 notes with special lucky serial numbers for public bidding and another 10,000 pieces for which the public can pick a serial number of their choice. There are three categories of lucky number notes, with minimum bid prices of HK$10,000, HK$6,000 and HK$3,000. The "single self-selected serial number" notes will be offered at HK$888 each by lottery. Net proceeds will go to the bank's community foundation in support of local community projects and charities.

The front of the banknote, designed by Austrian graphic designer Henry Steiner, who has designed banknotes for Standard Chartered since 1975, features a satellite image of Victoria Harbour with the lender's corporate blue and green as the main color tones. The reverse side demonstrates the history of Hong Kong through iconic Images of people from all walks of life taking in the view of the Victoria Harbour from the Peak: a policeman, a mother and her chlld in a traditional back carrier, a bird fancier, a worker, a woman with a parasol, a businessman on his mobile phone, and a school boy pointing at a hawk. These Images demonstrate how the people of Hong Kong have contributed to the city's success through the past 150 years.



Courtesy of Kai Hwong and Thomas Augustsson.


Lebanon new date (2008) 5,000-pound note confirmed


5,000 livres (US$3.35). Like Pick 85, but new date (2008).

Courtesy of Banknoteshop.

Bangladesh new signature variety 100-taka confirmed

100 taka (US$1.45). Like Pick 49, but new date, new signature, and new title on back.

There are now at least three 100-taka note varieties dated 2009. One is signed by Governor Salehuddin Ahmed, and the other two are signed by Governor Atiur Rahman, but the signatures are slightly different (see below).



In addition to the signature change, the text on the back of the note has changed slightly, too. The text on the first note reads Bangabandhu Bridge (named after Sheikh Mujibar Rahman whose official title was Bangabandhu), and the new one reads Jamuna Bridge (named after the river it spans).




Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels and Nazir Rahemtulla.


Jordan new date (2008) 50-dinar note (B234e) confirmed

Jordan_CBJ_50_dinars_2008.00.00_B234e_P38_fJordan_CBJ_50_dinars_2008.00.00_B234e_P38_r
Like B234d, but new date (2008) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Ricardo Castedo.

Australia new date (2008) 10-dollar note confirmed


10 dollars (US$9). Like Pick 58, but new date (20)08 and new signatures.

Courtesy of Kai Hwong.


Bermuda new date (07.05.2007) 10-dollar note confirmed


10 dollars (US$10). Like Pick 52, but new date (7 MAY 2007) and new signatures.

Courtesy of TDS.

Australia new date (2008) 5-dollar note confirmed


5 dollars (US$4.50). Like Pick 57, but new date (20)08 and new signatures.

Courtesy of TDS.


Myanmar new 5,000-kyat note confirmed


On 1 October 2009, Myanmar issued a 5,000-kyat banknote, the largest denomination in the Asian country formerly known as Burma. The undated, unsigned 150 x 70 mm purple note features an elephant on front and buildings on back.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Singapore new 2- and 10-dollar note varieties confirmed


Collectors in Singapore have recently discovered that some of the polymer notes in circulation have small squares beneath the titles on the back vignette. Specifically, the 2-dollar note (Pick 46) has been confirmed both with and without a single square beneath the word EDUCATION, and the 10-dollar note (not listed in SCWPM; shown above) has been confirmed with none, one, and two squares beneath the word SPORTS.

Courtesy of Vincent Tan.

Haiti new date varieties confirmed


10 gourdes (US$0.25). Like Pick 272 but new date (2008) and new signatures (Charles Castel, Philippe W. Lahens, and Marc Hébert Ignace).


50 gourdes (US$1.25). Like Pick 273 but new date (2008) and new signatures.


100 gourdes (US$2.50). Like Pick 275 but new date (2008) and new signatures.


250 gourdes (US$6.30). Like Pick 276 but new date (2007) and new signatures (Raymond Magloire, Philippe W. Lahens, Charles Castel)

Courtesy of Banknoteshop.

Pixel watermark debuts on Mexico 200-peso commemorative


On 23 September 2009, the Bank of Mexico introduced two new commemorative banknotes. The 200-peso paper note celebrates the bicentenial of independence. It is also noteworthy because it's the first note in the world with a new security feature: the Pixel watermark, developed by ArjoWiggins Security.

A new development in the field of multi-tone watermarks, Pixel watermarks consist of patterns of dark dots of varying sizes on light backgrounds to create 3D effects such as the texture on the angel's wing on Mexico's new 200-peso commemorative. According to ArjoWiggins, in the coming months 20 new banknotes will be issued in Asia and Latin America featuring Pixel watermarks.

Courtesy of Nathalie Vast.

Zambia new date (2009) 20,000-kwacha note (B149e) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_20000_kwacha_2009.00.00_B149e_P47e_HH-03_5827489_fZambia_BOZ_20000_kwacha_2009.00.00_B149e_P47e_HH-03_5827489_r
Like B149d, but new date (2009).

Courtesy of David Murcek.

United Arab Emirates new 1,000-dirham note (B231a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_1000_dirhams_2008.00.00_B231a_P33b_001_597836_fUnited_Arab_Emirates_CBA_1000_dirhams_2008.00.00_B231a_P33b_001_597836_r
B231 (P33): 1,000 dirhams (US$272)
Brown. Front: Arabic text; Saker falcon head as registration device; coat of arms; Al Hosn Palace (White Fort) in Abu Dhabi. Back: English text; Saker falcon; Abu Dhabi skyline with Corniche; Saker falcon head. Holographic stripe with denomination. Windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 1000. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 1000 and coffee pot. Printer: (Unknown). 163 x 70 mm. a. ١٤٢٩ (AH1429)/2008. Sig. 3. Prefix 000 - 024.

Courtesy of David Murcek.

Colombia new date (14.11.2006) 2,000-peso note confirmed


2,000 pesos (US$1.05), 14 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2006. Like P457, but new date.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Nigeria three new polymer notes confirmed

On 16 September 2009, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) announced plans to issue 1.9 billion new polymer notes in 5, 10, and 50 naira denominations, worth US$0.03, 0.06, and 0.32, respectively. President Umaru Yar’Adua launched the new notes on 30 September. 1.3 billion note were printed abroad, while the remaining 615 million were printed by the Nigeria Security Printing and Minting.

Governor Lamido Aminu Sanusi said, “The existing denominations of N5, N10, and N50 paper notes remain legal tender and will circulate side by side with the new polymer notes for the next six months. The new N5, N10, and N50 polymer notes have retained their current sizes, designs and other key elements. Only the watermark has been replaced with the transparent window and G-switch which turns from green to gold when the note is tilted."

The move to polymer is intended as a cost-savings measure since polymer notes last longer than paper notes, even though they are initially more expensive to produce.

The 5- and 10-naira notes are signed by the former governor, Chukwuma “Charles” Soludo, while the 50-naira note is signed by the present governor, Sanusi. Both are also signed by Benjamin C. Onyido as DIRECTOR OF CURRENCY AND BRANCH OPERATIONS.







Courtesy of Arigo Avbovbo.

Chile new date (2008) 10,000-peso note (B294x) confirmed


10,000 pesos (US$18). Like Pick 157c, but new date (2008) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Banknoteshop.


Nigeria considering polymer for 500- and 1,000-naira notes

During the 30 September 2009 introduction of the new 5-, 10-, and 50-naira polymer banknotes, the Central Bank of Nigeria said it may eventually issue 500- and 1,000-naira notes printed on polymer, although the focus is now on the lower denominations since they are more widely used than the higher denominations.

Uruguay new date (2008) 50-peso uruguayo note confirmed


50 pesos uruguayos (US$2.35). Like Pick 84, but new date (2008), new series D, two signatures instead of three, and no windowed security thread. The SCWPM has reserved Pick 87 for an expected new issue dated 2006, but that's unlikely to exist and P87 will probably eventually be assigned to this 2008 issue.

Courtesy of Banknoteshop.

Lesotho new date (2009) 50-maloti note confirmed


50 maloti (US$4.55). Like Pick 17, but new date, new signature (Moeketsi Senaoana), the colors are more vibrant, the watermark of the coat of arms now includes the denomination (not electrotype), as well as Cornerstones, and a windowed security thread. Printer: (TDLR).

Courtesy of Ricardo Castedo.

Poland new 20-zloty commemorative confirmed

To commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of the poet Julius Slowacki, the National Bank of Poland issued 80,000 new 20-zloty (US$6.90) notes on 23 September 2009. The notes were issued in a folder at a price of 29-zloty each, which makes these non-circulating numismatic products.

Dated 08 STYCZNIA 2009 (08.01.2009), the front features a portrait of Julius Slowacki and a view of the Krzemieniec chalet in Ukraine where the poet was born. The back of the note depicts the portion of the reproduction of the poem "Sedation" and Sigismund III Vasa at Castle Square in Warsaw, and profiles of flying cranes.

The note is protected by a watermark of the poet's face and a registration device in the form of a pen inkwell. The note was designed by Maciej Kopecki and engraved by Przemyslaw Krajewski.

This is the third commemorative banknote from Poland.


Brown. Front: Quill and inkwell; Krzemieniec chalet in Ukraine; coat of arms; poet Julius Slowacki. Back: Flying cranes brids; statue of Sigismund III Vasa at Castle Square in Warsaw; handwritten poem “Sedation.” Solid security thread with microprinted 20 Zł. Watermark: Julius Slowacki and electrotype denomination. Printer: PWPW S.A. (Polska Wytwórnia Papierów Wartosciowych SA). 138 x 69 mm. Dated 8 STYCZNIA 2009 (08.01.2009). Signatures: Sławomir Skrzypek, PREZES (President); Monika Nowosielska, GŁÓWNY SKARBNIK (Main Cashier). Intro: 23.09.2009.

Courtesy of Leszek Porowski and Krzysztof Czupryński.

Solomon Islands new signature 20-dollar note (B218b) confirmed

Solomon_Islands_CBSI_20_dollars_2009.00.00_B218b_P28_C-3_575483_fSolomon_Islands_CBSI_20_dollars_2009.00.00_B218b_P28_C-3_575483_r
Like B218a, but new signatures (Denton Hehenoro Rarawa, Governor; Shadrach Fanega, Secretary, Finance). Issued 2009.

Courtesy Claudio Marana.

Belize new date (01.09.2007) 2-dollar note (B324c) confirmed

Belize_CBB_2_dollars_2007.09.01_B324c_P66c_DF_085419_fBelize_CBB_2_dollars_2007.09.01_B324c_P66c_DF_085419_r
Like B324b, but new date (1st. SEPTEMBER 2007) and new signatures. Prefix DF.

Nepal new 500-rupee note confirmed


500 rupees (US$6.50)
Like Pick 65, but without rhododendron printed atop watermark (unknown; presumably not King Gyanendra), and new signature (Deependra Bahadur Chhettri). Introduced 20.09.2009. Reportedly printed in France.

A new 1,000-rupee note is expected in December. Presumably it will be like Pick 66, but again without the rhododendron printed atop watermark.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Shankar Shrestha.

Mexico introduces two new commemorative notes

In a press release dated 23 September 2009, the Bank of Mexico announced the immediate introduction of two new commemorative banknotes: a paper one to celebrate the bicentennial of independence, and a polymer one to celebrate the centennial of the Mexican Revolution. Each will be limited to 50 million pieces and these notes will not replace the currently circulating notes of the same denominations.

20,000 sets of notes with matching serial numbers were sold in a special folder. Anyone with information on the original cost of a set or the ability to scan the folder is encouraged to share that info and the images.


100 pesos (US$7.50)
Commemorates the Mexcian Revolution. Front: Ear of corn; camp follower (Adelita); locomotive that carried revolutionary troops in 1910; corn field; map. Back: Corn field; soldiers in David Alfaro Siqueiros' mural "Del Porfirismo a la Revolución;" ear of corn. Watermark: Adelita. Series A. Dated 20 NOV. 2007. 134 x 66 mm. Polymer.

  • Prefix A Signatures: Guillermo Ortiz Martinez and Raul Valdes Ramons
  • Prefix B Signatures: Roberto Del Cueto Legaspi and Raul Valdes Ramons:

  • Prefix C Signatures: Everardo Elizondo Almaguer and Raul Valdes Ramons
  • Prefix D Signatures: Jose Julian Sidaoui Dib and Raul Valdes Ramons
  • Prefix E Signatures: Jesus Marcos Yacaman and Raul Valdes Ramons:



200 pesos (US$15)
Commemorates Mexican Independence. Front (vertical): Church bell in OVI; map; Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla with a banner, from Jesus Enrique Emilio de la Helguera Evans' painting "Don Miguel Hidalgo." Back (vertical): Angel of Independence, on Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City; stylized bright red cap (symbol of freedom). Windowed security thread. Watermark: Angel of Independence with electrotype 200. 141 x 66 mm.

Signature information courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Trans-Dniester commemorative 10-ruble note confirmed


On 18 August 2009, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced a 10-ruble banknote commemorating 15 years of national currency. 1,000 copies of the note were packaged in a special folder. All have sold out at US$50 each.

The note is a completely new design, featuring the date (2009) and a portrait of Alexander Suvorov and the bank initials on front. The watermark is of Alexander Suvorov with an electrotype ПРБ. The back depicts the headquarters building of the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank and the text (in Russian) “FIFTEEN YEARS OF NATIONAL CURRENCY.”

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko and Chris Kessler (Trans-Dniester Republican Bank).

New Zealand new date (2007) 50-dollar note confirmed


50 dollars (US$36)
Like Pick 188, but new date (2007).

Courtesy of Scott de Young.

Tunisia new 50-dinar note confirmed


On 25 July 2009, the Central Bank of Tunisia introduced a new 50-dinar (US$37.65) note.

Green and purple. Front: La Cite de la Culture (The City of Culture) building; scholar Ibn Rachiq. Back: Rades-La Goulette suspension bridge over canal; planes and jetways at Zine El Abidine Ben Ali Enfidha Airport terminal. Holographic stripe. Windowed security thread with demetalized 50 DINARS BCT. Watermark: Ibn Rachiq and electrotype 50. Printer: Unknown. 167 x 80 mm. Dated 2008.11.07.
Signed by Taoufik Baccar, governor; and Hedi Zar, vice-governor.

Courtesy of Cleophas Elmakias Schockemohle, Jan Stuller, and TDS.

Pakistan new date (2009) 5-rupee note (B230b) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_5_rupees_2009.00.00_B230b_P53b_CP_3691000_fPakistan_SBP_5_rupees_2009.00.00_B230b_P53b_CP_3691000_r
Like B230a, but new date (2009) and new signature (Syed Salim Raza). Introduced 15 May 2009.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Hungary to replace 200-forint note with coin on 15.11.2009

On 15 June 2009, Magyar Nemzeti Bank issued a new 200-forint (US$1) coin which will replace the banknote of the same denomination beginning 15 November 2009, after which time the notes will remain redeemable for 20 years.

India to issue new 500-rupee note with E inset letter

According to a 17 September 2009 press release, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will soon issue a 500-rupee (US$10.40) note with E inset letter and signature of D. Subbarao, governor.

Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued now is similar in all respects to the banknotes in Mahatma Gandhi Series - 2005, with additional/ new security features issued on 21 October 2005.

All banknotes in the denomination of Rs 500 in Mahatma Gandhi series issued by RBI from the year 2000 will continue to be legal tender.



Iran new 20,000-rial note confirmed


20,000 rials (US$2).
Front like Pick 148, but with new signature combination of Bahmani and Hosseini. Back now depicts Masjid-ul Aqsa (Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa) in Jerusalem.

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares, Abdullah Beydoun, and Omer Yalcinkaya.

Iran new signature 2,000-rial note confirmed


2,000 rials (US$0.20). Like Pick 144, but new signatures.

I originally reported the signature combo as Mazaheri - Bahmani, basing my info on the signature table at Peter Symes’ excellent site, Islamicbanknotes.com. However, I have recently been contacted by Ali Nasseri who says:

The Islamicbanknotes.com has the signature of Hosseini - Bahmani that is correct, but has a mistake too!

Hosseini - Bahmani notes (2000, 5000, 20000 and 50000 Rials) put into circulation after "Danseh Jafari - Mazaheri - Sign 34" notes (2000, 20000 and 50000) and everybody has thought that they are sign 35, even me.

But, because Mr. Mazaheri was the preident of CBI, few month after Mr. Hosseini and before Mr. Bahmani, so the new 2000 Rls is printed before of all "Hosseini - Bahmani" notes (2000, 5000, 20000 and 50000 Rials), so, the new signature "Hosseini - Mazaheri" is printed former than "Hosseini - Bahmani".

I should tell frankly that the previous numeration is mistake and most rewrite according below:
Signature 34: "Danseh Jafari - Mazaheri" (As previous)
Signature 35: "Hosseini - Mazaheri" (new claim)
Signature 36: "Hosseini - Bahmani" (incorrect sign. 35)

Plus, you mentioned "Mazaheri - Bahmani" in your website. Those are both CBI's presidents. Where is the minister of finance's signature??? It is imposible that both of signatures belong to Central Bank presidents.

I corrected the signatures list and you can see them here.

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares and Ali Nasseri.

United Arab Emirates new date (2008) 500-dirham note (B224c) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_500_dirhams_2008.00.00_B224c_P32b_512_519461_fUnited_Arab_Emirates_CBA_500_dirhams_2008.00.00_B224c_P32b_512_519461_r
Like B224b, but new date (١٤٢٩/2008). Prefix 512 - 862.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn and Ricardo Castedo.

Botswana's new 100-pula note (B127) defective

Botswana_BOB_100_pula_2009.00.00_B127a_P33_AA_1561996_fBotswana_BOB_100_pula_2009.00.00_B127a_P33_AA_1561996_r
On 3 September 2009, the Bank of Botswana acknowledged that a small number of the new 100-pula notes (B127a) have been issued with a thin plastic layer over the holographic stripe. The plastic, which should have been removed by the printer during manufacturing, can be peeled off the note, removing part of the word Botswana in the process. The affected banknotes remain legal tender.

Bermuda new date (07.05.2007) notes confirmed


2 dollars (US$2). Like Pick 50, but new date (7 MAY 2007) and new signatures.

50 dollars (US$50), 7 MAY 2007. Like P54, but new date and new signatures (Alan F. Richardson, CHAIRMAN; Robert Steinhoff, DIRECTOR).

Both the 2- and 50-dollar notes have been seen with this new date. The Bermuda Monetary Authority recently confirmed that 10- and 20-dollar notes have also been issued dated 7 MAY 2007. If anyone has these denominations with this date, please send scans so that I can post them.

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Bangladesh 20-taka error confirmed


While editing the Bangladesh chapter of my new catalog of world notes, Bill Stubkjaer and I confirmed that his example of the Bangladesh 20-taka note of 1979 (Pick 22) has an error in the printed solid security thread. Specifically, the words BANGLADESH BANK are repeated on the thread, but the Bs are backwords and BANK is spelled with an X, not a K:

I'd appreciate it if collectors would examine their own examples of this note and report if varieties exist with the correct spelling. Please post comments with your findings either way.


Indonesia issues new 2,000-rupiah note


On 9 July 2009, Bank Indonesia introduced a brand new 2,000-rupiah (US$0.20) note which joins the currently circulating denominations of 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 rupiah. Bank Indonesia states that the banknote is fulfilling a need among the Indonesian population to have a value between the much-used values of 1,000 and 5,000 rupiah.

The mainly gray-colored banknote measures 141 x 65 and features a portrait of Prince Antasari on the front. He is a national hero from Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan. At the back side is a drawing of a traditional Dayak dance. The display of a national hero is a continuation of the current set of banknotes already in circulation, which all feature national
Indonesian heroes. The banknote has a watermark of the prince, a solid security thread with printed BI 2000, and microprinting.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn and Ricardo Castedo.

Botswana issues new note series

The Bank of Botswana introduced a new family of banknotes on 21 August 2009. The notes officially enter circulation 23 August, though they may not be available to the public until 24 August. The introduction of the new banknotes follows a comprehensive review of the current banknotes in order to bring them in line with current trends. In the development of the new banknotes, the Bank has used the latest technology in banknote design that incorporates the latest security features.

In addition to the current denomination structure comprising P10, P20, P50 and P100, the new P200 banknote was introduced. All of the notes are printed by TDLR and carry the printer's imprint and the date 2009 on the back. The features of the new banknotes are as follows:


P10 Banknote
The P10 banknote retains the green colour, albeit toned down and the rampant zebra watermark. The portrait of former President Mogae is replaced by that of His Excellency President Lt General Seretse Khama Ian Khama. On the reverse side, the picture of the national assembly building is retained.


P20 Banknote
The P20 banknote retains the current red colour, albeit toned down and the rampant zebra watermark. The portrait of the composer of the national anthem, Dr K T Motsete, is retained. Similarly, the picture of the mining installation on the reverse side is retained.


P50 Banknote
The banknote retains the current brown colour and the portrait of Sir Seretse Khama as the founding President. On the reverse side, the Okavango Delta swamps, the man on a boat and the fish eagle are retained. The rampant zebra watermark is also retained.


P100 Banknote
The P100 banknote retains the blue colour, the rampant zebra watermark and the portrait of the three chiefs. On the reverse side, the open pit diamond mine and the lady examining a diamond are retained; some artwork has been introduced for a more modern appearance.


P200 Banknote
The new P200 banknote is purple in colour with the rampant zebra watermark. The portrait in the front of the banknote is an art work of a woman teaching pupils. The concept is intended to underscore the contribution of women in the country’s development through education; it can also be interpreted in other ways, such as the important social role played by mothers in nation building (Go ruta mosadi ke go ruta setshaba). On the reverse side, there is a picture of a herd of zebras at a waterhole.

It is important that members of the public familiarise themselves with the new banknote security features when they (banknotes) are issued. The public is also requested to be vigilant in ensuring that only genuine banknotes are in circulation or in their possession at all times.

The existing banknotes will be withdrawn from circulation when the new banknotes are introduced. The public will be required to exchange what would be the old banknotes for equivalent value of new banknotes at designated places, such as commercial banks, Botswana Savings Bank outlets and Botswana Building Society branches and offices countrywide over a period of three months. After the three months period, what will then be old banknotes will be exchanged for new ones only at the Bank of Botswana banking halls in Gaborone and Francistown, for a period of five years to December 31, 2014. After December 31, 2014, all old banknotes will be demonetised and cease to be legal tender.

Courtesy of Ny Andry Ranaivosolo.

Denmark new date (2007) 50- and 200-kroner notes confirmed


50 kroner (US$9.60). Like Pick 60, but new date (20)07 and new signatures.


200 kroner (US$38.45). Like Pick 62, but new date (20)07 and new signatures.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Belize new date (01.09.2007) 10-dollar note (B326c) confirmed

Belize_CBB_10_dollars_2007.09.01_B326c_P68c_DE_519090_fBelize_CBB_10_dollars_2007.09.01_B326c_P68c_DE_519090_r
Like B326b, but new date (1st SEPTEMBER 2007) and new signatures. Prefix DE.

Uzbekistan unissued 25-som note dated 1994 confirmed

The following 25-som note from Uzbekistan is dated 1994 and depicts the Kazi-Zadé Rumi mausoleum in the Shakhi-Zinda necropolis in Samarkand, which also appears on the issued note of the same denomination (B207). However, the note with the specimen serial number of AB1234567 is printed on smaller (120 x 62 mm versus 144 x 68 mm) paper than the issued note. The paper has the same star pattern watermark and solid security thread as the 1- and 3-som notes (B203, B204).

This appears to be an unissued design, but anyone with additional information is encouraged to share. I’m especially interested to learn if there are other unadopted designs for this series of notes.





Courtesy of Peter Kelly.

Bangladesh new 500-taka note confirmed


500 taka (US$7.30). Like P38, but new date (2009), new signature Atiur Rahman, Governor, and with a monochrome (not two-tone) denomination in the upper left front.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Jean-Michel Engels.


India new date (2009) 10-rupee note without inset letter confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20), 2009. Like P95, but new date (2009), and new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2009) 20-rupee note with E inset letter confirmed


20 rupees (US$0.40), 2009. Like P96, but new date (2009), new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and E inset letter.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2009) 50-rupee note without inset letter confirmed


50 rupees (US$1.00), 2009. Like P97, but new date (2009), and new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2009) 500-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


500 rupees (US$10.30), 2009. Like P99, but new date (2009), new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

India new date (2009) 1,000-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


1,000 rupees (US$20.55), 2009. Like P100, but new date (2009), new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and R inset letter.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Armenia issues first ever 100,000-dram note

On 24 August 2009, the Central Bank of Armenia introduced a new 100,000-dram (US$264) note, now the largest denomination in this Eurasian nation.


Front: Royal flag depicting Jesus Christ; King Abgar V of Edessa; 1st-century regional map; crown; ancient coin. Back: Castles; disciple Thaddeus handing canvas of royal flag to King Abgar V; river. Kinegram foil stripe. Solid security thread and Cleartext windowed security thread with demetalized AMD 100000. Watermark: King Abgar V; electrotype 10000 and cross of king’s crown. Printer: (TDLR).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Armen Hovsepian.

Mexico new date (28.04.2008) 50-peso note confirmed


50 pesos (US$4.55), 28 ABR. 2008. Like Pick 122b, but Series J, new date, and new signatures (Jose Julian Sidaoui Dib and Raul Valdes Ramons). Polymer.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Saint Helena scans needed for catalog

I am working on a new catalog of world notes and I need all the help I can get. If you have any of the notes listed below, please email 300-dpi, 100% actual size, 24-bit color scans of the front and back of these notes, saved as uncompressed JPEG, BMP, or TIFF. Please download and follow these detailed scanning instructions.

I am looking for 300-dpi images of the following banknotes of St. Helena:

Pick 1
Pick 2
Pick 3
Pick 4

As a contributor, you will receive the satisfaction of taking part in creating something of excellence, your note will be immortalized as the plate note for the catalog, plus your name will appear in the Acknowledgements along with your email address or URL, if you wish.

Thanks in advance for everyone's cooperation!

Philippines new date (2008 A) 20-peso note confirmed


20 pisos (US$0.40). Like Pick 182i, but date now has suffix (2008 A).

Courtesy of Rodney Hall.

Burundi new smaller 500- and 1,000-franc notes confirmed

La Banque de la République du Burundi has introduced new 500- (US$0.40) and 1,000-franc (US$0.80) notes, both dated 01-05-09 and bearing the same signature combinations. The designs are the same as Pick 38 and Pick 39, respectively, but the sizes have been reduced to 132 x 67 mm and 137 x 69 mm.





Courtesy of Richard Miranda and Rui Manuel Palhares.

Denmark new 50-kroner note confirmed

On 11 August 2009, Danmarks Nationalbank issued a new 50-kroner (US$9.50) note, the first in a new Danish series intended to make it even more difficult to counterfeit or copy genuine banknotes. Among the new security features is Crane’s windowed Motion thread on the back, which was first used by Sweden and is now incorporated in Mexico’s high-denomination notes. Another feature is a new, sophisticated hologram on the front that reflects light in different colors. The new banknotes will also have the traditional security features such as a watermark with electrotype 50, a solid security thread, and Omron rings.

The theme of the new banknotes is Danish bridges and the surrounding landscapes, or details from these landscapes. The artist Karin Birgitte Lund has chosen to interpret this theme in two ways: bridges as links between various parts of Denmark and as links between the past and the present. The present is represented by the bridges, the past by five distinctive prehistoric objects found near the bridges.

The front of the 50-kroner note depicts the Sallingsund Bridge. The back features a Skarpsalling vessel in a field and a map at right.



Courtesy of Alessio Amato and Paul D. Walters.


Bangladesh new date (2009) 100-taka note confirmed


100 taka (US$1.45). Like Pick 49, but new date (2009) and G9 signature of Salehuddin Ahmed.

Courtesy of Mohammed J. Islam.


India new date (2009) 500-rupee note without inset letter confirmed


500 rupees (US$9.65), 2009. Like P93, but new date, new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008), and no inset letter.

Courtesy of Dr. Manjunath P. Iyer.

Malaysia issues new 50-ringgint note

This 50-ringgit note is like the preceding commemorative issue of 2007, but without the 50th anniversary logo and RM 1957-2007 text on the back. Furthermore, the windowed thread is color-shifting and wider, the governor’s signature is larger, and the numeral 50 is printed in two-color fluorescent ink on the back.


B149 (PNL): 50 ringgit (US$14.25)
Green-blue. Front: National flower hibiscus; songket weaving patterns; Tuanku Abdul Rahman. Back: Oil palm trees; microbiology technology; Malaysia’s first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj declaring independence. Holographic stripe. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BNM RM50. Watermark: Rahman with electrotype 50. Printer: (G&D). 145 x 69 mm. No date. Signature 6. Intro: 15.07.2009. Replacement notes: Prefix ZB.

Courtesy of Kai Hwong.

Tunisia new 5-dinar note confirmed



On 22 June 2009, the Central Bank of Tunisia introduced a new 5-dinar (US$3.70) note. The note is similar to Pick 86, but with new date (2008), new signatures, vertical serial number at right, windowed security thread, Omron rings, more durable paper, elements for the sight-impaired, UV printing, electrotype 5 watermark and Cornerstones. Printed by TDLR without imprint.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Mauritania unissued 100-ouguiya note (B108s) confirmed


This note dated 28.11.1975 is a recently-discovered unissued 100-ouguiya specimen, printed by TDLR without imprint, but this specimen bears the TDLR oval overprints in opposing corners on front and back.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Philippines considers adding Cory to 500-peso note

Following the 1 August 2009 death of former president Corazon “Cory” Aquino, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is considering adding her portrait to the 500-piso (US$10.50) note which has featured a portrait of her husband and former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. since 20 August 1987. If approved, the new note would be available in the last quarter of 2010.

Guatemala new date (2007) notes confirmed


10 quetzales (US$1.20). Like P111, but new date (11 DE ENERO DE 2007) and new signatures.

20 quetzales (US$2.40). Like P112, but new date (24 DE ENERO DE 2007) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Kai Hwong.

Georgia new date (2008) 100-lari note confirmed


100 lari (US$60). Like Pick 74, but new date (2008) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Peter Kelly.

Bangladesh new date (2009) 100-taka note confirmed


100 taka (US$1.45). Like Pick 49, but new date (2009) and new signature of Atiur Rahman, who took over as governor on 01.05.2009.

Courtesy of Mirsad Delic.


Bolivia considering new note issue in 2011-2012

The president of Bolivia, Evo Morales, has suggested that Banco Central de Bolivia print banknotes with images of indigenous heroes, coca, and archaeological sites in the South American country, as part of its policy of "decolonization." Among those proposed to be depicted on the new notes are Bartolina Sisa and Tupac Katari, heroes who rose against the Spanish colony in the 18th century. The proposal also suggests depicting natural sites, such as mountains of Bolivia, that are sacred to indigenous peoples. If the bank adopts the proposals, new notes could be issued as early as 2011-2012.

Laos withdraws new 1,000-kip note


I’ve received confirmation from the Bank of the Lao PDR that in November it began withdrawing the 1,000-kip (US$0.10) note which it had introduced just this past October. The bank representative stated only that it was done at “the government’s discretion,” because the note depicts three actual people based upon photographs, not an artist’s rendering of representative women. This low-cost note is not likely to become a modern rarity, but you may want to pick one up for your collection while supplies last and prices are low.

Tanzania new signature 2,000-shilling note confirmed


2,000 shillings (US$1.50). Like Pick 37, but new signatures opf the minister for Finance and Economic Affairs, Mustafa Mkulo, and Governor Benno Ndulu.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Lebanon new date (2008) 1,000-pound note confirmed


1,000 livres (US$0.65). Like Pick 84, but new date (2008).
 
Courtesy of Rui Palhares.

Lesotho new date (2009) 10-maloti note confirmed


10 maloti (US$1.55), 2009. Like Pick 15, but new date (2009), new signature (E. M. Matekane, GOVERNOR), and Cornerstone watermarks.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Pakistan new date (2008) 10-rupee note (B231c) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_10_rupees_2008.00.00_B231c_P45_GK_5932395_fPakistan_SBP_10_rupees_2008.00.00_B231c_P45_GK_5932395_r
Like B231b, but new date (2008).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Mongolia new date (2008) 50-tögrög note (B421b) confirmed

Mongolia_MB_50_togrog_2008.00.00_B421b_P64_AJ_1338928_fMongolia_MB_50_togrog_2008.00.00_B421b_P64_AJ_1338928_r
Like B421a, but new date (2008) and new signature.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

New Hebrides new signature variety confirmed


500 francs. Like Pick 19, but new signature variety of Yves Roland-Billecart and Marcel Theron, which would seem to come between signatures 3 and 4. This combo has also been confirmed for the 1,000-franc note. If anyone has it on the 100-franc note, please send scans.

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Burma 1948 100-rupee remainder confirmed


This 100-rupee remainder note from Burma has recently been reported. It is dated 1st January 1948 and looks identical to Pick 37, but is without serial numbers. Please contact me if you have additional information about this note or other unlisted remainders from Burma so that I can include them in my catalog.

Courtesy of Rodney Hall.



Mexico new date (28.04.2008) 100-peso note confirmed


100 pesos (US$7.50). Like Pick 118, but new date (28 ABR. 2008) and new signatures (Governor, Guillermo Ortíz Martínez; Chief Cashier, Raul Valdes Ramos).

Courtesy of Ricardo Ramirez Gonzalez.

Myanmar to allow exchanging of worn notes

According to a 27 July 2009 article in The New Light of Myanmar, the official English-language newspaper of the Asian country formerly known as Burma, old banknotes “can be exchanged for new ones provided that the note is in specified condition at notes changing counter of Central Bank of Myanmar at No (198/ 199) at the corner of Bo Sun Pak Street and Strand Road and respective branches of Myanma Economic Bank. Arrangements have been made for exchange of old notes for new ones, ranging from K 10 to K 200 notes.”

This is a rather curious announcement as most central banks cull worn notes from circulation as a matter of course. It does not appear that Myanmar is introducing new designs, even though its note family is overdue for a change; Interpol recommends central banks modify security features every seven years or so. The last time Myanmar changed its notes was in 2004, when the 500- and 1,000-kyat notes were reduced in size. All other denominations have remained unchanged since the mid-1990s.

Pakistan new date (2008) 20-rupee note (B233b) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_20_rupees_2008.00.00_B233b_P55a_AD_4466022_fPakistan_SBP_20_rupees_2008.00.00_B233b_P55a_AD_4466022_r
Like B233a, but new date (2008).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Belize new sig/date (01.02.2009) 50-dollar note (B328c) confirmed

Belize_CBB_50_dollars_2009.02.01_B328c_P70c_DD_646715_fBelize_CBB_50_dollars_2009.02.01_B328c_P70c_DD_646715_r
Like B328b, but new date (1st FEBRUARY 2009) and new signatures. Prefix DD.

Philippines issues commemorative notes

On 9 July 2009, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) introduced 12 million banknotes with an overprint commemorating 60 years of central banking. The overprint appears on the watermark area on all six circulating denominations: 20-, 50-; 100-; 200-; 500-, and 1,000-piso.















Scotland green 1968 1-pound note reported

Collector Kevin Forbes has reported an interesting Bank of Scotland note dated 17th JULY 1968 (Pick 109a) with serial number prefix A/1 which is predominantly green in color as opposed to the “correct” color ochre as listed in the SCWPM, seen on the same notes with serial number prefix A/3 below. Both notes are scanned on the same equipment using the same settings, so the color variance as shown is true. The question is whether this is a unique error note, or if the bank subtly changed the color of this denomination over time to distinguish it from the green 5-pound note of the same series. Anyone who collects Scotland is encouraged to check their notes for examples close to the A/1 0250641 serial number to determine if there are other notes that exhibit this color scheme. If anyone has an explanation, please share your theories by posting a comment.





Courtesy of Kevin Forbes.

Iran issues new 5,000-rial note featuring Omid satellite


On 19 July 2009, the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran introduced a new 5,000-rial (US$0.50) banknote with images of Omid, Iran’s first domestically-produced research and telecommunications satellite, which was launched into space on February 3. "In order to commemorate its achievements in space sciences the government has given permission to the central bank to use pictures of the Omid satellite and its rocket launcher on both banknotes and coins," the Abrar newspaper said.

The new undated note measures 154 x 75 mm and features a portrait of Imam Khomeini on front and the Omid satellite and earth on back. The watermark is of Khomeini, with a 0.5-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized denomination in Persian and Latin.

Courtesy of Ali Nasseri.

Canada 10-dollar error notes reported

Some Canadian 10-dollar notes printed in 2007 with the Jenkins-Dodge signature combination were printed on paper intended for 20-dollar notes. They therefore have Queen Elizabeth's portrait and the number 20 as the watermark, a security thread with demetalized "Canada 20", and the holographic stripe with the number 20. There are at least three ranges of the error notes with prefixes BTT and BTU. Six notes have been confirmed so far, though there could be many more notes in circulation.

For more information, please visit Canadian Paper Money.



Maldives new date (1998) 10-rufiyaa variety confirmed


The SCWPM lists two date varieties for the 10-rufiyaa from Maldives (Pick 19): 1998 and 2006. As it turns out, there are actually two varieties dated 1998. The difference is that the first variety has the printer imprint of DE LA RUE at bottom center on back, whereas the second variety is without the imprint, as is the 2006 note. The transition from with to without imprint appears to take place between serial number prefixes C and D, although this has not been confirmed.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Maldives new date (2000) 5-rufiyaa variety confirmed


The SCWPM lists three date varieties for the 5-rufiyaa from Maldives (Pick 18): 1998, 2000, and 2006. As it turns out, there are actually two varieties dated 2000. The difference is that the first variety has the printer imprint of DE LA RUE at bottom center on back, as does the 1998 note, whereas the second variety is without the imprint, as is the 2006 note. The transition from with to without imprint appears to take place between serial number prefixes E and F, although this has not been confirmed.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Guyana new signature variety confirmed


This 20-dollar note (Pick 30) from Guyana shows Lawrence Williams signing as GOVERNOR (ag) on a note with prefix B/57, followed by a prefix B/64 note with the title as GOVERNOR. As far as I know, the Williams/Kowlessar signature combination appears only on the $20, $100, and $1,000 notes, although the GOVERNOR (ag) title has been confirmed on the $20 only. If anyone can provide scans of other notes with this signature combination, please do so.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

United Arab Emirates new date (2008) 100-dirham note (B229a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_100_dirhams_2008.00.00_B229a_P30d_006_444060_fUnited_Arab_Emirates_CBA_100_dirhams_2008.00.00_B229a_P30d_006_444060_r
B229 (P30d): 100 dirhams (US$27)
Red. Front: Arabic text; coat of arms; Fahidi Fort in Dubai with silver foil stamp of castle tower. Back: English text; Saker falcon; Trade Centre Tower in Dubai. Windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 100. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 100 and coffee pot. Printer: (Unknown). 155 x 66 mm. a. ١٤٢٩ (AH1429)/2008. Sig. 3. Prefix 000 - 083.

Courtesy of Peter Symes.

Albania issues revised 200-lek note



On 20 July 2009, the Bank of Albania issued a revised 200-lek (US$2.20) note dated 2007 (in small type at right center on back) and printed by TDLR without imprint. Like Pick 67, but It has Cornerstone watermarks and new signatures.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Kyrgyzstan issues new notes on 1 July 2009

New 20-, 50-, and 100-som banknotes were introduced by the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic on 1 July 2009.

According to the assistant president of the Kyrgyz National Bank, Zair Chokoev, “We retained the style of our banknotes but tried to make them more convenient. Notes of the third series were too large and inconvenient to use. And we decided to reduce their size,” Zair Chokoev said. The new fourth series will slowly replace the notes of the third series.


B123 (PNL): 20 som (US$0.45)
Red. Front: Writer, poet, and educator Togolok Moldo. Back: Tash-Rabat. Windowed security thread with demetalized 20 COM. Watermark: Togolok Moldo. Printer: (OT). 120 x 58 mm. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.07.2009.


B124 (PNL): 50 som (US$1.15)
Orange. Front: Czarina Kurmanjan datka (Alai Tsaritsa). Back: 11th-century Uzgen architectural complex with minaret and mausoleum. Windowed security thread with demetalized 50 COM. Watermark: Kurmanjan datka. Printer: (OT). 126 x 61 mm. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.07.2009.


B125 (PNL): 100 som (US$2.30)
Blue. Front: Toktogul Satylganov. Back: Toktogul hydroelectric power station. Windowed security thread with demetalized 100 COM. Watermark: Toktogul Satylganov with electrotype 100. Printer: (OT). 132 x 63 mm. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.07.2009.

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko.

China denies rumors of 500-yuan note


The Fuzhou Branch of the People’s Bank of China denied rumors that a new 500-yuan (US$73.20) note will be released by November 2009. Fueled by fears of inflation, rumors of the new banknote have been floating around since 2006. Wei Guoqi, a senior official at the People’s Bank of China, declared “it's not true,” and stated that no formal notice about the introduction of any new banknotes had been received. Images of the purported new note bearing a portrait of Deng Xiaoping are considered a hoax.



Clydesdale Bank of Scotland new date (2006) 50-pound note confirmed


50 pounds (US$82.10)
Like Pick 225, but new date (9th JANUARY 2006) and new signature (David Thorburn).

Courtesy of Kai Hwong.

Nigeria new date (2009) notes confirmed

The following notes have been confirmed dated 2009 and signed by Chukwuma “Charles” Soludo, GOVERNOR and Ben Onyido, DIRECTOR OF CURRENCY AND BRANCH OPERATIONS. If anyone has other denominations dated 2009, please send scans of same so that I can share them with others.

Incidentally, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Aminu Sanusi formally took over as the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria on 4 June 2009. He assumes the post from Ernest Ebi, the acting governor. As such, it’s reasonable to expect that new signature varieties will be forthcoming.


10 naira (US$0.05)
Like Pick 33, but new date (2009).


20 naira (US$0.15)
Like Pick 34, but new date (2009).


100 naira (US$0.65)
Like Pick 28, but new date (2009).


500 naira (US$3.60)
Like Pick 30, but new date (2009).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn and Arigo Avbovbo.

South Africa central bank governor to step down

The governor of the South African Reserve Bank, Tito Mboweni, is scheduled to step down in November. Mboweni, the first black man in the formerly racially segregated South Africa to have his signature on a South African banknote, is to be replaced by Gill Marcus, chairwoman of the South African commercial bank Absa. Mboweni has held the post of governor since 1999. His departure clears the way for a new signature variety for South Africa.

Burundi new variety 1968 50-franc note confirmed


This 50-franc note is like Pick 22a, dated 15.5.1968, but the signature titles are L’ADMINISTRATEUR and LE PRESIDENT. According to the SCWPM, this date should have titles as LE VICE-PRESIDENT and LE PRESIDENT. If anyone has this note with the titles as described in the SCWPM, please send scans to confirm.

Courtesy of Christos.

Albania issues revised 5,000-lek note



On 15 May 2009, the Bank of Albania issued a revised 5,000-lek (US$55) note dated 2007 (in small type at lower right on back) and printed by TDLR without imprint. It has Cornerstone watermarks, a holographic patch, demetalized windowed security thread, and new signatures.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger and Michael Reissner.

India to issue 100-rupee note with F inset letter

The Reserve Bank of India will soon introduce a 100-rupee (US$2.05) note with F inset letter in both numbering panels in the Mahatma Gandhi Series.

Additional information and images requested.

Jordan new sig/date (2007) 10-dinar note (B232b) confirmed

Jordan_CBJ_10_dinars_2007.00.00_B232b_P36_fJordan_CBJ_10_dinars_2007.00.00_B232b_P36_r
Like B232a, but new date (2007) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Georgia 2002 10-lari error note confirmed


The 10-lari note dated 2002 (Pick 71) has been discovered to have an error in the spelling of the denomination on the back. Specifically, it was incorrectly spelled “Fen Lari” (middle image) instead of “Ten Lari” (bottom image). This mistake was corrected in later printings also dated 2002.

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko and Thomas Augustsson.

Malaysia issues revised 50-ringgit note



On 15 July .2009, Bank Negara Malaysia introduced a new design 50-ringgit (US$14) banknote. This new design of RM50 banknote is the first denomination of the Fourth Series of Malaysian currency notes which will be replacing the existing series in stages.The earlier new design of RM50 banknote (images below) was issued in December 2007 to commemorate Malaysia's 50th Anniversary of Independence. This current series no longer has the logo of the country's golden jubilee celebrations at upper right on back and has the following enhanced security features:

  • The Colour Shifting Security Thread which replaces the existing security thread and is embedded in the paper. The thread appears on the reverse side of the note as coloured intermittent lines. When held against light, it is seen as a continuous dark coloured line and the repeated text of BNM RM50 can be read. When the note is tilted, the colour of the thread changes from red to green and vice versa. Under ultra-violet light, the repeated text of BNM RM50 will fluoresce yellow and the thread is seen as a continuous fluorescent yellow line when the banknote is viewed from the obverse.
  • The Two-Coloured Fluorescent Elements is an additional invisible printed feature on the reverse of the note. Under ultra-violet light, a complex design two-colour numeral 50 will fluoresce.
  • The existing security features which are designed for public verification remains as follows:
  • The Watermark Portrait can be recognised by tints that are lighter or darker than the surrounding paper. This watermark portrait which has a three-dimensional effect appears without sharp outlines. At the base of the watermark, the numeral 50 is clearly visible.
  • Perfect See-Through Register features the songket design on the obverse and reverse of the banknote when it is held against the light.
  • Invisible Fluorescent Elements of the background on the obverse and reverse of the banknote which fluoresces in different colours under ultra-violet light.
  • Micro-Letterings of "BNM RM50" which can be viewed under a magnifying glass.
  • Holographic Stripe features the numeral 50 and hibiscus flower.
  • Multicolor Latent Image where the numeral 50 is visible when the banknote is tilted slightly and changes colour when it is rotated.
  • Anti-Scanner feature in which certain design cannot be captured by scanning machines.
  • Braille Feature for the visually impaired.

Courtesy of Hon H. Mak.

Thailand new signature 50-baht note confirmed


50 baht (US$1.45). Like Pick 112 but new signatures of Korn Chatikavanij (กรณ์ จาติกวณิช, Minister of Finance) and Tharisa Watthanaket (ธาริษา วัฒนเกส, Governor ).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Bangladesh new date (2009) 5-taka note confirmed


5 taka (US$0.05), 2009. Like Pick 46, but new date and solid security thread. Signature: Salehuddin Ahmed.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.


Sri Lanka new date (03.07.2006) 2,000-rupee note confirmed


2,000 rupees (US$17.40). Like Pick 121, but new date (2006-07-03) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Aruba new date (01.07.2008) notes confirmed


Centrale Bank van Aruba has issued 10-, 25-, 50-, and 100-florin notes dated 1 juli 2008 with the new signature combination of Jeanette R. Semeleer as DIRECTEUR and Hassanali Mehran as PRESIDENT. Aside from the date and signature, everything else about the notes appears unchanged from the preceding issues of 2003, except the demetalized text on the windowed security thread is slightly different.

The 500-florin denomination was apparently not updated, but I am awaiting confirmation from the central bank.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Philippines planning to issue polymer notes

According to a BuinessMirror report dated 8 July 2009, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is planning to replace its existing abaca-and-cotton banknotes with polymer notes. Deputy BSP governor and officer in charge, Armando Suratos, provided no details on the timing of such a move, but stated that it would result in savings over the long term as polymer notes outlast paper notes in circulation even though they are initially more costly to produce. No further details are available at this time.

Afghanistan new date (2004) notes confirmed

All denominations from Afghanistan (10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 afghanis) have been confirmed issued with the new date of 1383H (2004). The smaller denominations appear to be new date/signature varieties only, but the designs of the 500- and 1,000-afghani notes have been altered at left on front and back and are deserving of new type numbers.






Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Guinea new signature variety 500-franc note confirmed

I’m researching an interesting 1998 note variety for Guinea. As you can see, both 500-franc notes (Pick 36) shown below are dated 1998. However, the note with the AO prefix has a signature variety that’s different from the signature combination on the note with the FB prefix. The odd thing about this discovery is that the second combo is found on all other denominations in the 1998 series, as well as the 1985 series before it, and the 2006-present series.




Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Hungary new date (2008) 2,000-forint note (B583b) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_2000_forint_2008.00.00_B583b_P198b_CB_2071444_fHungary_MNB_2000_forint_2008.00.00_B583b_P198b_CB_2071444_r
Like B583, but new date (2008), new signatures, and Omron rings.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Guernsey new signature 20-pound note confirmed


Pam West, a dealer who specializes in British notes, sends word that Guernsey has issued a £20 (US$32) with the signature of Bethan Haines as CHIEF ACCOUNTANT. The first prefix is C900001. The note is like Pick 58, but the wording on the back is darker, the righthand underprint is moved 5 mm to the right. The note has a new 1.4-mm StarDust windowed security thread and a new watermark with a larger portrait which has more contrast. Also there are Cornerstone watermarks in the four corners. The Guernsey Fresian is depicted as a shape in silver foil, overprinted with Intaglio ink. The undated note bears a new imprint of DE LA RUE. According to visitor Kai, this note was introduced 04.06.2009.

Courtesy of Pam West.

Kyrgyzstan new 5,000-som note confirmed


The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic introduced a 5,000-som note (US$122) on 2 March 2009. The front of the note features a portrait of actor, writer, and sportsman Suimenkul Chokmorov. On the back is Ala-Too, one of the oldest cinemas of the capital city of Bishkek. Previously the largest denomination was the 1,000-som note issued in 2000.

Courtesy of Cleophas Elmakias Schockemohle and Peter Kelly.

Libya new 20-dinar note confirmed


This 20-dinar (US$16) note was introduced 3 March 2009.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

India new date (2009) 100-rupee note with R inset letter confirmed


The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a 100-rupee (US$2) note with R inset letter, dated 2009, with the signature of RBI governor D. Subbarao.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

French Pacific Territories new signature varieties confirmed


500 francs (US$6.20), ND (2003-). Like Pick 1, but new signatures as follows:

Le Directeur Général - Alain Vienney
Le Présidente du Conseil de Surveillance - Jean-Pierre Landau
Le Directeur - Patrick Besse

The 5,000- and 10,000-franc notes have also been confirmed with this new signature combo.

Furthermore, in late 2008 the 1,000-franc note was issued with the same signatories, except that Le Directeur Général was still Jean-Michel Severino:

Courtesy of Krassimir Dimitrov and Rui Palhares.

Australia new date (2008) 20-dollar note confirmed


20 dollars (US$16.10), (20)08. Like Pick 59, but new date and new signatures (Glenn R. Stevens, Governor; Dr. Ken Henry, Secretary to the Treasury).

The Reserve Bank of Australia has apparently printed all denominations dated 2008, so all will eventually appear in circulation, though only the 20-, 50-, and 100-dollar notes have been confirmed to date.

Courtesy of Scott de Young.

Tanzania Pick 20a: Does it exist?


In trying to complete my catalog chapter for Tanzania, I have managed to compile images of every note type and variety with the exception of Pick 20a. According to the SCWPM, this 200-shilling note was issued in 1992 with the modified portrait of President Ali Hassan Mwinyi (see P20b with signature 8) and signature 7 of Cleopa David Msuya and Gilman Rutihinda (shown taken from P18b).

I have searched every web site and dealer inventory list I have at my disposal and yet have never been able to find Tanzania Pick 20a. So, is this yet another example of Krause including a listing for a note that doesn’t exist as described, or can someone please confirm it was actually issued by emailing a scan of same? I welcome any and all input or leads for a definitive answer.

Curacao new 1-guilden specimen confirmed


This note is a previously unlisted specimen of Pick 35a dated 1942.

Courtesy of Christoph Thomas.

Mauritania unissued 1,000-ouguiya note (B111s) confirmed

The following note dated 28.11.1981 is a recently-discovered unissued 1,000-ouguiya specimen, apparently printed by G&D without imprint. Taking into consideration that the new SCWPM lists another unissued specimen dated 1977-6-26 by TDLR (Pick 3A), it appears plausible that Banque Centrale de Mauritanie had put out a tender for security printers to propose new designs to replace the 1974 series of notes. Neither of these specimens were approved, and the old series continued in use with date and signature changes through 2002.

Anyone with additional information about either of these specimens is encouraged to share same. I’m particularly interested in identifying the bearded man in the portrait of this note; it’s the same image used as the watermark for all notes except the original 1973 series. Also, can anyone translate the signature titles magnified below?





Courtesy of Weldon D. "Burt" Burson.

Cuba new date (2008) 1-peso note (B901h) confirmed


Like B901g, but new date (2008).

Courtesy of Dr. Manjunath P. Iyer.

Dominican Republic new date (2009) 1,000-peso oro note confirmed



1,000 pesos oro (US$27.80), 2009. Like Pick 173, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of Jean-Michel Engels.

Ethiopia new date (2008) 50- and 100-birr notes confirmed

The following 50- and 100-birr notes are identical to Pick 51 and 52, respectively, except for the new date of 2008. According to the National Bank of Ethiopia, the other denominations were not and will not be issued with this date.

Please note that the AK prefix on the 50-birr note (US$4.40) represents an overlap in serial prefixes with the 2006 date, which is available in AK and in AL. Normally prefixes in Ethiopian notes continue the progression (the only other example of this that I know of is 100-birr Pick 34 where the serial prefixes for varieties a and b overlap).

For the current designs, replacement notes (AZ) have been confirmed for 100-birr notes (US$8.80) dated 2000 and 2004. If anyone has information regarding other replacements, please send an email with scans to confirm.





Courtesy of Chris Hall.

Thailand new signature varieties confirmed

The following 20-, 100-, and 1,000-baht notes were issued in 2009 and feature new signatures of Korn Chatikavanij (Finance Minister) and Tharisa Watthanakase (Governor).









Courtesy of Lars Kersten.

Thailand new 50-baht commemorative confirmed


This 50-baht (US$1.45) specimen with commemorative overprint was issued on 1 November 2004 to commemorate the inauguration of the Note Printing Works. The banknote comes in a blue folder. This note exists only as a specimen; there is no regular issue with this overprint (shown below broken into two lines for legibility), which reads in English “In commemoration of the inauguration of the Banknotes Management Department of the bank of Thailand, 1 November 2004 (B.E. 2547)”:



Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk.

Cambodia new date (2005) 10,000-riel note confirmed


10,000 riels (US$2.40), 2005. Like Pick 56, but new date.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk and Wally Myers.

Hungary new 20,000-forint note (B586) with Omron rings confirmed

Hungary_MNB_20000_forint_2008.00.00_B586a_P201a_GB_2843483_fHungary_MNB_20000_forint_2008.00.00_B586a_P201a_GB_2843483_r
Like B577, but new dates, new signatures, and Omron rings.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

India new date (2009) 5-rupee note confirmed


5 rupees (US$0.10), 2009. Like Pick 88A, but with date at lower center on back (previous issues were undated), new signatures, windowed security thread with demetalized text, and inset letter E.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Madagascar revised 10,000-ariary note confirmed

The first set of images below are Pick 92, the 10,000-ariary (US$5.10) note issued in March 2007. The second set is of a new type, as it no longer has any references to francs on the front or back. Also, the signature is new, too.





Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Indonesia new date (2004/2008) 100,000-rupiah note confirmed


100,000 rupiah (US$9.75), 2004/2008. Like Pick 146, but new date.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Hungary new 10,000-forint note (B582) with Omron rings confirmed

Hungary_MNB_10000_forint_2008.00.00_B585a_P200a_AC_5332255_fHungary_MNB_10000_forint_2008.00.00_B585a_P200a_AC_5332255_r
Like B576i, but new date (2008), new signatures, and Omron rings.
 
Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Netherlands Antilles new date (01.01.2008) 100-guilder note confirmed


100 guilders (US$55.85)
Like Pick 31, but new date (1 januari 2008).

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Uganda new date (2009) 10,000-shilling note confirmed


10,000 shillings (US$4.75)
Like Pick 45, but new date (2009).

P.S. Be aware than the 15th edition of the SCWPM incorrectly includes the 2004-dated note as Pick 45a when in fact it is a variety of Pick 41. The difference between the two types is evident when examining the denomination in the lower left front.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Hungary new 5,000-forint note (B584) with Omron rings confirmed

Hungary_MNB_5000_forint_2008.00.00_B584a_P199a_BB_1701415_fHungary_MNB_5000_forint_2008.00.00_B584a_P199a_BB_1701415_r
Like B575, but new date (2008), new signatures, and Omron rings.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Hungary new 500-forint note (B581) with Omron rings confirmed

Hungary_MNB_500_forint_2007.00.00_B581a_P196_EA_3209399_fHungary_MNB_500_forint_2007.00.00_B581a_P196_EA_3209399_r
Like B570e, but new date (2007), new signatures, and Omron rings.

This appears to be the earliest date of this denomination with Omron rings. However, this denomination was subsequently issued dated 2008 in varieties with and without Omron rings.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Somaliland new date (2002) 50-shilling note confirmed


50 shillings (US$0.01)
Like Pick 7c, but new date (2002).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Sudan 10,000-dinar specimen dated 1996 confirmed


10,000 dinars
Brown. Front: Presidential Palace building in Khartoum; leaf; frond. Back: Wheat; coat of arms; water jugs; unknown building with palm trees. Windowed security thread with demetalized BANK OF SUDAN and Arabic text. Watermark: Domed building. Printer: Unknown. 140 x 65 mm.
١٩٩٦ (1996). Signature TK. Specimen with diagonal red SPECIMEN overprint. Unissued.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.


Mongolia new date (2008) 100-tögrög note (B422b) confirmed

Mongolia_MB_100_togrog_2008.00.00_B422b_P65_AK_9528654_fMongolia_MB_100_togrog_2008.00.00_B422b_P65_AK_9528654_r
Like B422a, but new date (2008) and new signature.

Courtesy of Michael E. Knabe.

Guatemala new date (12.03.2008) 1-quetzal note confirmed


1 quetzal (US$0.15), 12 DE MARZO DE 2008. Like Pick 109, but new date, new signatures, and new printer imprint (OBERTHUR TECHNOLOGIES). Polymer.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Gambia issues new signature varieties 16.04.2009

According to a press release from the Central Bank of The Gambia, on 16 April 2009, the bank “issued into circulation new D5 and D10 banknotes [US$0.20 and 0.40]. This is the first series of banknotes issued by the Bank since the appointment of Governor Momodou Bamba Saho [on 01.08.2007] and First Deputy Governor Basiru A. O. Njai. The new notes bearing the signatures of Governor Saho and First Deputy Governor Njai, are a reprint of the current design banknotes [Pick 25 and 26]. The design and features of these banknotes are similar to the current family of new design banknotes introduced in 2006. The new D5 and D10 banknotes will circulate side by side with the current existing banknotes. All current existing banknotes continue to be legal tender.”

Dominican Republic new date (2006) 2,000-peso oro note confirmed


2,000 pesos oro (US$55.65), 2006. Like Pick 174a, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Chile new date (2008) 5,000-peso note (B293cc) confirmed


5,000 pesos (US$9.35), 2008. Like Pick 155f, but new date, new signatures, and the two horizontal sorting bars in lower left front are now closer together.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

South Korea issues new 50,000-won note

On 23 June 2009, the Bank of Korea issued its first-ever 50,000-won note, now the highest denomination in the country.


50,000 won (US$38.85)
Yellow and green. Front: Tree branches, grape leaf, berries, and eggplant; painter and author Shin Saim-dang. Back (vertical): Bamboo tree and Japanese apricot tree. Holographic stripe with demetalized BANK OF KOREA 50000. Windowed Motion security thread. Solid security thread with demetalized 한국은행 50000. Watermark: Shin Saim-dang and electrotype 5 within pentagon. Printer: 한국조폐공사 제조 (Korea Minting & Security Printing Corporation). 154 x 68 mm.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Guyana new signature 20-dollar note confirmed

Two different new signature varieties of Pick 30 have been confirmed for Guyana’s 20-dollar note (US$0.10). The color differences seen below are due to the notes being scanned on different equipment.


Like Pick 30, but new signatures (Lawrence Williams, GOVERNOR; Saisnarine Kowlessar, MINISTER OF FINANCE). Printer: THOMAS DE LA RUE AND COMPANY LIMITED.


Like Pick 30, but new signatures (Lawrence Williams, GOVERNOR; Ashni Singh, MINISTER OF FINANCE). Printer: DE LA RUE.

The $100 and $1,000 notes have also been issued with the signature of Ashni Singh.

Courtesy of Murtaza Azeez.

India considering polymer notes

According to a Business Standard article dated 3 June 2009, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is considering a pilot project to introduce polymer notes in an effort to increase the longevity of its banknotes, said H R Khan, executive director, RBI. The timing of the project has not yet been announced.

Bank of England to issue new £50 note in 2011

On 29 May 2009, the Bank of England announced that it would issue a new 50-pound note in early 2011. The new £50 note (US$82) will feature portraits of 18th century entrepreneur Matthew Boulton and engineer James Watt. Bank of England Governor, Mervyn King, said, “Just as the Bank of England plays an essential role in the economy as the United Kingdom’s central bank, so too did Boulton and Watt’s steam engines and their many other innovations as essential factors in the nation’s Industrial Revolution. So many of the advantages society now enjoys are due in large part to the vital role of engineering and the brilliance and foresight of people such as Boulton and Watt whose development and refinement of steam engines gave an incredible boost to the efficiency of industry.”

“The unique and rare opportunity that the Bank has through its banknotes to acknowledge and promote awareness of our nation’s heritage of artistic, social and scientific endeavour is an honour for us. The Bank’s choice of Boulton and Watt, a reminder of the invaluable contribution from engineering and the entrepreneurial spirit to the advancement of society, I think, well reflects this.”

The Boulton and Watt £50 banknote will be the second note in the Series F family which began with the introduction of the Adam Smith £20 note on 13 March 2007. Therefore its overall appearance will be similar. But for the first time two portraits will appear together on the reverse of the note, those of Boulton and Watt, along with the image of a steam engine and the Soho (Birmingham) Manufactory. As with the Adam Smith £20 banknote however, continuity is provided with the current portrait of Her Majesty The Queen, which was first used in 1990 and which will be retained on the front of the note. Further details of the design and the range of security features to be included on the new note will be revealed when the new note is launched.

Bulgaria issues revised 5-lev note

On 1 June 2009, the Bulgarian National Bank introduced a revised BGN 5 banknote. The new 2009 issue has the same dimensions, coloring, and graphical design as the 1999 note, with some minor changes. Both notes will circulate in parallel. In keeping with a tradition which it started following the introduction of the 100-lev note issued 8 December 2003, the bank has sold the first 100 notes (serial numbers БА 0000001 to БА 0000100) for BGN 6.6 each, a 20% premium over face value.


5 leva (US$3.55), 2009. Like Pick 116, but new date, new signatures, new holographic anti-copy stripe, new windowed security thread, added latent image, БНБ electrotype added to the watermark, and additional bifluorescence.

Courtesy of Krassimir Dimitrov, Andrew Roberts, and Stefan Tzvetkov.

Scotland may commemorate Commonwealth Games with note

Labour MSP Margaret Curran has written to the Royal Bank of Scotland, the Bank of Scotland, and the Clydesdale Bank urging them to consider issuing a commemorative banknote to mark the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. No word yet on whether any of the banks will take up the idea.

Nepal new 5-rupee note confirmed


The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has issued a new updated 5-rupee note.

Courtesy of Roman Boroznjak.

Nicaragua issues 100- and 200-córdoba notes

On 1 June 2009, the Central Bank of Nicaragua introduced new 100- and 200-córdoba banknotes, the former printed on paper and the latter printed on polymer.


100 cordobas (US$4.95). L. 12 SEPTIEMBRE DE 2007. Introduced 01.06.2009. Front: Monument to Rubén Darío. Back: Cathedral of Leon. Windowed security thread with demetalized BCN 100. Watermark: Tomb of Rubén Darío in the Cathedral of Leon, electrotype 100, and Cornerstones. 146 x 67 mm. Signature: Antenor Rosales Bolaños, PRESIDENTE.


200 cordobas (US$9.85). L. 12 SEPTIEMBRE DE 2007. Introduced 01.06.2009. Front: Folk dancers. Back: Guardabarranco bird and Isla de Ometepe. 151 x 67 mm. Polymer. Signature: Antenor Rosales Bolaños, PRESIDENTE. Polymer.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Thomas Krause, and Gustavo Rios.

Mongolia new 5-tögrög note (B429) confirmed

Mongolia_MB_5_togrog_2008.00.00_B429a_P61B_AE_3477128_fMongolia_MB_5_togrog_2008.00.00_B429a_P61B_AE_3477128_r
Like B405a, but it has the date (2008) printed on the back, plus the text and signature on front has changed.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Pakistan issues notes signed by Governor Raza

On 15 May 2009, State Bank of Pakistan issued all denominations with the signature of the new governor, Syed Saleem Raza, who assumed the post on 2 January 2009. These banknotes are the same color, design, and size as the preceding notes.

Bangladesh new date (2008) 50-taka note confirmed


Bangladesh Bank has issued a 50-taka note (US$0.75) like Pick 41, but dated 2008 and signed by Governor Salehuddin Ahmed.

On 3 May 2009, Dr. Atiur Rahman was appointed the 10th governor of Bangladesh Bank, so we can expect new signature varieties to appear soon bearing his signature.

Courtesy of Mohammed J. Islam.


Nicaragua issues 10- and 20-córdoba polymer notes

On 15 May 2009, the Central Bank of Nicaragua introduced new 10- and 20-córdoba banknotes. Printed on polymer, the new notes cost 30 percent more to manufacture than paper notes, but the president of the BCN, Antenor Rosales Bolaños, assured the public that they are impermeable, hygienic, and last up to four times as long.


10 córdoba (US$0.50), L. 12 SEPTIEMBRE DE 2007. Introduced 15.05.2009. Front: Castillo Inmaculada Concepción (Castle of the Immaculate Conception) in Rio San Juan. Back: Coat of arms; Hacienda San Jacinto in Managua. Signature: Antenor Rosales Bolaños, PRESIDENTE. 131 x 67 mm. Polymer.


20 córdobas (US$1), L. 12 SEPTIEMBRE DE 2007. Introduced 15.05.2009. Front: Girl pounding grain; typical house on the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Back: Coat of arms; five women dancing the palo de Mayo (Maypole). Signature: Antenor Rosales Bolaños, PRESIDENTE. 136 x 67 mm. Polymer.

Denominations of 100 and 200 córdobas will be issued shortly, with 50- and 500-córdoba notes to follow. Of these, the 200-córdoba note will also be polymer, with the other denominations printed on paper.

Courtesy of Oscar Fonseca, Thomas Krause, and Gustavo Rios.

Russian banknote reportedly depicts death camp

According to a Mosnews.com article dated May 22, 2009, “elderly residents of the city of Archangelsk, North Russia, have asked the Minister of Finance, Alexei Kudrin, to change the image on the 500-ruble banknote (Pick 271, shown below), which they claim is a picture of a Soviet death camp. The note carries an image of the Solovetsky Monastery, a UNESCO world heritage site. However, in the Soviet era between 1926 and 1938 the crosses were removed from the buildings and the site was used as a special prison and a gulag prototype.”

“We all understand that they just wanted to depict one of the most beautiful sights of our city, the famous Solovetsky Monastery, but they have accidentally depicted the Solovetsky death camp,” 72-year-old Arkhangelsk resident Vasily Fedotov said.



“If you look at the [back of the] banknote closely you will notice that the holy crosses, which usually top Orthodox churches, are only seen on one golden dome in the picture. This means that the artist has painted the death camp. Our banknote is the only note in the world with a picture of a World War II concentration camp. Our feelings are hurt. We feel pain for veterans and for the people who died in these damned death camps. I hope that Alexei Kudrin will hear our prayers and change the picture,” he added.

Canada new signature notes dated 2008 confirmed








The above notes are all dated 2006 on front and printed 2008 on back. They are like preceding issues, but with a new signature combination: W.P. Jenkins and M.J. Carney. As of late May, apparently the $100 has not yet be issued with this date/signature combination.

Courtesy of Jim “Rubycored” Chen.

Botswana new date (2008) 20-pula note (B121d) confirmed

Botswana_BOB_20_pula_2008.00.00_B121d_PNL_E-93_223720_fBotswana_BOB_20_pula_2008.00.00_B121d_PNL_E-93_223720_r
Like B121c, but new date (2008) and new printer imprint (DE LA RUE).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Albania new date (2007) 1,000-lek note confirmed


1,000 lek (US$10.55)
Like Pick 69, but new date (2007), new signatures, and Cornerstone watermarks. Printer: (TDLR).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

New Zealand new date (2006) 100-dollar note confirmed


100 dollars (US$61.90), (20)06. Like P189b, but new date with Alan Bollard signature.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Jamaica to issue 5,000-dollar note (B242) in September 2009

According to a Jamaica Observer article dated 15 May 2009, the Bank of Jamaica plans to issue a 5,000-dollar banknote in September 2009, which will bear the image of late former prime minister, Hugh Lawson Shearer. Currently the highest Jamaican note in circulation is the $1,000 banknote. The new $5,000 banknote, which is almost 20% above the minimum wage of $4,070 per week, is equivalent to approximately US$56.



Derick Latibeaudiere, governor of the Bank of Jamaica, will officially launch the new banknote on May 18, 2009, at the central bank in downtown Kingston. "The launch will take the form of a presentation of a proof note, specially packaged, to Dr Denise Eldemire Shearer, widow of the late former prime minister of Jamaica, Hugh Lawson Shearer, whose portrait appears on the front of the note," said the central bank. Aside from Shearer's portrait, the new $5,000 note will also have pictures of various plants and a bird. The note is sand or khaki in color according to Observer sources. Shearer served Jamaica as prime minister from 1967-72, succeeding Sir Donald Sangster.

The note is printed by DLR and features an Optiks security thread and Cornerstone watermarks, among other anti-counterfeiting elements.

Liberia new date (2006) 5-dollar note confirmed


5 dollars (US$0.10)
Like Pick 26, but new date (2006) and new signatures (Antoinette Sayeh, MINISTER OF FINANCE; J. Mills Jones, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Syria revised 1,000-pound notes dated 1998 confirmed



Recently a new variety of the 1,000-pound (US$21.40) note, Pick 111a (top), have been confirmed. The new variety (bottom), has a small map in circle added to back, below “CENTRAL BANK OF SYRIA.” Both notes are dated 1997.

Courtesy of Besher Ghannam.

Syria revised 500-pound notes dated 1998 confirmed




Recently two new varieties of the 500-pound (US$10.70) note, Pick 110a (top), have been confirmed. The first variety (middle), has a small map in circle added to back, below “CENTRAL BANK OF SYRIA.” The second variety (bottom), has the small map, plus a row of leaves added at center bottom, above “FIVE HUNDRED SYRIAN POUNDS,” and the denomination numerals at lower right. All three notes are dated 1998.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net and Besher Ghannam.

Bermuda new variety 20-dollar note dated 2000 confirmed


A new variety 20-dollar note from Bermuda has been confirmed. Pick 53a at top has a silver foil patch in the shape of an artist’s palette at lower left front, but on the new variety the foil patch has a smaller 20, and the artwork to the right includes flowers. Both notes are dated 24 MAY 2000 and have the same signature combinations, and the other security features seem to be unchanged.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Liberia new date (2002) 20-dollar note confirmed


20 dollars (US$0.30)
Like Pick 23, but new date (2002) and new signatures (Lusinee Kamara, MINISTER OF FINANCE; Elie E. Saleeby, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Liberia new date (2008) 50- and 100-dollar notes confirmed


50 dollars (US$0.80)
Like Pick 29, but new date (2008) and new signatures (Antoinette Sayeh, MINISTER OF FINANCE; J. Mills Jones, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR).


100 dollars (US$1.60)
Like Pick 30, but new date (2008) and new signatures (Antoinette Sayeh, MINISTER OF FINANCE; J. Mills Jones, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Ghana 2007 specimen set reported


A complete specimen set of Ghana’s current banknote issues (dated 1st July 2007) has been reported and confirmed. These specimens have diagonal red SPECIMEN overprints and all-zero serial numbers.

Courtesy of Leszek Porowski.

Pakistan new date (2008) 100-rupee note (B235c) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_100_rupees_2008.00.00_B235c_P48_CH_1406465_fPakistan_SBP_100_rupees_2008.00.00_B235c_P48_CH_1406465_r
Like B235b, but new date (2008).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Pakistan new date (2008) 1,000-rupee note (B238c) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_1000_rupees_2008.00.00_B238c_P50c_Z_6196516_fPakistan_SBP_1000_rupees_2008.00.00_B238c_P50c_Z_6196516_r
Like B238b, but new date (2008). Prefix Z, AA - AR.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

History of Paper Currency in the Seychelles available


On December 2008, the Central Bank of Seychelles published a special second edition of its publication that traces the history of paper currencies in the Seychelles, dating from the period of French colonization to the present.

Entitled “History of Paper Currency in the Seychelles,” the new 55-page booklet, in full colour, should prove useful not only to banknote collectors but also for educational purposes, as it includes a section which describes the flora & fauna appearing on the most recent paper currencies of the islands.

Divided into sections pertaining to marked periods and events in the life of the Seychelles currency, the booklet provides colourful illustrations of the different forms of paper currency used over the years.

Information for the booklet was compiled by a small group from the Central Bank with the help of the National Archives and several individuals who are experts in their fields. They include Adrian Skerrett (conservationist), Dr. Jeanne Mortimer (biologist and conservationist), Julien Durup (archivist and historian), Kantilal Jivan Shah (historian, naturalist, conservationist, artist, photographer, healer, numismatist and philatelist) and Stella Doway (Senior Museum Curator).

In a foreword to the publication, CBS Governor Francis Chang Leng says: “It is a rewarding feat for readers to explore the different varieties, sizes and designs of the various denominations of the Seychelles rupee notes, which have been issued over the years, not forgetting the individuals who were in authority in the country at the time the notes were printed and issued. Not only is this booklet very informative, but it can also be used as a guide for currency enthusiasts.”

The Central Bank of Seychelles sells copies of this book from its web site, but isn’t very responsive to email inquiries, and only accepts wire transfers which are costly and time-consuming. After jumping through a lot of hoops, I was finally able to obtain a few copies of this amazing book, but these have now been spoken for. Good luck to anyone attempting to purchase directly from the CBS. By the way, the CBS web site still shows the first edition of this book, but I believe that has sold out and that only the second edition is currently available.

Laos issues new 1,000-kip note dated 2008



1,000 kip (US$0.10)
Green and blue. Front: Three young women; temple; coat of arms. Back: Dancer; elephant; grazing cattle; power lines. Solid security thread. Watermark: Unknown. Printer: Bank of the Lao PDR (w/o imprint). 2008. No signature. Introduced 30.10.2008.

Download bank press release (in Lao). Translation requested.


This note is also available as a specimen with horizontal red Lao overprint.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Thomas Augustsson, and Leszek Porowski.

Nepal new 20-rupee note confirmed


20 rupees (US$0.25), ND (2009). With the issuance of this note, the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) continues to remove King Gyanendra’s name, image, and royal symbols from the country’s currency.

Courtesy of Roman Boroznjak.

Mongolia new 1-tögrög note (B428) confirmed

Mongolia_MB_1_togrog_2008.00.00_B428a_P61A_AD_1294835_fMongolia_MB_1_togrog_2008.00.00_B428a_P61A_AD_1294835_r
Like B404, but it has the date (2008) printed on the back, plus the text and signature on front has changed.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Australia new date (2008) 100-dollar note confirmed

100 dollars (US$73), (20)08. Like Pick 55, but new date and new signatures (Glenn R. Stevens, Governor; Dr. Ken Henry, Secretary To The Treasury).

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Sudan pledges to help Somalia print banknotes

On 3 May 2009, the Sudanese News Agency reported that Sudan’s government said it would print new currency for the Somali government. The finance minister of the Somali government, Sharif Hassan Sheik Adan, met in the Sudanese capital of Khartoum on April 29, to talk with Sudan’s minister for finance, Dr. Awad Ahmed Jazmet, who said that Sudan will help Somalia with the development of financial constitutions and would renew trade relations between the two countries. Currently the only banknote circulating in Somalia is the 1,000-shiling note (Pick 37; face value of US$0.70), which has been reprinted without authorization by Somali businessmen. No word yet on when new notes would enter circulation, nor what denominations would be printed.

Barbados revised 100-dollar note from 2000 confirmed


A previously unreported $100 note from Barbados has recently been reported. As you can see, Pick 59 (top) bears the signature of Winston Cox, whereas the new note (middle) and Pick 65 (bottom) are both signed by Marion Williams, who took over as governor on 01.11.1999. Although the newly-discovered note bears black, not red, serial numbers like Pick 65, its registration device at left is not partially shaded. As such, this new note appears to straddle the two issues, with attributes of each.

Courtesy of Art Matz and Roland Schmittner.

Banknotes of Bhutan catalog published


Anil R. Bohora and Gylfi K. Snorrason have just published a new catalog called Banknotes of Bhutan (ISBN 978-81-7525-881-5). This 137-page softcover book is beautifully illustrated in full color throughout, with large front and back images of all notes, and details of vignettes that are thoroughly explained. The book contains everything there is to know about the kings, monuments, and auspicious symbols that appear on Bhutanese notes, as well as the signatories, watermarks, and printers.

I highly recommend Banknotes of Bhutan to anyone interested in this Asian country’s numismatic history. The book costs US$25 + $6 S&H and can be purchased by emailing enterandbuy@yahoo.com.

Papua New Guinea issues commemorative 20- and 100-kina notes

On April 22, 2009, the governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea, Wilson Kamit, gave the following speech concerning the issue of commemorative 20-kina and 100-kina banknotes, which became legal tender the following day:

“Members of the Board, invited guests, staff and management of the Bank of PNG, media representatives, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the release of the our new K20 and K100 paper banknotes commemorating the 2009 KINA & TOEA DAY which is on 19 April 2009. This day unfortunately falls on the weekend this year so we decided to celebrate it today.

Ladies and gentlemen, when we introduced our own currency in 1975, it was one of the many steps of nation building, just like introducing our own national flag, national anthem and international institutions such as the Bank of PNG. The first issue of banknotes was in three denominations, namely the 2 Kina, 5 Kina and 10 Kina notes. The 20 Kina banknote was introduced three years later in 1978, followed by the 50 Kina banknote in 1989 and the 100 Kina note in 2005. Initially, apart from the 100 Kina banknote, all these denominations were in paper substrate.

Our currency has evolved over the 34 years, keeping abreast of the growth and development of the country, the monetization within the economy, changes in the technology of producing currency and the economics (cost) of producing coins and banknotes. You would no doubt have noticed that we have converted our banknotes from paper to polymer substrate as a result of advancement in security and technologies for printing banknotes. This however does not stop us from issuing paper banknotes as well because the technology for paper substrate has evolved with advanced security features as we shall see on our new K100 banknote.

In 2005 we commenced a review of our family of currency. The Bank introduced the K100 as the highest denomination in the family of banknotes, and reduced the size of the K1 coin. The larger sized K1 coin is being gradually withdrawn from circulation. We also demonetized the one and two toea copper coins. Last year, we introduced the new K2 coin which is being used alongside the K2 banknote. Given the frequent usage with the resultant wear and tear of the K2 banknote, we will assess the usage of the K2 coin before deciding on its future.

For the banknotes, we standardized the main theme on all the new series to show the National Parliament House on the front which emphasized Nation building and Nationhood. The images of the Parliament House on each of the banknotes are taken at different angles to make each note unique and different. On the back of the notes, we retained the original designs of traditional forms of money used in different parts of Papua New Guinea.

There are advanced security features incorporated in all these new series of banknotes to protect against counterfeiting. To date, we have not experience any major counterfeiting in our banknotes but it is worthy to take preventive action than to be sorry after.
As I have mentioned during previous releases of our various currencies, Papua New Guinea is predominantly a cash-based economy, where the majority of our people continue to use cash (coins and banknotes) as the main form of payment in settling their transactions. We will therefore ensure an acceptable quality of banknotes with longevity, given our humid, tropical climate and the frequent and rough handling of currency by the public.

The Bank has engaged De La Rue Currency to produce these two commemorative paper banknotes. As a risk management strategy, we have the option to use them should the supplier of our polymer (plastic) banknotes be unable to produce our banknotes. De La Rue has developed a more advanced security feature called the Optiks security thread, which can be seen through the aperture at the front of the new K100 note, making it difficult to produce counterfeits. It is also prudent to have an alternative supplier so that we can optimize on the price quality and swiftness of delivery of orders from our suppliers.”



20 kina (US$7.60)
Red-brown. Front: 35th anniversary logo; coat of arms with bird of paradise perched on Kundu drum and ceremonial spear; National Parliament building in Port Moresby. Back: boar head; toea (cowrie shell) necklace from Madang; Toa armband from Central Province; shell ornament from Western Province; tapa cloth patterns. Windowed security thread with demetalized BPNG. Watermark: Bank logo, electrotype BPNG, and Cornerstones. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 150 x 75 mm. No date. Signature 11. Introduced 04.23.2009.



100 kina (US$38)
Green and gold. Front: 35th anniversary logo; coat of arms with bird of paradise perched on Kundu drum and ceremonial spear; National Parliament building in Port Moresby. Back: Palm tree; cowrie shells; fish; timber; cargo ship; oil rig; bird; jumbo jet; dump truck; microwave tower. Optiks security thread with demetalized BPNG 100. Watermark: Bank logo and Cornerstones. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 150 x 75 mm. No date. Signature 11. Introduced 04.23.2009.

Courtesy of Don Cleveland and Thomas Krause.

India to revise notes with new governor's signature

The Reserve Bank of India will soon introduce revised banknotes in the denominations of 5, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 rupees. The notes will be identical to the current Mahatma Gandhi series, but will bear the signature of the new bank governor, Dr. D. Subbarao. Notes of the current series will remain legal tender.


Burundi issues new 2,000- and 5,000-franc notes

The Central Bank of Burundi issued new 2,000- and 5,000-franc notes (US$1.60 and US$4.05, respectively) on April 7, 2009. The new notes are said to be “impossible to forge.” The existing notes of these denominations will remain legal tender until September 30, 2009. The basic designs of the new notes are unchanged, but they are physically smaller (140 x 71 mm for the Fr2,000 and 145 x 73 mm for the Fr5,000) and use Cornerstone watermarks, revealing that they are printed by De La Rue. The bank’s governor, Gaspard Sindayigaya, said that the nation’s smaller denominations notes could also be reissued.



NL 2,000 francs
Green and blue. Front: Holographic cattle head patch; coat of arms; boys picking tea leaves in field. Back: Lake. Windowed security thread with demetalized BRB. Watermark: Cattle and Cornerstones. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 140 x 71 mm. 01-12-2008. Signature unknown. Introduced 07.04.2009.



NL 5,000 francs
Olive green and violet. Front: Holographic cattle head patch; coat of arms; modern building. Back: Ships, cranes, and building on a dock. Windowed security thread with demetalized BRB. Watermark: Cattle. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 145 x 73 mm. 01-12-2008. Signature unknown. Introduced 07.04.2009.

Courtesy of Page’s Coins and Currency.

Hungary issues notes revised with Omron rings



500 forint (US$2.15), 2008. Like Pick 188, but new date, new signatures, and Omron rings added to front and back in watermark field.

The 500-forint notes dated 2008 without Omron rings were issued bearing prefixes EA, EB, EC, ED. It appears the bank is resetting the prefixes back to EA for the newer issues.



1,000 forint (US$4.30), 2009. Like Pick 195, but new date, new signatures, Omron rings added to front and back in watermark field, black serial numbers instead of red ones, and a silver-holographic security thread instead of a golden-holographic one.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Uganda new date (2008) varieties confirmed


Like Pick 43, but new date (2008) and new signatures (Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile, GOVERNOR; Chris Manyindo Kassami, SECRETARY).

1,000 shillings (US$0.45)
Green and brown. Front: Farmer with hoe; coat of arms; corn stalks; bank emblem. Back: Two trucks; grain elevators. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized 1000. Watermark: Crested crane. Printer: Unknown. 150 x 75 mm.


Like Pick 44, but new date (2008) and new signatures (Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile, GOVERNOR; Chris Manyindo Kassami, SECRETARY).

5,000 shillings (US$2.30)
Violet. Front: Lake Bunyonyi and terraces; silver foil leaves; coat of arms; leaves; bank emblem; equator monument near Masaka. Back: Railroad cars and Kaawa ferry; coffee bush. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized 5000. Watermark: Crested crane. Printer: Unknown. 150 x 75 mm.


Like Pick 45, but new date (2008) and new signatures (Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile, GOVERNOR; Chris Manyindo Kassami, SECRETARY).

10,000 shillings (US$4.60)
Green and red. Front: Musical instruments; coat of arms; bank emblem. Back: Owen Falls dam and Nalubaale Power Station in Jinja; kob (antelope). Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized 10000. Watermark: Crested crane, electrotype 10000, and Cornerstones. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 156 x 76 mm.



Like Pick 46, but new date (2008) and new signatures (Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile, GOVERNOR; Chris Manyindo Kassami, SECRETARY).

20,000 shillings (US$9.25)
Green. Front: Crested crane; coat of arms; bank emblem. Back: Parliament building in Kampala. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized 20000. Watermark: Coat of arms. Printer: Unknown. 160 x 78 mm.


Like Pick 47, but new date (2008) and new signatures (Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile, GOVERNOR; Chris Manyindo Kassami, SECRETARY).

50,000 shillings (US$23.10)
Brown. Front: National Independence monument in Kampala; coat of arms; bank emblem; pineapple. Back: Four workers picking cotton in field. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized 50000. Watermark: Coat of arms and electrotype 50000. Printer: Unknown. 160 x 80 mm.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts and others.

Zimbabwe halts use of own currency for one year

According to a BBC News article dated April 12, 2009, Zimbabwe has suspended the use of the Zimbabwe dollar for at least a year following the legalization of foreign currencies (most notably the United States dollar and South African rand). "There was nothing to support the value of the Zimbabwean dollar," admitted Economic Planning Minister Elton Mangoma. As previously reported on this site, the use of foreign currency has been allowed since January to combat the hyper-inflation that quickly devastated the value of all Zimbabwean dollar-denominated notes, no matter how large. The legal and widespread use of foreign currency has coincided with consumer prices falling for three months in a row. The state-controlled Sunday Mail newspaper said the unity government of Mugabe and opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai decided the Zimbabwe dollar should only be reintroduced when industrial output reaches about 60 percent of capacity from the current 20 percent average.

Liberia new date (2002) 50-dollar note confirmed


50 dollars (US$0.80)
Like Pick 24, but new date (2002) and new signatures (Lusinee Kamara, MINISTER OF FINANCE; Elie E. Saleeby, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Liberia new date (2006) 10-dollar note confirmed


10 dollars (US$0.15)
Like Pick 27, but new date (2006) and new signatures (Antoinette Sayeh, MINISTER OF FINANCE; J. Mills Jones, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR).

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Uruguay new date (2008) 20-peso uruguayo note confirmed


20 pesos uruguayos (US$0.85), 2008.
Like Pick 83, but new date, new signatures, series E, no windowed security thread, and printer imprint FRANÇOIS-CHARLES OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE on back.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Uruguay new date (2006) 100-peso uruguayo note confirmed


100 pesos uruguayos (US$4.15), 2006.
Like Pick 85, but new date, new signatures, series D, and printer imprint Giesecke & Devrient on back.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Uruguay new date (2008) 1,000-peso uruguayo note confirmed


1,000 pesos uruguayos (US$41.65), 2008.
Like Pick 79, but new date, new signatures, series C, wider windowed security thread, and printer imprint Giesecke & Devrient on back.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Netherlands Antilles new date (01.01.2008) 25-guilder note confirmed


25 guilders (US$13.95)
Like Pick 29, but new date (1 januari 2008).
Red. Front: Flamingo bird. Back: Bank logo. No security thread. Watermark: Bank logo. Printer: joh. enschedé en zonen imp. 147 x 66 mm.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Czech Republic issues revised 500-korun note


On 1 April 2009 the Czech National Bank introduced a revised 500-korun note (US$25.50) with improved security features. Existing 500-korun notes dated 1995 and 1997 will remain legal tender. The new notes are dated 2009, carry the signature of bank governor Tuma, use serial number starting with prefix E, and contain the following new/revised security features:

  • rose printed in gold-to-green OVI
  • Omron rings
  • watermark now includes electrotype 500 and primrose flower
  • windowed security thread is now 3-mm wide with cross-hatched demetalized ČNB 500 Kč and it changes color from puce-to-green
  • additional UV elements

Courtesy of Marian Klubert and Christof Zellweger.

India to issue revised 1,000-rupee note without inset letter

According to an article in My Iris dated March 31, 2009, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will shortly issue 1,000-rupee (US$19.85) notes without an inset letter. The notes are part of the Mahatma Gandhi series of 2005. They will bear the signature of RBI governor D. Subbarao.

Additional information and images requested.

Paraguay issues new 20,000- and 100,000-guaraní notes

This item was previously reported, but it has recently been updated with new images and information:

On 10 December 2008, the Bank of Paraguay released into circulation revised 20,000-guarani (prefix B) and 100,000-guarani (prefix D) banknotes. The designs of the notes are similar to the preceding issues of the same denominations, but have new signatures, new dates (2007), and reworked illustrations on front and back. Both notes are protected by watermarks with electrotype denominations, as well as windowed security threads; on the higher denomination, it’s Crane’s new Motion thread. In fact, the printer imprint on both notes is “CRANE CURRENCY.” A new 2,000-guanrani note is scheduled for introduction in August or September 2009.







Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Bill Stubkjaer.

Lesotho new date (2005, 2007, and 2009) 20-maloti notes confirmed


20 maloti (US$3.05), 2005. Like P16, but new date and new signature (E. M. Matekane, GOVERNOR).


20 maloti (US$3.05), 2007 and 2009. Like Pick 16, but new dates, new signature (Dr. M. Senaoana, GOVERNOR), windowed security thread, and electrotype 20 added to arms watermark. Six-digit serial number with single- and double-letter prefixes.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts and Page’s Coins and Currency.

Bermuda issues new note series

On 20 February 2009, the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) celebrated 40 years of service, and the island of Bermuda celebrated the 400th anniversary of its settlement by British explorer Sir George Somers. The BMA is marking these landmark occasions by launching the first complete redesign of Bermuda’s banknotes since the Bermuda dollar was issued in 1969. Planning for this launch commenced in 2005, and the BMA received the permission and support of the minister of finance and the cabinet for this new design in the summer of 2007. The objectives of the launch are to update the design of the Bermuda note family, the basic design of which has been in place since 1969; to provide a distinct Bermuda design, and clearly distinguish the note family from the designs of other countries; to provide a sense of national pride and easy identification with the features by the Bermudian public; to combat counterfeiting by increasing the security features; and to issue notes that are durable in the island’s tropical climate. The new banknotes were unveiled on November 24, 2008, and were introduced on March 9, 2009. Subject to the minister of finance’s approval, the BMA is also planning to issue commemorative note and coin products celebrating the 400th anniversary of Bermuda’s settlement.


2 dollars
Turquoise. Front (vertical): QEII; bluebird; flowers; butterfly; sail boats. Back (vertical): Butterflies; compass rose; dockyard clock tower; statue of Neptune. Optiks security thread. Watermark: Hibiscus flower and electrotype sail boat. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 136 x 69 mm. 1 JANUARY 2009. Signatures: R. Alan F. Richardson and E. Barclay Simmons. Introduced 03.09.2009.


5 dollars
Pink. Front (vertical): QEII; blue marlin fish; flowers; dolphin. Back (vertical): Butterflies; bird of paradise flower; Horseshoe Bay beach; boat passing beneath Somerset bridge. Optiks security thread. Watermark: Hibiscus flower and electrotype sail boat. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 136 x 69 mm. 1 JANUARY 2009. Signature R. Alan F. Richardson and unknown. Introduced 03.09.2009.


10 dollars
Purple. Front (vertical): QEII; blue angel fish; coral; sea turtle. Back (vertical): Anchor; butterflies; ship “The Deliverance;” cannon; Commissioner’s House building in Somerset Parish. Optiks security thread. Watermark: Hibiscus flower and electrotype sail boat. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 136 x 69 mm. 1 JANUARY 2009. Signatures: R. Alan F. Richardson and Lynda Milligan-Whyte. Introduced 03.09.2009.


20 dollars
Green. Front (vertical): QEII; whistling frog; flowers; lizard. Back (vertical): Butterflies; St. Mark’s church; Gibbs Hill lighthouse in Southampton Parish. Optiks security thread. Watermark: Hibiscus flower and electrotype sail boat. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 136 x 69 mm. 1 JANUARY 2009. Signatures: R. Alan F. Richardson and unknown. Introduced 03.09.2009.


50 dollars
Yellow. Front (vertical): QEII; longtail tropic bird; flowers. Back (vertical): Butterflies; St. Peter’s church in town of St. George. Optiks security thread. Watermark: Hibiscus flower and electrotype sail boat. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 136 x 69 mm. 1 JANUARY 2009. Signatures: R. Alan F. Richardson and unknown. Introduced 03.09.2009.

Note: Shortly after the unveiling of the new note designs, ornithologist David Wingate complained that the $50 features a red-billed tropicbird instead of a local white-tailed tropicbird. BMA officials apologized for the error, but won’t change the design because they feel the red bill of the larger bird looks better against the pale yellow background than the orange of the local bird.


100 dollars
Red. Front (vertical): QEII; Red cardinal bird; flowers. Back (vertical): Butterflies; House of Assembly building in Hamilton; cahow bird. Optiks security thread. Watermark: Hibiscus flower and electrotype sail boat. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 136 x 69 mm. 1 JANUARY 2009. Signatures: R. Alan F. Richardson and Robert Steinhoff. Introduced 03.09.2009.

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Guinea revised 10,000-franc note confirmed


10,000 francs (US$2)
Green, blue, and brown. Front: Young girl; coat of arms; three shells and pineapple. Back: Field with trees; “Lady of Maali” rock formation on Mount Loura. 3-mm red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 10000 GNF. Watermark: Young girl, electrotype RG, and Cornerstones. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 153 x 78 mm. 2008. Signature 4.

This note is very similar to 2007 type, but with subtle changes to the design on both sides.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Sierra Leone new date (04.08.2007) 10,000-leone note (B124b) confirmed

Sierra_Leone_BSL_10000_leones_2007.08.04_B124b_P29_W_140069_fSierra_Leone_BSL_10000_leones_2007.08.04_B124b_P29_W_140069_r
Like B124a, but new date (4th AUGUST 2007) and Cornerstones added to watermark. Prefix W - AE.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Libya issues new 1-, 5-, and 10-dinar notes

These notes, all issued 3 March 2009, are like the preceding issues of the same denominations (and are of the same physical sizes), but with reworked designs and enhanced security features. The 20-dinar note is said to have been officially introduced on the same date, but is not yet widely available in circulation as apparently the central bank has a good stock of the older style 20-dinar notes.


1 dinar (US$0.80)
Blue. Front: Muammar Qaddafi. Back: Mosque. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Muammar Qaddafi and electrotype 1. Printer: Unknown. 140 x 70 mm. No date. Signature Farhat O Bengdara. Introduced 03.03.2009.


5 dinars (US$3.90)
Red. Front: Two camels. Back: Monument. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Camels and electrotype 5. Printer: Unknown. 150 x 75 mm. No date. Signature Farhat O Bengdara. Introduced 03.03.2009.


10 dinars (US$7.80)
Green. Front: Omar el-Mukhtar. Back: Fortress and crowd. Windowed security thread with demetalized text. Watermark: Omar el-Mukhtar and electrotype 10. Printer: Unknown. 156 x 78 mm. No date. Signature Farhat O Bengdara. Introduced 03.03.2009.

If anyone can identify the precise names and locations of the structures on the backs, please share this information.

Courtesy of Abdullah Beydoun.

Jordan new date (2008) 1- and 5-dinar notes confirmed


Like B229c, but new date, new signatures, and change to the Arabic characters at top left on front (see details below).


Detail from 1-dinar dated 2005.


Detail from 1-dinar dated 2008.


Like B230b, but new date, new signatures, and change to the Arabic characters at top left on front.

Courtesy of Abdullah Beydoun.

Tanzania notes stolen in transit from Germany

According to an article in The Citizen dated 21 March 2009, the Bank of Tanzania confirmed that Sh34 million (US$26,000) in “calibrated” bills was stolen in transit from Germany to Dar es Salaam. BoT Governor Benno Ndulu refuted earlier media reports that the stolen money was a consignment of new Sh10,000 banknotes printed by the German security printer Giesecke & Devrient, which is also under contract to print new Sh500 and, Sh1,000, and Sh2,000 notes.

Switzerland new date (2006) 200-franc note confirmed


200 francs (US$177). Like P73, but new date (2006) and new signatures (presumably Dr. Hansueli Raggenbass and Dr. Jean-Pierre Roth).

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Georgia new date (2008) 20-lari note confirmed


Like P72, but new date (2008) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Dmitriy Litvak.

Nigeria 20-naira note dated 2007 with 6-digit SN confirmed


Like Pick 34, but dated 2007 with 6-digit serial number. Previously reported 2007-dated N20 has 7-digit serial number.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Mongolia new date (2007) 1,000-tögrög note (B424b) confirmed

Mongolia_MB_1000_togrog_2007.00.00_B424b_P67b_AJ_6666505_fMongolia_MB_1000_togrog_2007.00.00_B424b_P67b_AJ_6666505_r
Like B424a, but new date (2007) and new signature of governor A. Batsukh (2006~January 2009).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Bangladesh revised 10-taka note dated 2008 confirmed

On 21 September 2006, Bangladesh Bank issued a smaller version of the 10-taka note (123 x 60 mm versus 130 x 60 mm). This smaller note has been issued dated 2006, 2007, and 2008, all with the signature of Governor Salehuddin Ahmed.

In late 2008, a revised 2008 10-taka note appeared in circulation. Whereas the previous three small-size 10-taka notes have the national emblem and text intaglio printed, the new note is entirely offset printed, as was the case for this denomination before September 2006. The easiest way to distinguish between the two 2008-dated notes is to compare the text on the front. The earlier note has brown text directly on the underprinting (see top set of scans below) whereas the newer note has the text surrounded by a white background (see bottom set of scans below). The backs appear to be identical.







Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.


Bangladesh revised 2-taka note dated 2007 confirmed

As previously reported, on 27 January 2007, the Bangladesh Bank issued a 2-taka note (US$0.03) dated 2007. This note is like Pick 6C, but has the new date on back, a new signature (Siddique ur Rehman Chaudhry, Finance Secretary), and a windowed security thread on back (see first image below).

However, a new variety also dated 2007 has been reported, but this one appears to be printed on the same paper previously used on this denomination through the year 2004. This note contains a solid embedded security thread, not a windowed thread (see second image below). Please note that the differences in the colors of these images is most likely a result of the notes being scanned with different computer equipment and is not a reflection of a change in the color schemes of the notes themselves.

A new 2008 dated note has also been reported with the signature of Mohammed Tarek, and it too uses a solid security thread (see bottom set of images below).







Courtesy of Mohammed J. Islam, Ronny Hicks, and Sejin Ahn.


Thailand new signature 100-baht note confirmed



A new 100-baht note (US$2.80) has been reported with the signature of สุชาติ ธาดาธำรงเวช (Suchat Thadathamrongwet), who served from September 24 to December 19, 2008. Given his very short term in office, Suchat’s notes may be extremely hard to find in the future. Only this denomination has been reported with this signature combination (the signature of the governor remains that of ธาริษา วัฒนเกส, Tharisa Watthanakase), who has served since November 8, 2006.

Collectors can expect to see new varieties with the signature of the new minister of finance, กรณ์ จาติกวณิช (Korn Chatikavanij), who took over from Suchat on December 20, 2008.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Switzerland new date (2005) 20-franc note confirmed


20 franken (US$16.90), 2005. Like Pick 69, but new date.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Switzerland new date (2006) 10-franc note confirmed


10 franken (US$8.45), 2006. Like Pick 66, but new date.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Royal Bank of Scotland new date (20.12.2007) 20-pound note confirmed


20 pounds (US$28), 20TH DECEMBER 2007. Like P354, but new date. Printer: THOMAS DE LA© 2009: Images may be freely reproduced. RUE AND COMPANY LIMITED.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Swaziland new date (01.04.2006) 20-lilangeni note confirmed


20 emalangeni (US$2), 01:04:2006. Like P30, but new date and signature 11 (Majorzi V. Sithole, MINISTER FOR FINANCE; Martin S. Dlamini, GOVERNOR). Printer: FRANÇOIS-CHARLES OBERTHUR.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

United Arab Emirates new date (2008) 50-dirham note (B221c) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_50_dirhams_2008.00.00_B221c_P29c_204_441933_fUnited_Arab_Emirates_CBA_50_dirhams_2008.00.00_B221c_P29c_204_441933_r
Like B221b, but new date (١٤٢٩/2008). Prefix 204 - 364.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Bank of England refutes report of new notes depicting religious leaders

According to a TotallyJewish.com article dated March 5, 2009, “A new British banknote featuring a portrait of the Chief Rabbi is to be issued later this year in an effort to literally 'restore faith in the economy'. Sir Jonathan Sacks is one of five senior religious leaders whose images will appear on UK currency as part of a series of measures to tackle the credit crunch. The initiative was announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Bank of England this week.”

This “news” item struck me as highly unlikely, so I wrote to the Bank of England for confirmation or denial. As I suspected, the TotallyJewish.com item is either false or was intended as satire. Here is the full response I received from Malcolm Shemmonds, a media representative at the BoE:

“I'm afraid that the news concerning this supposed new banknote issue by ourselves is totally untrue. There are no plans to circulate any new Bank of England notes in the immediate future. However, the Bank of England has a rolling banknote design programme and we may well decide to revise the design of our other notes in due course to reflect the same security features and theme (British historical figures) that have been incorporated within our current banknote series.

“By way of background, you may be interested to know that we decide whom to feature on our banknotes on the basis of an enduring contribution to the advancement of society. Having said that, the choice of whom to celebrate on the banknotes is never easy, and any candidate will naturally have both staunch supporters and detractors. The final choice of who appears on our notes rests with the Governor of the Bank of England.”

Rwanda's 100-franc note to cease being legal tender


According to an article in The New Times dated March 6, 2009, the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) has announced that the 100-franc note (US$0.20) will cease to be legal tender starting December 31, 2009. The notes may be exchanged for other notes and coins. BNR Governor Francois Kanimba said that the 100-franc notes currently in circulation are very old (they were first introduced in 2003) and that the central bank has stopped issuing them to the public.

India new date (2008) 1,000-rupee note confirmed


1,000 rupees (US$19.35), 2008. Like P94, but new date.

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

New Zealand new date (2006) 20-dollar note confirmed


Like P187, but new date (2006) with Alan Bollard signature.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Egypt new date (14.06.2007) 20-pound note confirmed


Like P65, but new date (14.06.2007) and new signature.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

India new date (2008) 50-rupee note confirmed


50 rupees (US$0.95)
Like Pick 97, but new date (2008) and new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor),

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Albania issues revised 500-lek note dated 2007

On February 16, 2009, the Bank of Albania issued a revised 500-lek note. It is dated 2007 and is apparently printed by TDLR based upon its use of Cornerstone watermarks. The note is like the 2001 issue, but has new signatures and a windowed security thread with demetalized text.

Updated versions of the 200- and 5,000-lek notes have also been issued in 2009.


500 lek (US$4.85)
Blue. Front: Prime Minister Ismail Qemali; two-headed independence flag; fountain pen. Back: Desk and chairs in office where independence declared; telegraph machine which transmitted declaration; house where event took place. Windowed security thread with demetalized 500. Watermark: Ismail Qemali and Cornerstones. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 145 x 68 mm. 2007. Signatures unknown. Introduced 16.02.2009.

Courtesy of Michael M. Reissner and banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Egypt new date (10.09.2007) 100-pound note confirmed


100 pounds (US$17.80). Like P67, but new date (10.09.2007), new signature (El-Okdah), and new watermark (Sphinx).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

India new date (2008) 500-rupee note with L inset letter confirmed


500 rupees (US$9.65), 2008. Like P93, but new date, new signature (Dr. Y. V. Reddy, Governor), and L inset letter.

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Macedonia new date (00.01.2008) 10-denar note (B206h) confirmed


Like B206g, but new date (ЈАНУАРИ 2008).

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Bosnia and Herzegovina new date (2008) KM notes confirmed


These convertible marka notes are like the preceding issues, but new date (2008), new signature (Kemel Kozarić, GUVERNER), and windowed security threads.

Reportedly 50 and 100 KM notes dated 2007 were also issued in both Fed. BiH and Serb Rep. varieties. IIf anyone has these notes, please send scans so that they can be confirmed.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and banknoteshop@gmx.net.

India new date/signature 10-rupee note confirmed


10 rupees (US$0.20)
Like Pick 95, but new date (2008) and new signature (Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor since 06.09.2008).

Courtesy of Dr Manjunath P. Iyer.

Isle of Man new signature 20-pound note confirmed


20 pounds (US$28.30), ND. Like Pick 45, but new signature (P.M. Shimmin, Chief Financial Officer).

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Qatar withdrawing old 100- and 500-rial notes

According to a Gulf Times article dated February 25, 2009, Qatar’s 100- and 500-rial notes originally issued in 2003 (Pick 24 and 25, respectively) can be exchanged for new notes at all banks through June 15; for ten years afterwards they can be redeemed only at the Qatar Central Bank. The old notes are being withdrawn in favor of the new versions of these denominations which were issued in 2007 with wide Optiks security threads.

Egypt new date (03.03.2008) 50-pound note confirmed


Like P66, but new date (03.03.2008) and new signature.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

North Korea revised 5,000-won note (B329a) confirmed

North_Korea_DPRK_5000_won_2006.00.00_B329a_PNL_621574_fNorth_Korea_DPRK_5000_won_2006.00.00_B329a_PNL_621574_r
Like B321, but new date (2006) and dark background banner beneath denomination on bottom right and left front does not extend to note’s edge.

Courtesy of Don Cleveland.

Mongolia new date (2007) 500-tögrög note (B423b) confirmed

Mongolia_MB_500_togrog_2007.00.00_B423b_P66b_AK_4139058_fMongolia_MB_500_togrog_2007.00.00_B423b_P66b_AK_4139058_r
Like B423a, but new date (2007) and signature.

Courtesy of Don Cleveland.

Taiwan issues NT$200 and NT$500 stimulus vouchers

On January 19, 2009, every citizen of Taiwan regardless of age received the sum of NT$3,600 in the form of vouchers denominated in NT$200 (U$5.87) and NT$500 (US$14.69).




Each voucher measures 130 x 55 millimeters and has intaglio printing, latent image at bottom left, and OVI denomination at top left. The watermark is of a mum flower repeated throughout the paper.

The back of each note contains a form that retailers are supposed to fill out and stamp when the vouchers are used in their shops. Once redeemed, the retailers can deposit the vouchers for their face value at business banks.

On the front of the vouchers is the Chinese text that translates as “Valid until Ming Guo 98 (2009) September 30" at left, "Republic of China - Economy Stimulating Shopping Vouchers" at top center, "No change shall be given for purchase of goods using this voucher and cannot be redeemed for legal tender cash" at right "National Government, Two Hundred Yuan" at bottom.

These vouchers can be used at any store that accepts them. Despite their face value; many merchants, to encourage their use, have generally allowed them to be redeemed for merchandise significantly higher than their nominal value - it is common to see "Use your $3,600 [shopping vouchers] here and take home NT$36,000 worth of goods!" (that is, 10 times their value) on many shops, especially electronics and supermarkets.

Courtesy of Jim “Rubycored” Chen.

Switzerland new date (2004) 100-franc note confirmed


100 franken (US$85), 2004. Like Pick 72, but new date.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Azerbaijan will not revise notes with new bank name

According to a Trend Capital report dated 18 February 2009, “The Azerbaijani current banknotes in circulation and money reserves created on basis of banknotes will not be changed or replaced in connection with renaming the National Bank of Azerbaijan into the Central Bank according to the constitutional amendments, the NBA said. ‘Depending on results of referendum, changes can be made to banknotes in circulation and new face-values in case of request. Banknotes in circulation will be legal way of payment until their circulation term ends,’ the bank said.”

Madagascar revised 100- and 200-ariary notes confirmed

The following two notes, both dated 2004, have been confirmed with a new signature variety (Frederic Rasamoely). If anyone knows the date of introduction, please share that information.





Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Seychelles revised 50-rupee note confirmed



50 rupees (US$3)
Green, brown, and lilac. Front: Coat of arms; map; angel fish; paille en queue orchids; turtle; silver foil swordfish. Back: Cowrie shells; cars; clock tower in Victoria; yellow-fin tuna fish; tiomitio bird. Windowed security thread with demetalized CBS. Watermark: Turtle. Printer: Unknown. 150 x 75 mm. No date. Signature: Francis Chang Leng, GOVERNOR. Introduced early 2005.

This note is like Pick 38, but it has a silver foil swordfish in the upper right front. Also, at 2 mm the security thread is twice as wide as that on the older note.

Zimbabwe issues new revalued notes

According to a BBC News report dated January 29, 2009, while delivering the annual budget to parliament, acting Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa announced, “In line with the prevailing practices by the general public, [the] government is therefore allowing the use of multiple foreign currencies for business transactions alongside the Zimbabwean dollar.” Previously only licensed businesses could accept foreign currencies, although it was common practice in the black market.

According to a report in The Zimbabwe Times dated February 2, 2009, Gideon Gono, governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, says that Fidelity Printers can churn out only two million notes per day, an amount insufficient to meet the public’s demand for currency. Nonetheless, the country has announced that it is yet again revaluing the dollar, this time by removing 12 zeros. That means the highest denomination in the “old” money, Z$100 trillion, is now equal to Z$100. New notes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 500 dollars. They all feature a color-shift stripe with RBZ, a color-shift Zimbabwe bird, and chevrons as registration devices. The older notes will circulate in parallel until June 30, 2009.










Courtesy of Thomas Krause, Aidan Work, Abdullah Beydoun, and Paul Nahmias.

Zimbabwe allows use of foreign currency

According to a BBC News report dated January 29, 2009, while delivering the annual budget to parliament, acting Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa announced, “In line with the prevailing practices by the general public, [the] government is therefore allowing the use of multiple foreign currencies for business transactions alongside the Zimbabwean dollar.” Previously only licensed businesses could accept foreign currencies, although it was common practice in the black market. Although it is not clear if the local currency will still be printed, it’s possible that this move marks the end of an era for Zimbabwe.

Mexico new date (14.05.2007) 200-peso note confirmed


200 pesos (US$18.10), 14 MAY. 2007. Like P119, but new date and series DM.

Strangely enough, the first new style 200-peso note with Motion thread is dated 15 FEB. 2007 and series A, and a variety has also been confirmed with the date 14 MAY. 2007 and series C. That means this old style note bears a date that’s subsequent to the introduction of the new style notes, and actually shares that date with a new style variety.

Courtesy of Kevin Klauss.

Tonga issues new $2-50 notes 21 January 2009

On 21 January 2009, the National Reserve Bank of Tonga issued newly designed banknotes in the denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pa’anga. The new notes replace the image of King Taufa’ahau Tupou V with that of the reigning King George Tupou V. The watermark is of King Tupou V with electrotype NRBT. On the $1-$5 notes, the 1.4-mm wide windowed security thread is demetalized NRBT. Larger denominations have a 2.0-mm wide red-to-green thread with demetalized NRBT. Older notes will remain legal tender, but will be phased out over time.


1 pa’anga (US$0.50)
Green. Front: King George Tupou V. Back: Whale leaping out of water. 1.4-mm windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.


2 pa’anga (US$1)
Light red. Front: King George Tupou V. Back: Children studying outside school building; two men playing rugby. 1.4-mm windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.


5 pa’anga (US$2.40)
Purple. Front: King George Tupou V. Back: Langi. 1.4-mm windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.


10 pa’anga (US$4.85)
Blue. Front: King George Tupou V. Back: Royal tomb. 2.0-mm red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.


20 pa’anga (US$9.70)
Brown. Front: King George Tupou V. Back: NRBT building. 2.0-mm red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.


50 pa’anga (US$24.30
Light green and yellow. Front: King George Tupou V. Back: Royal Palace building. 2.0-mm red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Cleophas Elmakias Schockemohle, and Sejin Ahn.

Moldova corrected 50- and 100-lei notes confirmed


50 lei (US$5.20), 2008. Like P14, but new date, and caption on back corrected: MĂNĂSTIREA HÎRBOVĂT. 121 x 61 mm.


100 lei (US$10.35), 2008. Like P15, but new date, and caption on back corrected: CETATEA TIGHINA. 121 x 61 mm.

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko.

Georgia new date (2008) 5-lari note confirmed


5 lari (US$3), 2008. Like P70, but new date and new signatures. 115 x 61 mm.

Courtesy of Krassimir Dimitrov.

Latvia issues revised 500-lat note dated 2008

On January 19, 2009, the Latvijas Banka introduced a revised 500-lat note dated 2008. It incorporates the same upgraded security features as the 100-lat note issued on May 21, 2007.



500 latu (US$935), 2008. Like P48, but new date, new signature, varifeye window, heat-sensitive denomination in lower left front (see below).



Courtesy of Cleophas Elmakias Schockemohle and Frank van Tiel.

Colombia new date (2006) notes confirmed


10,000 pesos (US$4.50), 16 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2006. Like P453, but new date.


20,000 pesos (US$8.95), 20 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2006. Like P454, but new date.


50,000 pesos (US$22.40), 23 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2006 and 24 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2006. Like P455, but new dates.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk and Andrés Collazos.

Uruguay new date (2008) 100-peso uruguayo note confirmed


100 pesos uruguayos (US$4.15), 2008.
Like P85, but new date, new signatures, series E, wider windowed security thread, and printer imprint Giesecke & Devrient on back.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Sao Tome and Principe issues new 100,000-dobra note

On December 22, 2008, Luís de Sousa, the governor of the Banco Central de Sao Tomé e Príncipe introduced a new 100,000-dobra note (US$6), the largest denomination ever for the tiny African island country. The notes are said to have 21 security features, though they have not been described.


100,000 dobras (US$5.75)
Light blue, green, and dark red. Front: Lines from Tenreiro’s poem “In Coração em África” (Courage in Africa); papagaio-cinz (gray parrot); leaves; coat of arms; compass rose; poet Francisco José Tenreiro; silver foil open book. Back: Men in costumes with shields standing before monument, celebrating Auto de Floripes in the city of Santo António on the island of Príncipe. Two security threads with demetalized BCSTP. Watermark: Rei Amador. Printer: DE LA RUE. 146 x 67 mm. 03 de Junho de 2005. Signatures: Adelino Castelo David, MINISTRO DO PLANEAMENTO E FINANCAS; Maria do Carmo Trovoada Silveira, GOVERNADORA DO BANCO CENTRAL. Introduced 22.12.2008.

Courtesy of Manuel Pires Horta Rosa.

Zimbabwe unveils notes as large as Z$100 trillion

At the beginning of this week, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe introduced 20- and 50-billion-dollar notes, and today, just four days later, it has unveiled even larger, record-breaking denominations: 10-, 20-, 50-, and 100-trillion-dollar notes. The 10-trillion-dollar note is going into circulation immediately (January 16, 2009), with the others to be introduced gradually.










"The $10 trillion note has the image of the RBZ building and the Conical Tower at the Great Zimbabwe National Monuments," says the state-run Herald newspaper. "The $100 trillion note has the image of a buffalo and the Victoria Falls, the $50 trillion the Kariba Dam spilling and an elephant, while a mineworker drilling in an underground shaft and the GMB grain silos appear on the new $20 trillion note."

The new notes have the same security features as the existing ones: a color-shift stripe printed RBZ, a color-shift Zimbabwe Bird, and the denominations as registration devices.

The 100-trillion-dollar note (that’s 100,000,000,000,000) could buy 20 loaves of bread at current rates, but the Washington think-tank Cato Institute has estimated inflation is running at 89.7 sextillion percent—a figure expressed with 21 zeroes—so vendors adjust prices almost constantly.

Courtesy of Abdullah Beydoun, Thomas Augustsson, Wally Myers, and Frank van Tiel.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank unveils new notes

At Edinburgh Castle on January 14, 2009, First Minister Alex Salmond and the Clydesdale Bank’s chief operating officer David Thorburn announced that a new series of banknotes had been designed to celebrate the best of Scotland’s heritage, people, and culture, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns and the Year of Homecoming 2009. The new notes will enter circulation in late autumn 2009.

The new family of banknotes celebrates famous Scots on the front and the five World Heritage Sites in Scotland on the back, drawing on the Homecoming themes of Burns, Great Minds and Innovation, Culture and Heritage. The new designs are:


£5: Scientist Sir Alexander Fleming and St. Kilda


£10: Poet Robert Burns and The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh


£20: King Robert the Bruce and New Lanark


£50: Suffragette Elsie Inglis and The Antonine Wall


£100: Architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Heart of Neolithic Orkney

These notes will be the first in the UK to have a new “depth image” security hologram, whatever that means. From the images released to the press, it appears only the 100-pound note has a hologram on front to the right of the portrait. Also, the notes bear the signature of David Thorburn.

Macau's Bank of China issues new banknotes

According to a Macau Daily Times article dated January 6, 2009, “The Bank of China has been authorised to issue new Pataca notes with denominations of 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, and 10 patacas. The Bank of China held a ceremony to commemorate the issuance of the new Pataca notes yesterday morning…The new issuance adopted Macau cultural heritage of a mixture of the East and the West as the main theme, and received a good response from the citizens.…The new notes carried artistic designs and anti-counterfeiting measures were added. The new notes would be circulated together with the old versions without any inconvenience caused.”

“The new Pataca notes issued by the Bank of China features UNESCO cultural heritage of Macau, which fully displays the flair of hybrid architectural designs of the East and the West. The verso of all notes will have image of the Macau Banking of China Building, with the four bridges of Macau in the background, who aimed to symbolise the “bridging” function of Macau in communication of cultures and its economic development. The new Bank of China Pataca notes will be released for circulation starting today until the Chinese New Year, while the old notes will continue to be the legal tender in Macau.”

If anyone can positively identify the bridges that appear on the back of the notes, please let me know so that I can share this information.


10 pataca (US$1.25)
Red. Front: Lotus flower; TEMPLO DE A-MÁ (temple of A-Ma) building. Back: Bridge; Banco da China in Macau headquarters building. Solid security thread with demetalized 10. Windowed security thread with demetalized BANK OF CHINA and bank logo. Watermark: Lotus flower with electrotype 10. Printer: Unknown. 139 x 69 mm. 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2008 (08.08.2008). Signature unknown. Introduced 05.01.2009.



20 pataca (US$2.50)
Purple. Front: Lotus flower; RUÍNAS DE S. PAULO (ruins of Saint Paul) church building. Back: Bridge; Banco da China in Macau headquarters building. Solid security thread with demetalized 20. Windowed security thread with demetalized BANK OF CHINA and bank logo. Watermark: Lotus flower with electrotype 20. Printer: Unknown. 144 x 72 mm. 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2008 (08.08.2008). Signature unknown. Introduced 05.01.2009.


50 pataca (US$6.25)
Brown. Front: Lotus flower; TEATRO D. PEDRO V (Pedro V theatre) building. Back: Bridge; Banco da China in Macau headquarters building. Solid security thread with demetalized 50. Windowed security thread with demetalized BANK OF CHINA and bank logo. Watermark: Lotus flower with electrotype 50. Printer: Unknown. 149 x 75 mm. 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2008 (08.08.2008). Signature unknown. Introduced 05.01.2009.


100 pataca (US$12.50)
Blue. Front: Lotus flower; FORTALEZA DA GUIA (Guia Fortress) building, chapel, and lighthouse. Back: Sai Van bridge; Banco da China in Macau headquarters building. Solid security thread with demetalized 100. Windowed security thread with demetalized BANK OF CHINA and bank logo. Watermark: Lotus flower with electrotype 100. Printer: Unknown. 153 x 77 mm. 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2008 (08.08.2008). Signature unknown. Introduced 05.01.2009.


500 pataca (US$62.60)
Green. Front: Lotus flower; CASA DO MANDARIM (Mandarin House) building. Back: Bridge; Banco da China in Macau headquarters building. Solid security thread with demetalized 500. Windowed security thread with demetalized BANK OF CHINA and bank logo. Watermark: Lotus flower with electrotype 500. Printer: Unknown. 158 x 80 mm. 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2008 (08.08.2008). Signature unknown. Introduced 05.01.2009.


1,000 pataca (US$125)
Orange. Front: Lotus flower; EDIFICIO DO LEAL SENADO (Loyal Senate) building, now the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau (IACM) headquarters. Back: Friendship bridge; Banco da China in Macau headquarters building. Solid security thread with demetalized 1000. Windowed security thread with demetalized BANK OF CHINA and bank logo. Watermark: Lotus flower with electrotype 1000. Printer: Unknown. 164 x 82 mm. 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2008 (08.08.2008). Signature unknown. Introduced 05.01.2009.
Courtesy of Frank van Tiel and Dieter und Alfred Eheim.

Tanzania planning new banknote series

According to an article in The Citizen dated 8 January 2009, “The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) plans a major change of the country’s currency notes…The central bank has in a notice published in the media last month, and also posted on its website, invited tenders for the printing of the currency notes… The central bank’s invitation of tenders means that Thomas De La Rue, which has been printing Tanzanian currency, is not guaranteed continuation of the contract…The plan to change the currency, the sources said, was also partly due to the central bank’s desire to remove from the notes the signatures of two former officials implicated in various scandals. The current notes bear the signatures of former BoT Governor Daudi Ballali, who was sacked by President Jakaya Kikwete after it was revealed by an international audit firm, Ernst & Young, that the BoT lost Sh133 billion under his watch. The notes also bear the signature of former Finance Minister Basil Mramba, who is facing abuse of office charges at the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court in Dar es Salaam.”

Zimbabwe issues new $20- and $50-billion notes

On January 12, 2009, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe introduced another pair of new high-denomination notes, coinciding with the lifting of withdrawal restrictions this week. The design of the new 20-billion-dollar note includes the Chiremba balancing rocks in Epworth on the front. The back depicts the RBZ headquarters building and the Great Zimbabwe ruins. The new 50-billion-dollar note was worth US$1.25 at Monday's black market exchange rate. A week ago, Z$50 billion was worth US$2.20, and two weeks ago it was worth US$3.30.







Courtesy of Abdullah Beydoun.

Turkmenistan new notes dated 2009 confirmed

On January 1, 2009, the Central Bank of Turkmenistan issued a new series of notes printed by Thomas De La Rue, which has printed Turkmenistan currency since independence in 1991. The new notes bear images of prominent figures of the Turkmen nation and architectural compositions of Ashgabat. The government revalued its currency in conjunction with the introduction of the new notes. Prior to the revaluation, the official exchange rate was 5,000 manats to the US dollar, with the black market rate almost five times that. The new manat is equal to 50 of the “old” manat.


TMB B15 (P22): 1 manat (US$0.35)
Green. Front: Map of Turkmenistan; coat of arms; Togrul Beg Türkmen. Back: Beyik Saparmyrat Türkmenbasynyň Milli Medeniyet Merkezi (National Cultural Centre of Turkmenistan) buildings; five stars and crescent moon. Solid security thread and solid security thread with demetalized 1TMB. Watermark: Togrul Beg Türkmen; electrotype five stars, crescent moon, and 1; Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 120 x 60 mm.
a. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.01.2009.


TMB B16 (P23): 5 manat (US$1.75)
Tan. Front: Map of Turkmenistan; coat of arms; Soltan Sansar Türkmen. Back: Buildings; Garassyzlyk Binasy and Bitaraplyk Binasy (Independence Monument and Neutrality Arch in Ashgabat); five stars and crescent moon. Solid security thread and solid security thread with demetalized 5TMB. Watermark: Soltan Sansar Türkmen; electrotype five stars, crescent moon, and 5; Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 126 x 63 mm.
a. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.01.2009.


TMB B17 (P24): 10 manat (US$3.50)
Red. Front: Map of Turkmenistan; coat of arms; Magtymguly Pyragy. Back: Türkmenistanyň Merkezi Banky (Turkmenistan central bank) headquarters building; five stars and crescent moon. Solid security thread and windowed security thread with demetalized 10 MANAT. Watermark: Magtymguly Pyragy; electrotype five stars, crescent moon, and 10; Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 132 x 66 mm.
a. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.01.2009.


TMB B18 (P25): 20 manat (US$7)
Purple. Front: Map of Turkmenistan; coat of arms; Görogly Beg Türkmen. Back: Ruhyyet Köşgi (Ruhyyet Palace) building; five stars and crescent moon. Solid security thread and windowed security thread with demetalized 20 MANAT. Watermark: Görogly Beg Türkmen; electrotype five stars, crescent moon, and 20; Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 138 x 69 mm.
a. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.01.2009.


TMB B19 (P26): 50 manat (US$18)
Green. Front: Holographic patch; map of Turkmenistan; coat of arms; Gorkut Ata Türkmen. Back: Türkmenistanyň Mejlisi (Turkmenistan National Assembly in Ashkhabat) building; five stars and crescent moon. Solid security thread and windowed security thread with demetalized 50 MANAT. Watermark: Gorkut Ata Türkmen; electrotype five stars, crescent moon, and 50; Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 144 x 72 mm.
a. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.01.2009.


TMB B20 (P27): 100 manat (US$35)
Blue. Front: Holographic patch; map of Turkmenistan; coat of arms; Oguz Han Türkmen. Back: Prezident Köşgi (Palace of Turkmenbashi in Ashgabat) building; five stars and crescent moon. Solid security thread and windowed security thread with demetalized 100 MANAT. Watermark: Oguz Han Türkmen; electrotype five stars, crescent moon, and 100; Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 75 mm.
a. 2009. Signature 4. Intro: 01.01.2009.


TMB B21 (P28): 500 manat (US$175)
Orange. Front: Holographic patch; map of Turkmenistan; coat of arms; President Saparmurat Niyazov. Back: Kipchak mosque in Ashgabat; five stars and crescent moon. Solid security thread and windowed security thread with demetalized 500 MANAT. Watermark: President Saparmurat Niyazov; electrotype five stars, crescent moon, and 500; Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 156 x 78 mm.
s. 2009. Signature 4. Unissued. A specimen was prepared, but this denomination never went into production.

Courtesy of Dmitriy Litvak.

Papua New Guinea 2003 commemorative confirmed



Based upon the 1973-2003 golden logo overprint in the lower right front, this paper 5-kina note from Papua New Guinea was apparently issued to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Bank of Papua New Guinea. The serial number prefix LWK are the initials of Leonard Wilson Kamit, governor of the bank since 1999.

Courtesy of David White.

Rwanda new date (01.02.2008) 1,000-franc note confirmed


1,000 francs (US$1.80), 01.02.2008. Like P31, but new date and new bank name on front.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Sweden new date (2007) 500-kronor confirmed


500 kronor (US$63.40), (200)7. Like P65, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Albania issues new 2,000-lek note and revised 1,000-lek note

On 29 December 2008, the Bank of Albania issued its first-ever 2,000-lek note. Also, on 14 November 2008, the bank issued a revised 1,000-lek note. Both are dated 2007 and apparently printed by TDLR based upon their use of Cornerstone watermarks.



1,000 lek (US$11.25)
Green. Front: Writer and priest Pjeter Bogdani; sun. Back: Catholic church in Vau i Dejës; Bogdani’s vision of the heliocentric system. Windowed security thread with demetalized 1000. Watermark: Pjeter Bogdani and Cornerstones. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 151 x 72 mm. 2007. Signatures unknown. Introduced 14.11.2008.



2,000 lek (US$22.50)
Purple. Front: MBRETI GENT (Gentius, last king of Illyria); three ancient coins; coat of arms. Back: Medicinal plant, gentiana lutea (great yellow gentian, or bitter root); AMFITEATRI I BUTRINTIT (ancient Butrint amphitheater near Sarandë). Hologram. Windowed security thread with demetalized 2000. Watermark: Gentius and Cornerstones. Printer: TDLR (w/o imprint). 160 x 72 mm. 2007. Signatures unknown. Introduced 29.12.2008.

Courtesy of Michael M. Reissner, Cleophas Elmakias Schockemohle, and banknoteshop@gmx.net.