2016
Mongolia new date (2016) 50-togrog note (B421d) confirmed
30 12, 2016 08:25 Category: Central Asia
Like B421c, but new date (2016). Prefix AU.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Malawi new 2,000-kwacha note (B163) confirmed
30 12, 2016 08:13 Category: Africa
According to a press release dated 11 November 2016, the Reserve Bank of Malawi introduced a new 2,000-kwacha note (B163) on 19 December 2016. The theme depicted on the new note is “Social Development (Tertiary Education)” in line with the running themes on the current Malawi Kwacha series and as such, the motif on the back of the banknote will depict the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) located in Thyolo District. The front of the banknote bears the portrait of Reverend John Chilembwe.
Courtesy of Sergio Oliveira.
Courtesy of Sergio Oliveira.
Zimbabwe new 2-dollar bond note (B190) confirmed
29 12, 2016 20:47 Category: Africa
B190 (PNL): 2 dollars
Green and brown. Front: Chiremba balancing rocks in Epworth; Zimbabwe bird on star as registration device. Back: Zimbabwe bird on star; Eternal Flame of Independence monument and Parliament House in Harare. Windowed security thread with demetalized RBZ. Watermark: Vertical RBZ electrotype. Printer: Unknown. 155 x 62 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 6. Prefix AA. Intro: 28.11.2016.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Philippines new sig/date (2016A) 1,000-peso note confirmed
29 12, 2016 20:46 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P211, but new date (2016A) and new signature (Rodrigo Duterte and Amando M. Tetangco, Jr.). Prefix R.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Philippines new date (2016A) 1,000-peso note confirmed
29 12, 2016 20:46 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P211, but new date (2016A). Prefix B.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
India new date (2016) 1,000-rupee note (B297b) confirmed
29 12, 2016 20:29 Category: South Asia
B297b: Like B297a, but new date (2016) and inset letter R.
Courtesy of Ludek Vostal.
Russia considering 100-ruble World Cup 2018 commemorative note
According to a press release dated 25 July 2016, the Russian security printer Goznak has prepared six different designs for a 100-ruble banknote to commemorate the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, to be held in various locations (Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Samara, Saransk, Sochi, Volgograd, Rostov-on-Don, Kaliningrad, Kazan, Yekaterinburg) from 14 June to 15 July. The commemorative note is expected to be printed on either polymer or a composite substrate to help distinguish it from regular issue banknotes. Printing is expected to begin in mid-2017 with the note introduced in 2018.
Venezuela receives shipment of new notes from Sweden
23 12, 2016 11:23 Category: South America
According to a PressTV article dated 19 December 2016, a plane carrying 272 crates of 500-bolivar notes arrived in Venezuela from Stockholm, Sweden on 18 December. Each crate contains 50,000 notes, for a total of 13.6 units. Two more planes are expected to arrive soon, bringing the total to 60 million units of this denomination. Given the plane's origin, it's likely that these notes were printed by Crane in what had been the Tumba Bruk facility until 2002.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and José Daniel Fernandez.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and José Daniel Fernandez.
Argentina new note designs unveiled for 2017 introduction
23 12, 2016 11:18 Category: South America
According to a Dia a Dia article dated 17 December 2016, these are the designs for the denominations the Banco Central de la Republica Argentina intends to introduce in 2017 to complete the new family of notes begun with the introduction in 2016 with 200- and 500-peso notes.
Courtesy of Alberto Manuel.
Courtesy of Alberto Manuel.
Macedonia new 200- and 2,000-denar notes (B215, B216) confirmed
23 12, 2016 09:29 Category: Europe
Two years after initially unveiling their designs, the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia introduced banknotes in the new denominations of 200- and 2,000-denar on 15 December 2016, and is withdrawing current 5,000-denar banknotes (B211) to rebalance the structure of banknotes in circulation. Commercial banks will replace 5,000-denar notes from 15 December 2016 up to 28 February 2017. As of 1 March 2017, they will be exchangeable only at the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia.
B215 (PNL): 200 денари (denari) (US$3.60)
Green, orange, yellow, and brown. Front: Leaf as registration device; bird; 7th-century medieval bow bronze fibula (brooch) found near Prilep; 6-7th century Christian terracotta icon from Vinica of warriors Joshua and Caleb wearing armor, holding spears and shield, illustrating Old Testament (The Book of Joshua) episode when Joshua stops the sun over Gibeon and the moon over the valley of Aijalon, before the victory of the Israelites over the Amorites. Back: Floral and star pattern from front facade of the Šarena (Aladža) Džamija in Tetovo and from marble floor tiles of 16th-century Ishak Çelebi Mosque in Bitola. Pearlescent stripe with 200 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 200. Watermark: Star, electrotype 200, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 144 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.
B216 (PNL): 2,000 денари (denari) (US$36)
Purple, orange, yellow, and green. Front (vertical): Early Christian mosaic as registration device; 7th-century bronze poppy cup pendant; woman wearing Macedonian bridal costume; green-to-blue SPARK element. Back: Christian mosaic decoration of two peacocks (birds of paradise) near the “source of life” inside 16th-century gilded vessel. Pearlescent stripe with 2000 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 2000. Watermark: Macedonian bridal costume, electrotype 2000, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 152 x 70 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.
Courtesy of James Pickering (e-worldbanknotes.com).
B215 (PNL): 200 денари (denari) (US$3.60)
Green, orange, yellow, and brown. Front: Leaf as registration device; bird; 7th-century medieval bow bronze fibula (brooch) found near Prilep; 6-7th century Christian terracotta icon from Vinica of warriors Joshua and Caleb wearing armor, holding spears and shield, illustrating Old Testament (The Book of Joshua) episode when Joshua stops the sun over Gibeon and the moon over the valley of Aijalon, before the victory of the Israelites over the Amorites. Back: Floral and star pattern from front facade of the Šarena (Aladža) Džamija in Tetovo and from marble floor tiles of 16th-century Ishak Çelebi Mosque in Bitola. Pearlescent stripe with 200 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 200. Watermark: Star, electrotype 200, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 144 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.
B216 (PNL): 2,000 денари (denari) (US$36)
Purple, orange, yellow, and green. Front (vertical): Early Christian mosaic as registration device; 7th-century bronze poppy cup pendant; woman wearing Macedonian bridal costume; green-to-blue SPARK element. Back: Christian mosaic decoration of two peacocks (birds of paradise) near the “source of life” inside 16th-century gilded vessel. Pearlescent stripe with 2000 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 2000. Watermark: Macedonian bridal costume, electrotype 2000, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 152 x 70 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.
Courtesy of James Pickering (e-worldbanknotes.com).
South Korea to introduce Winter Olympics commemorative note in 2017
22 12, 2016 11:42 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
According to an article on KOREA.net dated 20 December 2016, in 2017 the Bank of Korea plans to introduce 2.8 million new 2,000-won notes to commemorate the Winter Olympic Games to be held 9-25 February 2018 in PyeongChang. The front features athletes from seven winter sports events (biathlon, ice hockey, curling, speed skating, ski jumping, luge, and bobsled), whereas the back features a tiger and a pine tree from by Joseon-era artist Kim Hong-do’s painting, Songhamaenghodo.
Courtesy of Jeonghyun Park and Craig Eustace.
Courtesy of Jeonghyun Park and Craig Eustace.
Nepal new 20-rupee note (B289) confirmed
20 12, 2016 19:17 Category: South Asia
Like B281, but new signature, new date (2016), and new vignette of two deer on back.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Indonesia new banknote family confirmed
19 12, 2016 21:01 Category: East and Southeast Asia
On 19 December 2016, Bank Indonesia introduced seven new banknotes with enhanced security features and new designs of national heroes, traditional dances, and natural sites.
The new notes are the Rp 100,000, Rp 50,000, Rp 20,000, Rp 10,000, Rp 5,000 and Rp 2,000 and Rp 1,000.
All previously issued banknotes remain valid.
Courtesy of Teddy Wahidin.
The new notes are the Rp 100,000, Rp 50,000, Rp 20,000, Rp 10,000, Rp 5,000 and Rp 2,000 and Rp 1,000.
All previously issued banknotes remain valid.
Courtesy of Teddy Wahidin.
Denmark new date (2014) 50-krone note (B935e) confirmed
19 12, 2016 10:06 Category: Europe
B935e: Like B935d, but new date (2014). Prefix B3.
Courtesy of Frede Hansen.
Mexico new sig/date (07.12.2015) 50-peso note confirmed
18 12, 2016 18:10 Category: North America
Like P123A but new signatures, new date (7 DIC. 2015), and series S.
Courtesy of Alberto Rios.
Brazil new signature 100-real note (B879d) confirmed
17 12, 2016 15:26 Category: South America
B879d: Like B879c, but new signature. Prefix GG.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Egypt chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
The Egypt chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 49-page catalog covers notes issued by the National Bank of Egypt from 1899 to 1960, the Egyptian Government from 1916 to 2006, and the Central Bank of Egypt from 1961 to present. Revised 12 December 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
United Arab Republic chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
The United Arab Republic chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 5-page catalog covers notes of the Central Bank of the United Arab Republic dated 1958 and the Egyptian/UAR Government issues from 1958 to 1961. Revised 12 December 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
Indonesia new notes reported for introduction 19.12.2016
15 12, 2016 10:59 Category: East and Southeast Asia
According to an article in JakartaGlobe, on 19 December 2016, Bank Indonesia plans to introduce new banknotes denominated in 1000, 2000, 10000, 20000, and 50000 rupiah with new portraits and enhanced security features, such as color-shifting metallic foil security patches, latent images of BI logo, and tactile patterns.
Switzerland new 20-franc note due 17.05.2017, with 10-franc to follow in autumn
15 12, 2016 09:16 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 15 December 2016, the Swiss National Bank has announced that it will unveil the design of the new 20-franc note (B356) on 10 May 2017, with the notes entering circulation on 17 May 2017. The third denomination in the new family, the 10-franc note (B355) is slated for introduction in autumn 2017.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.
Saudi Arabia new notes (B136 - B140) unveiled for 26.12.2016 introduction
13 12, 2016 09:43 Category: Middle East
These notes are slated for introduction on 26 December 2016.
Colombia names new central bank governor to start 04.01.2017
12 12, 2016 13:25 Category: South America
According to a Spanish-language press release dated 12 December 2016, on 4 January 2017 Juan José Echavarría Soto will take over as Gerente General from José Darío Uribe Escobar, who has held the position since 4 January 2005. Expect new signature varieties to follow.
Courtesy of Camilo Uribe.
Courtesy of Camilo Uribe.
Venezuela to withdraw 100-bolívar notes by 24.12.2016
12 12, 2016 08:19 Category: South America
According to various sources, the central bank of Venezuela is withdrawing all 100-bolívar notes (worth US¢2 on the black market) in an attempt to stop transnational gangs from hoarding cash. Of the approximately 6 billion such notes in circulation, the government asserts that half is held by gangs abroad. The borders have been abruptly closed to prevent the gangs from repatriating the cash. Beginning 15 December 2016 when new notes denominated in 500 to 20,000 bolivars will be introduced, the public has just 10 days to exchange the old notes for new.
Kazakhstan new 10,000-tenge commemorative note (B145a) confirmed
12 12, 2016 08:11 Category: Central Asia
According to a press release dated 15 November 2016, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of independence, on 1 December 2016 the National Bank of Kazakhstan introduced a note featuring the portrait of the country's first, and so far only president, Nursultan Äbishuly Nazarbayev.
B145 (PNL): 10,000 tenge (US$30)
Violet and blue. Front: Outline of Kazakhstan; flag; Astana-Baiterek monument and large buildings in Astana; President Nursultan Äbishuly Nazarbayev wearing suit and tie; national emblem. Back (vertical): Mountain range; outline of Kazakhstan in SPARK; Kazakh Eli monument in Astana. Holographic stripe with demetalized signature of President Nursultan Abishuly Nazarbayev, Kazakh Eli monument, and Astana skyline. Solid security thread. Windowed security thread with demetalized sun and OH. Watermark: Nursultan Äbishuly Nazarbayev with electrotype 10000. Printer: (BFoNBK). 149 x 79 mm.
a. 2016. No signature. Prefix AA. Intro: 01.12.2016.
Courtesy of Ömer Yalçinkaya (eBay store
), Albert Vokhmin, Cleo Phas, Nosenko Igor, and Mark Irwin.
B145 (PNL): 10,000 tenge (US$30)
Violet and blue. Front: Outline of Kazakhstan; flag; Astana-Baiterek monument and large buildings in Astana; President Nursultan Äbishuly Nazarbayev wearing suit and tie; national emblem. Back (vertical): Mountain range; outline of Kazakhstan in SPARK; Kazakh Eli monument in Astana. Holographic stripe with demetalized signature of President Nursultan Abishuly Nazarbayev, Kazakh Eli monument, and Astana skyline. Solid security thread. Windowed security thread with demetalized sun and OH. Watermark: Nursultan Äbishuly Nazarbayev with electrotype 10000. Printer: (BFoNBK). 149 x 79 mm.
a. 2016. No signature. Prefix AA. Intro: 01.12.2016.
Courtesy of Ömer Yalçinkaya (eBay store
Saudi note issuer changes name to Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority
09 12, 2016 08:33 Category: Middle East
According to a press release dated 4 December 2016, "the name of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency has been changed to the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority, with effect from the date of this announcement. The acronym SAMA remains unchanged. All existing agreements, obligations and contracts under the previous name of SAMA will continue to remain in force."
Furthermore, according to an article on Albawba.com dated 8 December 2016, SAMA plans to unveil the designs of a new banknote family on Tuesday 13 December 2016.
Courtesy of Morad H. Kamvar and Cleo Phas.
Furthermore, according to an article on Albawba.com dated 8 December 2016, SAMA plans to unveil the designs of a new banknote family on Tuesday 13 December 2016.
Courtesy of Morad H. Kamvar and Cleo Phas.
Brazil new signature 10-real note (B876c) confirmed
09 12, 2016 08:29 Category: South America
B876c: Like B876b, but new signatures (Henrique Meirelles and Ilan Goldfajn). Prefix EH.
Courtesy of Takis Kouvatseas.
China chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
09 12, 2016 05:57 Category: The Banknote Book | East and Southeast Asia
The China chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 172-page catalog covers Imperial Bank of China, Commercial Bank of China, Bank of China (forex), National Commercial Bank, National Industrial Bank of China, Bank of Agriculture and Commerce, Tah Chung Bank, China Silk and Tea Industrial Bank, Agricultural and Industrial Bank of China, Land Bank of China, Farmers Bank of China, People's Bank of China, Greater Japan Imperial Government, Jidong Bank, Chanan Bank, Mengjiang Bank, Federal Reserve Bank, Hua Hsing Commercial Bank, Central Reserve Bank of China, Greater Japan Southern Expeditionary Army Headquarters, Red Army Headquarters, Banque de l’Indo-Chine, Chinese Engineering & Mining, Deutsch-Asiatische Bank, Netherlands Trading Society, Credit Commercial Sino-Français, and Bank of East Asia. Revised 29.12.2018.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
Iran proposes replacing rial with toman as new currency unit
08 12, 2016 08:22 Category: Middle East
According to an article on DW dated 7 December 2016, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's government proposed changing the name and denomination of the country's official currency from the rial to the toman. With 1 toman equal 10 rials, this would effectively remove a single zero from prices, making transactions slightly easier to calculate. A US dollar would currently buy 3,200 tomans at official exchange rates, and 3,900 tomans at unofficial rates.
Courtesy of Rok Jarc.
Courtesy of Rok Jarc.
Canada chooses Viola Desmond to be face of 10-dollar note in late 2018
08 12, 2016 08:19 Category: North America
According to a press release dated 8 December 2016, "Governor Stephen S. Poloz, Minister of Finance Bill Morneau and Minister of Status of Women Patty Hajdu today announced that Viola Desmond will be featured on a new $10 bank note, expected in late 2018. This will mark the first time that a portrait of a Canadian woman will be featured on a regularly circulating Bank of Canada note."
Desmond, an icon of the human rights and freedoms movement in Canada, was selected from a short list of five iconic Canadian women by Minister Morneau, in accordance with the Bank of Canada Act. A successful Nova Scotia businesswoman, she is known for defiantly refusing to leave a whites-only area of a movie theatre in 1946. She was subsequently jailed, convicted and fined. Her court case was the first known legal challenge against racial segregation brought forth by a Black woman in Canada.
“Today is about recognizing the incalculable contribution that all women have had and continue to have in shaping Canada’s story. Viola Desmond’s own story reminds all of us that big change can start with moments of dignity and bravery,” said Minister Morneau. “She represents courage, strength and determination—qualities we should all aspire to every day.”
Joining Governor Poloz and Ministers Morneau and Hajdu at the Canadian Museum of History for the announcement was one of Viola Desmond’s sisters, Wanda Robson.
“It’s a big day to have a woman on a bank note, but it’s an especially big day to have your big sister on a bank note. Our family is extremely proud and honoured,” said Robson, who was instrumental in making Desmond’s story widely known.
The selection of Viola Desmond is the final step in the #bankNOTEable campaign to choose an iconic Canadian woman to appear on this new bank note. Last spring, an open call for nominations launched by the Bank yielded more than 26,300 submissions from across Canada, resulting in 461 eligible candidates. An independent Advisory Council composed of eminent Canadian academic, sport, cultural and thought leaders narrowed down the list to five candidates for consideration by the Minister of Finance.
“Canadians were extremely engaged, which made our consultation process very successful,” said Governor Poloz. “Through this exciting process, with every mouse click or turn of a book’s page, with every kitchen table discussion or classroom debate, Canadians learned more about the iconic women who built Canada.”
Minister Hajdu said, “Many extraordinary women could have been on this next bank note, and the search and decision-making process were extremely thorough. The choice of Viola Desmond reminds us that Canada is a diverse country where everyone deserves equality and respect.”
Desmond, an icon of the human rights and freedoms movement in Canada, was selected from a short list of five iconic Canadian women by Minister Morneau, in accordance with the Bank of Canada Act. A successful Nova Scotia businesswoman, she is known for defiantly refusing to leave a whites-only area of a movie theatre in 1946. She was subsequently jailed, convicted and fined. Her court case was the first known legal challenge against racial segregation brought forth by a Black woman in Canada.
“Today is about recognizing the incalculable contribution that all women have had and continue to have in shaping Canada’s story. Viola Desmond’s own story reminds all of us that big change can start with moments of dignity and bravery,” said Minister Morneau. “She represents courage, strength and determination—qualities we should all aspire to every day.”
Joining Governor Poloz and Ministers Morneau and Hajdu at the Canadian Museum of History for the announcement was one of Viola Desmond’s sisters, Wanda Robson.
“It’s a big day to have a woman on a bank note, but it’s an especially big day to have your big sister on a bank note. Our family is extremely proud and honoured,” said Robson, who was instrumental in making Desmond’s story widely known.
The selection of Viola Desmond is the final step in the #bankNOTEable campaign to choose an iconic Canadian woman to appear on this new bank note. Last spring, an open call for nominations launched by the Bank yielded more than 26,300 submissions from across Canada, resulting in 461 eligible candidates. An independent Advisory Council composed of eminent Canadian academic, sport, cultural and thought leaders narrowed down the list to five candidates for consideration by the Minister of Finance.
“Canadians were extremely engaged, which made our consultation process very successful,” said Governor Poloz. “Through this exciting process, with every mouse click or turn of a book’s page, with every kitchen table discussion or classroom debate, Canadians learned more about the iconic women who built Canada.”
Minister Hajdu said, “Many extraordinary women could have been on this next bank note, and the search and decision-making process were extremely thorough. The choice of Viola Desmond reminds us that Canada is a diverse country where everyone deserves equality and respect.”
Venezuela plans to introduce 6 new notes starting 15.12.2016
07 12, 2016 14:14 Category: South America
According to a Spanish-language press release dated 7 December 2016, Banco Central de Venezuela intends to introduce six new banknotes (500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, and 20000 bolivars) and three coins (10, 50, and 100 bolivars). The denominations will be introduced in a staggered progression, starting with the 500-bolivar note on 15 December 2016, followed by the 5,000-bolivar note.
Courtesy of Cleo Has.
Courtesy of Cleo Has.
Colombia new 10,000-peso note confirmed
07 12, 2016 14:13 Category: South America
According to a press release, Colombia's Banco de la Repüblica plans to introduce a new 10,000-peso note on 7 December 2016, thereby completing the new family of notes.
Red. Front: Denomination in dark red-to-light red OVI; BRC as registration device; water lily flower as registration device; Rana Arborícola (Hypsiboas granosus) tree frog; anthropologist Virginia Gutiérrez de Pineda standing, holding book; Virginia Gutiérrez de Pineda close-up. Back: Leaves; snake; turtle; caiman; Amazon River; fish; man holding pole in canoe; Victoria regia water lily flower; text from Virginia Gutiérrez’s book Familia y cultura en Colombia; Liberty head bank seal. Fuschia-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and flowers. Watermark: Virginia Gutiérrez and electrotype 10. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 138 x 66 mm.
Red. Front: Denomination in dark red-to-light red OVI; BRC as registration device; water lily flower as registration device; Rana Arborícola (Hypsiboas granosus) tree frog; anthropologist Virginia Gutiérrez de Pineda standing, holding book; Virginia Gutiérrez de Pineda close-up. Back: Leaves; snake; turtle; caiman; Amazon River; fish; man holding pole in canoe; Victoria regia water lily flower; text from Virginia Gutiérrez’s book Familia y cultura en Colombia; Liberty head bank seal. Fuschia-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and flowers. Watermark: Virginia Gutiérrez and electrotype 10. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 138 x 66 mm.
Philippines new date (2016F) 100-peso note confirmed
07 12, 2016 08:42 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P208, but new date (2016F). Prefix CY.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Kyrgyzstan modified 200-, 500-, and 1,000-som notes (B230-B232) reported for 01.01.2017 introduction
06 12, 2016 09:27 Category: Central Asia
According to a Russian language press release dated 6 December 2016, the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic plans to introduce three new banknotes on 1 January 2017. These notes are like the preceding issues, but with revised portraits at left front, round ornament at center front that reveals hidden image of COM when viewed with backlighting (TDLR’s Mask security feature), and the year 2016 at lower right back.
According to an article on KABAR.kg, the bank has awarded the contract to print modified notes of 20, 50, 100, and 5,000 som to Oberthur Technologies, a French company. No word yet on when these denominations will be issued.
Courtesy of Vladimir Buravlev and Cleo Has.
According to an article on KABAR.kg, the bank has awarded the contract to print modified notes of 20, 50, 100, and 5,000 som to Oberthur Technologies, a French company. No word yet on when these denominations will be issued.
Courtesy of Vladimir Buravlev and Cleo Has.
Seychelles new banknote family (B419-B422) introduced 05.12.2016
05 12, 2016 07:19 Category: Africa
According to a press release dated 3 November 2016, in December 2016 the Central Bank of Seychelles will launch a new family of banknotes and coins to commemorate 40 years of Seychelles’ independence, with the theme “Seychelles’ Unique Biodiversity – the backbone of our economy.”
Courtesy of Ömer Yalçinkaya (eBay store), Alex Zlotin, and Igor Tereshkov.
Courtesy of Ömer Yalçinkaya (eBay store
Venezuela announces six new banknotes to be introduced starting 15.12.2016
04 12, 2016 21:03 Category: South America
According to a Spanish-language press release, the Central Bank of Venezuela intends to gradually introduce six new banknotes and three coins beginning with a 500-bolívar note on 15 December 2016.
The circulation of the new notes of Bs. 500, Bs. 1,000, Bs. 2,000, Bs. 5,000, Bs. 10,000 and Bs. 20,000 is a decision of the monetary authority, in coordination with the National Executive, to optimize the Current monetary cone. The BCV conducted technical studies, which also employ other central banks, to determine the optimal set of denominations required by the national economy. The coins that will also begin to circulate during the indicated period are those of Bs. 10, Bs. 50 and Bs. 100.
The expansion of the monetary system will make the payment system more efficient, facilitate trade and minimize the costs of production, replenishment and transfer of monetary species, which will result in benefits for banking, trade and the general population.
The six new banknotes complement the current family and will coexist with those that are in circulation. They will be distributed progressively by the BCV, at its headquarters in Caracas and Maracaibo, and through the banking system throughout the country.
Courtesy of Dario Silva.
The circulation of the new notes of Bs. 500, Bs. 1,000, Bs. 2,000, Bs. 5,000, Bs. 10,000 and Bs. 20,000 is a decision of the monetary authority, in coordination with the National Executive, to optimize the Current monetary cone. The BCV conducted technical studies, which also employ other central banks, to determine the optimal set of denominations required by the national economy. The coins that will also begin to circulate during the indicated period are those of Bs. 10, Bs. 50 and Bs. 100.
The expansion of the monetary system will make the payment system more efficient, facilitate trade and minimize the costs of production, replenishment and transfer of monetary species, which will result in benefits for banking, trade and the general population.
The six new banknotes complement the current family and will coexist with those that are in circulation. They will be distributed progressively by the BCV, at its headquarters in Caracas and Maracaibo, and through the banking system throughout the country.
Courtesy of Dario Silva.
Dutch printer Joh. Enschedé to quit banknote production
03 12, 2016 08:57 Category: Miscellaneous | Europe
According to reports, Dutch security printer Joh. Enschedé plans to quit banknote production due to overcapacity in the sector, and will instead focus on printing stamps and visa documents.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Philippines new date (2016G) 20-peso note confirmed
02 12, 2016 08:09 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P206, but new date (2016G). Prefix M.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
India new 1,000-rupee note reported
02 12, 2016 08:04 Category: South Asia
Here is an image reportedly of the new Indian 1,000-rupee note. Some speculate that this is a modified image of the new 2,000-rupee note based upon the number of tactile lines at left and right front. Time will tell.
Courtesy of Shibu Paul.
Nicaragua new 1,000-córdoba commemorative note (B512) confirmed introduced 01.12.2016
02 12, 2016 07:51 Category: Central America
According to a press release, a new 1,000-córdoba note was issued to ease high-value transactions. A commemorative design was introduced 1 December 2016 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of poet Rubén Darío, and a regular issue will be introduced 2 January 2017.
Courtesy of Cleo Has and Francisco Orozco.
Courtesy of Cleo Has and Francisco Orozco.
Norway new date (2015) 50-krone note confirmed
01 12, 2016 17:44 Category: Europe
Like P46, but new date (2015).
Courtesy of Janus Juraschek.
Venezuela new 500- and 5,000-bolívar note reported for January 2017 intro
01 12, 2016 07:29 Category: South America
According to an article on Bloomberg/Quint dated 1 December 2016, Venezuela will introduce new 500- and 5,000-bolívar notes mid-January 2017, with additional denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 10,000 and 20,000 bolívars to enter circulation in the first half of 2017. The exact timing of the introduction and the makeup of the denomination structure has been the subject of conflicting rumors as of late, but it's clear that Venezuela must do something to address the collapsing value of the currency.
Courtesy of Rok Jarc.
Courtesy of Rok Jarc.
Norway new sig/date (2014) 100-krone note confirmed
30 11, 2016 15:03 Category: Europe
Like P49, but new signatures (Øystein Olsen and Trond Eklund) and new date (2014).
Sierra Leone new date (04.08.2013) 5,000-leone note (B127b) confirmed
30 11, 2016 12:43 Category: Africa
Like B127a, but new date (4th AUGUST 2013). Prefix GC.
Courtesy of Jan De Roeck.
Sierra Leone new date (04.08.2013) 1,000-leone note (B125b) confirmed
30 11, 2016 12:42 Category: Africa
Like B125a, but new date (4th AUGUST 2013). Prefix DY.
Courtesy of Jan De Roeck.
Colombia new 2,000-peso note confirmed
30 11, 2016 07:43 Category: South America
2,000 pesos
Blue. Front: Denomination in dark blue-to-light blue OVI; BRC as registration device; bird (from Pérez’s paiting “Las Monjas y El Cardenal”) as registration device; lechoso (Perebea xanthochyma) tree leaves and fruit in cooper-to-green OVI; 13 de junio; artist Débora Arango Pérez standing; La bailarina Guillermina; Débora Arango Pérez close-up. Back: Caño Cristales, the beautiful river of five colors, located in the Sierra de la Macarena; various birds in flight; text of an interview of Débora Arango Pérez from the book Débora en plural. Liberty head bank seal. Fuschia-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and birds. Watermark: Débora Arango Pérez and electrotype 2. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 128 x 66 mm.
a. 19 DE AGOSTO DE 2015. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Prefix AA. Intro: 29.11.2016.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Norway new date (2015) 500-krone note confirmed
29 11, 2016 07:15 Category: Europe
Like P51, but new date (2015).
Courtesy of Marius Rosca (IBNS 11437).
Kazakhstan new 1,000-tenge note (B146a) confirmed
29 11, 2016 07:07 Category: Central Asia
B146: Like B143, but without signature, and other minor modifications to the appearance of the bank’s name on front/back.
Courtesy of Ömer Yalçinkaya (eBay store
Zimbabwe new 2- and 5-dollar bond notes introduced 28.11.2016
28 11, 2016 15:38 Category: Africa
BBC News has a great video here showing the new bond notes in use by the public in Zimbabwe.
According to a press release dated 26 November 2016:
PRESS STATEMENT ON THE INTRODUCTION OF BOND NOTES
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe is pleased to advise the nation of the introduction of bond notes with effect from Monday, 28 November 2016. The bond notes will be released into the market through normal banking channels in small denominations of $2 and $5 to fund export incentives of up to 5% which will be paid to exporters of goods and services and diaspora remittances. The initial release of bond notes shall be in an amount of $10 million in denominations of $2 and $2 million in $1 bond coins. The features of the bond notes will be released simultaneously with the bond notes.
The use of bond notes within the multi-currency exchange system which are anchored to the US$200 million facility will operate along the same lines as bond coins. They are pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. The banking public is advised that no new accounts will be opened as the bond notes would be deposited into existing US dollar accounts.
In line with the Bank’s thrust to promote a less cash society through the use of plastic money, withdrawal limits of bond notes have been set at a maximum of $50 per day and a maximum of $150 per week. This measure is in tandem with the objective of the Bank to release bond notes into the market on a measured basis which is critical to mitigate against abuse of bond notes.
The Reserve Bank has engaged and agreed with the Retailers Association of Zimbabwe, fuel companies, representatives of the various business associations and the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe on the use and acceptability of bond notes as a medium of exchange in the country.
The Reserve Bank would like to request the public to report any form of malpractice and abuse of bond notes including but not limited to hoarding, defacing, disfiguring or unlawful use of notes and manipulation by person or banks or currency dealers or traders in connection with the use of bond notes.
Such malpractices should be reported to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe on toll free numbers Telone – 08006009 and Econet – 08086770.
Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe 26 November 2016
Courtesy of Sherwin Wang.
According to a press release dated 26 November 2016:
PRESS STATEMENT ON THE INTRODUCTION OF BOND NOTES
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe is pleased to advise the nation of the introduction of bond notes with effect from Monday, 28 November 2016. The bond notes will be released into the market through normal banking channels in small denominations of $2 and $5 to fund export incentives of up to 5% which will be paid to exporters of goods and services and diaspora remittances. The initial release of bond notes shall be in an amount of $10 million in denominations of $2 and $2 million in $1 bond coins. The features of the bond notes will be released simultaneously with the bond notes.
The use of bond notes within the multi-currency exchange system which are anchored to the US$200 million facility will operate along the same lines as bond coins. They are pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. The banking public is advised that no new accounts will be opened as the bond notes would be deposited into existing US dollar accounts.
In line with the Bank’s thrust to promote a less cash society through the use of plastic money, withdrawal limits of bond notes have been set at a maximum of $50 per day and a maximum of $150 per week. This measure is in tandem with the objective of the Bank to release bond notes into the market on a measured basis which is critical to mitigate against abuse of bond notes.
The Reserve Bank has engaged and agreed with the Retailers Association of Zimbabwe, fuel companies, representatives of the various business associations and the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe on the use and acceptability of bond notes as a medium of exchange in the country.
The Reserve Bank would like to request the public to report any form of malpractice and abuse of bond notes including but not limited to hoarding, defacing, disfiguring or unlawful use of notes and manipulation by person or banks or currency dealers or traders in connection with the use of bond notes.
Such malpractices should be reported to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe on toll free numbers Telone – 08006009 and Econet – 08086770.
Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe 26 November 2016
Courtesy of Sherwin Wang.
Colombia new date (01.08.2014) 2,000-peso note confirmed
28 11, 2016 10:35 Category: South America
Like P457, but new date (1o DE AGOSTO DE 2014). Intro: 22.08.2016.
Courtesy of Andres Collazos.
Bhutan new 1,000-ngultrum commemorative (B224) note reportedly introduced 21.09.2016
28 11, 2016 06:55 Category: South Asia | Commemorative
The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan issued a 1,000-ngultrum banknote to commemorate the birth of His Royal Highness The Gyalsey, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, which took place on 5 February 2016. 3,420,000 notes were printed and released into circulation beginning 21 September 2016.
Courtesy of Dennis Zammit and Phub Dorji (
).
Courtesy of Dennis Zammit and Phub Dorji (
South Sudan dispels rumors of new banknotes
26 11, 2016 10:53 Category: Africa
According to a report on eyeRadio dated 25 November 2016, Kornelio Koriom, governor of the Central Bank of South Sudan, said the bank has no intention of printing, replacing, or changing the current South Sudanese banknotes other than to replace worn and damaged notes.
Argentina new 200-peso note confirmed introduced 26.10.2016
26 11, 2016 10:18 Category: South America
According to a press release, the Banco Central de la República Argentina introduced a new 200-peso note on 26 October 2016. The cotton paper note depicts a Southern Right Whale and is the second in a new family of notes.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online) and Cleo Phas.
Ethiopia new date (2015) 50-birr note (B333g) confirmed
25 11, 2016 09:31 Category: Africa
B333g: Like B333f, but new date (2007/2015). Prefix BV.
Courtesy of Kevin Warfel.
Philippines new date (2016G) 50-peso note confirmed
25 11, 2016 07:17 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P207, but new date (2016G). Prefix GA.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Mexico new sig/date (07.12.2015) 500-peso note confirmed
25 11, 2016 07:14 Category: North America
Like P126, but new signatures and new date (7 DIC. 2015). Series AT.
Courtesy of Alberto Rios.
Mexico new sig/date (27.10.2014) 200-peso note confirmed
25 11, 2016 07:13 Category: North America
Like P125, but new signatures and new date (27 OCT. 2014). Series AX.
Courtesy of Alberto Rios.
Press release: Track & Price announces World Paper Money software upgrade
22 11, 2016 17:30 Category: Miscellaneous
[Owen W. Linzmayer, editor: I'm happy to publish the following press release for Track & Price because The Banknote Book relies heavily on this unique service to provide timely, accurate, and inclusive pricing history based upon actual sales. Our editors interpret this information and distill it down to a snapshot of values listed in The Banknote Book, but Track & Price is the only place you can see the big picture.]
Naples, FL- 22 November 2016
Track & Price, a one-of-a-kind collection of software tools, has released an updated software version of World Paper Money. Track & Price is used by paper money collectors, dealers, and auction houses globally to assess the value of paper money. This easy-to-use and highly accurate software helps even amateur collectors seamlessly maneuver through millions of auction results. Giving you complete control, Track & Price conveniently lets you search using your local language and currency, sorting the results by grade, note type, auction date, price, individual catalog number, and more!
Track & Price makes sense of huge price swings, with actual auction results, by using its sophisticated prorating algorithm. This software is the only constantly updated World Paper Money auction report! 500 to 2,000 real auction results are added daily from across the world. To date, Track & Price offers more than 1 million useful results. Don’t waste any more time searching through pricing catalogs that are consistently off by many orders of magnitude, both wildly underpriced and overpriced. Finally, there is no need to spend hours searching through the SCWPM as we make it easy for you to input the details of any given note for the most accurate pricing results.
Estimating the price of multiple note lots has also never been easier! 40-50% of auction lots consist of multiple notes. Track & Price breaks down these multiple note auction lots and prorates their relative values based on the final auction price, including the buyer premium. T&P allows you to effortlessly search specific parameters to get actual values, which eliminates estimating and guessing! You can also refine your searches by note variety (i.e. P1, P1a, or P1b, etc.).
Track & Price is a highly trusted tool used by auction houses throughout the world. The U.S. software is used by all the major auction companies and has been providing U.S. auction results and census data for auction houses, dealers, and collectors since 2001. World Paper Money is used by Archives International, The Banknote Book, Heritage, Lyn Knight Auctions, Spink, Stack’s Bowers, and other market leaders.
We invite you to try a free trial of Track & Price. Simply go to http://trackandprice.com/ and select the software you would like to use for the next 30 days! Questions? Please call Sandy Bashover at (239) 384-9674 or write trackandprice@yahoo.com.
Naples, FL- 22 November 2016
Track & Price, a one-of-a-kind collection of software tools, has released an updated software version of World Paper Money. Track & Price is used by paper money collectors, dealers, and auction houses globally to assess the value of paper money. This easy-to-use and highly accurate software helps even amateur collectors seamlessly maneuver through millions of auction results. Giving you complete control, Track & Price conveniently lets you search using your local language and currency, sorting the results by grade, note type, auction date, price, individual catalog number, and more!
Track & Price makes sense of huge price swings, with actual auction results, by using its sophisticated prorating algorithm. This software is the only constantly updated World Paper Money auction report! 500 to 2,000 real auction results are added daily from across the world. To date, Track & Price offers more than 1 million useful results. Don’t waste any more time searching through pricing catalogs that are consistently off by many orders of magnitude, both wildly underpriced and overpriced. Finally, there is no need to spend hours searching through the SCWPM as we make it easy for you to input the details of any given note for the most accurate pricing results.
Estimating the price of multiple note lots has also never been easier! 40-50% of auction lots consist of multiple notes. Track & Price breaks down these multiple note auction lots and prorates their relative values based on the final auction price, including the buyer premium. T&P allows you to effortlessly search specific parameters to get actual values, which eliminates estimating and guessing! You can also refine your searches by note variety (i.e. P1, P1a, or P1b, etc.).
Track & Price is a highly trusted tool used by auction houses throughout the world. The U.S. software is used by all the major auction companies and has been providing U.S. auction results and census data for auction houses, dealers, and collectors since 2001. World Paper Money is used by Archives International, The Banknote Book, Heritage, Lyn Knight Auctions, Spink, Stack’s Bowers, and other market leaders.
We invite you to try a free trial of Track & Price. Simply go to http://trackandprice.com/ and select the software you would like to use for the next 30 days! Questions? Please call Sandy Bashover at (239) 384-9674 or write trackandprice@yahoo.com.
Norway new note family unveiled; intro reported for mid-2017
22 11, 2016 07:43 Category: Europe
Norges Bank has unveiled the designs of the new note series, the first two denominations (100 and 200 kroner) of which will be introduced on 30 May 2017.
Courtesy of Cleo Has.
Courtesy of Cleo Has.
Philippines new date (2016H) 100-peso note confirmed
21 11, 2016 10:05 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P208/PNL, but new date (2016H). Prefix C.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Dominican Republic new date (2015) 1,000-peso dominicano note confirmed
21 11, 2016 07:02 Category: Caribbean
Like P193, but new date (2015). Prefix BP.
Courtesy of Janus Juraschek.
Dominican Republic new date (2015) 500-peso dominicano note confirmed
21 11, 2016 07:01 Category: Caribbean
Like P192, but new date (2015). Prefix CJ.
Courtesy of Janus Juraschek.
Iraq new 500-dinar note (B353) confirmed
21 11, 2016 06:49 Category: Middle East
B353: Like B348, but with Kurdish text on back.
Courtesy of Robert Mol.
Philippines new date (2015) 20-peso note confirmed
19 11, 2016 14:25 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P206, but new date (2015). Prefix ER.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Philippines new date (2015A) 20-peso note confirmed
19 11, 2016 14:24 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P206, but new date (2015A). Prefix ER, MG.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Philippines new date (2016G) 1,000-peso note confirmed
19 11, 2016 14:22 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P211, but new date (2016 G). Prefix BU.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Greenland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
17 11, 2016 15:05 Category: The Banknote Book | Europe
The Greenland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 20-page catalog covers notes issued by Den Kongelige Grønlandske Handel (The Royal Greenland Trading Company) from 1803 to 1953, Styrelsen af Kolonierne i Grønland (Administration of Colonies in Greenland) in 1913, and Grønlands Styrelse (Greenland Administration) from 1926 to 1945. Published 18 November 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
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If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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Colombia new 2,000-peso note reported for 29.11.2016 introduction
17 11, 2016 14:47 Category: South America
According to Banco de la Repüblica, a new 2,000-peso note will be introduced on 29 November 2016.
Courtesy of Camilo Uribe, Cleo Phas, and Noel José Cuenca.
Courtesy of Camilo Uribe, Cleo Phas, and Noel José Cuenca.
Honduras new sig/date (12.06.2014) 2-lempira note confirmed
17 11, 2016 13:40 Category: Central America
Like P97, but new signatures and new date (12 DE JUNIO DE 2014). Prefix AB.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Bahamas new CRISP Evolution 10-dollar note (B352a) confirmed
14 11, 2016 08:58 Category: North America
According to a press release dated 26 September 2016, on 28 September 2016 the Central Bank of The Bahamas launched a new 10-dollar note, the first in its newest family of CRISP Evolution (Counterfeit Resistant Integrated Security Product) banknotes, with other denominations to be introduced over the next few years.
The new note bears some of the same design elements as the preceding issue (B340), but with a vertical orientation for the back, and enhanced security features. The note is the first non-commemorative banknote in the world bearing De La Rue's Active, a lenticular thread visible on the back of the note (Poland BNP820 with Active was introduced on 20 April 2016). The note also has subsidiary features, such as the use of raster graphics throughout the banknote, a SPARK Orbital butterfly, and the installation of tactile bars for the visually-impaired.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Yuri111 (yuri111
).
The new note bears some of the same design elements as the preceding issue (B340), but with a vertical orientation for the back, and enhanced security features. The note is the first non-commemorative banknote in the world bearing De La Rue's Active, a lenticular thread visible on the back of the note (Poland BNP820 with Active was introduced on 20 April 2016). The note also has subsidiary features, such as the use of raster graphics throughout the banknote, a SPARK Orbital butterfly, and the installation of tactile bars for the visually-impaired.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Yuri111 (yuri111
Belize new sig/date (01.05.2016) 100-dollar note (B329c) confirmed
13 11, 2016 10:50 Category: Central America
Like B329b, but new date (1st. MAY 2016) and new signatures. Prefix DB.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Yuri111 (yuri111
Sweden new sig/date (2015) 500-krone note confirmed
13 11, 2016 09:04 Category: Europe
Like P73, but new date (2015) and new signatures (Susanne Eberstein/Stefan Ingves).
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Sweden new sig/date (2015) 100-krone note confirmed
13 11, 2016 09:03 Category: Europe
Like P71, but new date (2015) and new signatures (Susanne Eberstein/Stefan Ingves).
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Belize new sig/date (01.05.2016) 10-dollar note (B326e) confirmed
13 11, 2016 08:41 Category: Central America
Like B326d, but new date (1st. MAY 2016), new signatures, and new printer imprint (Printer: OBERTHUR fiduciaire). Prefix DL.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Yuri111 (yuri111
Belize new sig/date (01.12.2015) 5-dollar note (B325f) confirmed
13 11, 2016 08:21 Category: Central America
Like B325e, but new date (1st. DECEMBER 2015) and new signatures. Prefix DT.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Yuri111 (yuri111
Philippines new date (2016A) 100-peso note confirmed
13 11, 2016 08:04 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P208/PNL, but new date (2016A). Prefix AU.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Philippines new date (2016F) 20-peso note confirmed
13 11, 2016 08:03 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P206, but new date (2016F). Prefix CG.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Philippines new date (2016 and 2016H) 50-peso notes confirmed
12 11, 2016 08:20 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P207, but new dates (2016 and 2016H).
Courtesy of Sing Chia Tan (
Dominican Republic new sig/date (2015) 50-peso dominicano note confirmed
10 11, 2016 11:40 Category: Caribbean
Like P189, but new date (2015) and slightly different signature of MINISTERO DE HACIENDA at right.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Hong Kong Bank of China new sig/date (01.07.2015) 100-dollar note (B818e) confirmed
10 11, 2016 11:12 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B818e: Like B818d, but new date and new signature. Prefix KQ.
Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.
India new 2,000-rupee note (B299) confirmed
10 11, 2016 10:12 Category: South Asia
B299 (PNL): 2,000 rupees (US$30)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Swachh Bharat logo (Gandhi’s eyeglasses); language panel; Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission space probe). 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI, 2000, भारत (India). Watermark: Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype vertical 2000. Printer: (ISP). 166 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: None, R. Intro: 10.11.2016.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim and Dinyar Madon.
Colombia new 5,000-peso note confirmed introduced 09.11.2016
09 11, 2016 14:02 Category: South America
According to a press release, the Banco de la República introduced this new 5,000-peso note into circulation on 9 November 2016.
5,000 pesos (US$2.75)
Brown. Front: Denomination in dark brown-to-light brown OVI; BRC as registration device; Abejorro (bumblebee) as registration device; Puya plant in cooper-to-green OVI; poet José Asunción Silva. Back: Mammel walking on four legs with Andrean condor flying above mountainous landscape of Páramos de Colombia Puentes de Agua with frailejón plants; Abejorro (bumblebee); José Asunción Silva’s poem “Melancolía;” Liberty head bank seal. Fuschia-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and bumblebees. Watermark: José Asunción Silva and electrotype 5. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 133 x 66 mm.
a. 19 DE AGOSTO DE 2015. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Prefix AA. Intro: 09.11.2016.
Courtesy of Noel Jose Cuenca and Camilo Uribe.
5,000 pesos (US$2.75)
Brown. Front: Denomination in dark brown-to-light brown OVI; BRC as registration device; Abejorro (bumblebee) as registration device; Puya plant in cooper-to-green OVI; poet José Asunción Silva. Back: Mammel walking on four legs with Andrean condor flying above mountainous landscape of Páramos de Colombia Puentes de Agua with frailejón plants; Abejorro (bumblebee); José Asunción Silva’s poem “Melancolía;” Liberty head bank seal. Fuschia-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and bumblebees. Watermark: José Asunción Silva and electrotype 5. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 133 x 66 mm.
a. 19 DE AGOSTO DE 2015. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Prefix AA. Intro: 09.11.2016.
Courtesy of Noel Jose Cuenca and Camilo Uribe.
Mauritius new date (2013) 100-rupee note (B422g) confirmed
09 11, 2016 13:54 Category: Africa
B422g: Like B422f, but new date (2013). Prefix CY.
Courtesy of Rex Hilligan.
West African States new sig/date (2016) 1,000-franc note (B121Dp) confirmed
09 11, 2016 13:01 Category: Africa
Like B121Do, but new date (2016) and new signature 42.
Courtesy of Kevin Warfel.
Norway new date (2014) 200-krone note confirmed
08 11, 2016 14:00 Category: Europe
Like P50, but new date (2014).
Courtesy of Stefaan Rombaut.
India new 500- and 2,000-rupee notes (B298, B299) to be introduced 10.11.2016
08 11, 2016 09:22 Category: South Asia
In a surprise move, India demonetized all 500- and 1,000-rupee notes as of 9 November 2016, “to tackle counterfeiting Indian banknotes, to effectively nullify black money hoarded in cash, and curb funding of terrorism with fake notes.” The old notes can be deposited at any RBI branch with valid proof of identity. The first of the “Mahatma Gandhi (New)” series to be issued are 500- and 2,000-rupee notes.
B298 (PNL): 500 rupees (US$7.45)
Stone gray. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Gandhi’s eyeglasses; language panel; Red Fort in Delhi. 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI. Watermark: Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype vertical 500. Printer: (ISP). 150 x 63 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: E. Intro: 10.11.2016.
B299 (PNL): 2,000 rupees (US$30)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Swachh Bharat logo (Gandhi’s eyeglasses); language panel; Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission space probe). 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI, 2000, भारत (India). Watermark: Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype vertical 2000. Printer: (ISP). 166 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: None, R. Intro: 10.11.2016.
B298 (PNL): 500 rupees (US$7.45)
Stone gray. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Gandhi’s eyeglasses; language panel; Red Fort in Delhi. 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI. Watermark: Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype vertical 500. Printer: (ISP). 150 x 63 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: E. Intro: 10.11.2016.
B299 (PNL): 2,000 rupees (US$30)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; Mahatma Gandhi; RBI seal with tiger and palm tree; lion capital of Ashoka pillar. Back: Swachh Bharat logo (Gandhi’s eyeglasses); language panel; Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission space probe). 3-mm wide green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized RBI, 2000, भारत (India). Watermark: Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype vertical 2000. Printer: (ISP). 166 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 22. Letter: None, R. Intro: 10.11.2016.
Haiti new 10-gourde polymer note (B851) confirmed
07 11, 2016 12:37 Category: Caribbean
B851 (PNL): 10 gourdes (US$0.20)
Light blue and purple. Front: Coat of arms with cannon, flags, anchor, bugle, drum, and palm tree; Lieutenant Sanite Belair; soldiers fighting with rifles; coat of arms over clear window. Back: Coat of arms over clear window; Fort Cap-Rouge (Fort Red Cap) in Jacmel. No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: Unknown. 132 x 64 mm. Polymer.
a. 2013. Signature 15. Prefix M.
Courtesy of Pieter Liem.
Zimbabwe newly discovered Cargill Cotton cheques deemed suspect
07 11, 2016 11:17 Category: Africa
In late 2016, cheques began to appear on the collector market in amounts from Z$5 million to Z$50 billion. These notes are suspect because the denominations greatly exceed amounts needed during 2003 and 2004, the dates on these cheques, when the largest Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe travellers cheque (B118) was Z$100,000. Furthermore, the PAY TO THE ORDER OF line on the cheque has a crude blue CARGILL COTTON rubber stamp, even though the legend reads For and on behalf of CARGILL COTTON (PVT.) LTD. It’s illogical for the company to write cheques to itself. Unless compelling evidence surfaces that these are legitimate issues, The Banknote Book considers them fakes created from remainder cheque stock specifically to defraud the collector market. As such, they are not cataloged and buyers should be highly suspect of same.
Courtesy of Austin Mattox and Steve Milner.
Courtesy of Austin Mattox and Steve Milner.
Venezuela new sig/date (05.11.2015) 100-bolívar note confirmed
05 11, 2016 18:05 Category: South America
Like P93, but new date (5 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2015) and new signatures. Prefix CC.
Courtesy of Dario Silva.
Venezuela new sig/date (05.11.2015) 50-bolívar note confirmed
05 11, 2016 18:04 Category: South America
Like P92, but new date (5 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2015) and new signatures. Prefix AM.
Courtesy of Dario Silva.
India new 2,000-rupee note reported for introduction soon
05 11, 2016 12:55 Category: South Asia
According to various news reports, but not yet verified by any press release or official announcement, the Reserve Bank of India plans to issue a 2,000-rupee note, double the face value of the current largest denomination (B297). The notes are already printed and awaiting introduction.
Georgia new 100-lari note (B258) confirmed
04 11, 2016 12:34 Category: Middle East
Courtesy of Дмитрий Чохонелидзе.
Bolivia new note subjects revealed in video
04 11, 2016 07:45 Category: South America
The following Spanish-language video shows the subject matters that will be depicted on the new family of notes expected to be introduced in Bolivia in 2018.
Courtesy of Cedrian Lopez-Bosch.
Courtesy of Cedrian Lopez-Bosch.
Egyptian pound devalued by 48 percent
04 11, 2016 07:09 Category: Africa
According to various articles, on 3 November 2016 Egypt floated its currency after a 48 percent devaluation of the Egyptian pound. With this move, the face value of its largest banknote, the 200-pound note (B337), falls to just US$13. Expect prices of modern Egyptian notes to be volatile until the market absorbs this unexpected move.
Nigeria new date (2016) 200-naira note (B227v) confirmed
03 11, 2016 08:34 Category: Africa
Like B227u, but new date (2016). Prefix B/52.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Saudi Arabia announces new finance minister
02 11, 2016 16:02 Category: Middle East
According to a press release dated 2 November 2016, Saudi Arabia has appointed Mohammed Al-Jadaan as the new finance minister, replacing Ibrahim bin Abdulaziz bin Abdullah al-Assaf, who served in that position from 30 October 1996. New signature varieties may be forthcoming.
Courtesy of Ghassan Samman.
Courtesy of Ghassan Samman.
Zimbabwe prepares for issuance of bond notes by end of 2016
02 11, 2016 15:47 Category: Africa
According to an article in The Herald dated 1 November 2016, Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe has gazetted Statutory Instrument 133 of 2016, providing the legal framework for the introduction of bond notes and coins as legal tender. The new currency is expected to circulate at par with the US dollar when introduced by the end of 2016.
Venezuela turns to US-based Crane to produce new currency
01 11, 2016 17:17 Category: South America
According to an article in The Wall Street Journal dated 31 October 2016, "Earlier this month, Venezuela’s central bank awarded Boston-based securities printer Crane Currency the largest part of a contract for new bill denominations needed to keep up with triple-digit inflation, according to people involved in contract negotiations." Check out the full article for a fascinating quote from a certain "San Francisco-based banknote expert who catalogs world currencies." Hint, hint.
Scotland's Royal Bank new 5-pound polymer note confirmed
28 10, 2016 08:23 Category: Europe
5 pounds
Blue, green, and orange. Front: Flower; bank logo in SPARK; Cairngorms mountain range in eastern Highlands of Scotland; quote from Nan Shepherd’s book “The Living Mountain;” poet and novelist Nan Shepherd. Back: Two mackerel fish; excerpt from Sorley MacLean’s poem “The Choice.” No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: (TDLR). 125 x 65 mm. Polymer (Safeguard). a. 11th February 2016. Prefix AY. Intro: 26.10.2016.
Brazil new signature 20-real note (B877b) confirmed
27 10, 2016 12:32 Category: South America
B877b: Like B877a, but new signatures (Joaquim Levy and Alexandre Antonio Tombini). Prefix DC.
Courtesy of Edward Feltcorn.
Brazil new signature 10-real note (B876b) confirmed
27 10, 2016 12:30 Category: South America
B876b: Like B876a, but new signatures (Joaquim Levy and Alexandre Antonio Tombini). Prefix CJ.
Courtesy of Edward Feltcorn.
Brazil new signature 2-real note (B874c) confirmed
27 10, 2016 12:27 Category: South America
B874c: Like B874b, but new signatures (Henrique Meirelles and Alexandre Antonio Tombini). Prefix DF.
Courtesy of Edward Feltcorn.
Switzerland new sig/date (2014) 100-franc note (B352j) confirmed
27 10, 2016 09:18 Category: Europe
Like B352i, but new date (2014) and new signatures (80).
Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.
Jamaica new date (01.06.2015) 500-dollar note (B240g) confirmed
26 10, 2016 15:04 Category: Caribbean
B240g: Like B240f, but new date (01.06.2015). Prefix AF.
India new 50-rupee note (B294) confirmed
26 10, 2016 12:41 Category: South Asia
According to a press release dated 23 September 2016, the Reserve Bank of India introduced a 50-rupee note like B288, but with novel serial numbers, offset printing instead of intaglio, lighter color on back, removal of rectangular intaglio mark at left center front, and removal of latent image 50 to right of Gandhi portrait. The note is dated 2016, bears the signature of Governor Rajan, and is without inset letter.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
Jamaica new date (01.06.2016) 1,000-dollar note (B241i) confirmed
25 10, 2016 09:03 Category: Caribbean
B241i: Like B241h, but new date (01.06.2016). Prefix CS.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Romania new date (2016) 200-leu note (B284h) confirmed
25 10, 2016 08:40 Category: Europe
Like P122, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Hungary new 20,000-forint note (B592) confirmed
25 10, 2016 08:33 Category: Europe
Like B586, but with new color scheme and updated security features.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Press release: The Banknote Register 2nd edition
The Banknote Register: CIS and Baltic Countries
1991-2016, General Issues
Second edition (English)
Author: Dmitry Zagorenko (IBNS #11608, General Secretary of the Russian Chapter of IBNS).
Editor: Dmitry Litvak (IBNS LM #204, President of the Russian Chapter of IBNS).
Format: A4. Weight: 1,5 Kg.
Hard cover with pressed gilding and book jacket band.
344 full-color pages (paper 115 g/m2).
16 Chapters (Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Lithuania, Moldova, Transnistria, Latvia, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Turkmenistan, Estonia).
Edition: 1000 pieces.
The Banknote Register provides the most detailed information on all emissions of paper money in post-Soviet countries from 1991 to present. It describes the history of money circulation establishment and development in the new sovereign states. The book gives detailed information on each banknote, variations and types, commemorative and souvenir issues, security features, designers, signatories, serial prefixes, images portrayed on the notes. It will be no exaggeration to say that the author with the help of collectors and staff of national banks has compiled the best known up to now data, many of which will be published for the first time, and also data unknown to many collectors. This work has resulted in compilation and classification of the most complete information on currency circulation in the post-Soviet countries.
The publication of the Register will, for sure, reduce the number of blank spaces in the history of circulation in CIS and Baltic states. Nevertheless, the author continues searching for materials and communicating with paper money collectors, museum workers, designers and bank specialists and laymen. We hope that the Register of Banknotes of CIS and Baltic Countries will encourage you as well to study actively the currency circulation in the post-Soviet countries.
Promo-video: https://youtu.be/O33FxdonxS0
Official website: http://banknote-register.com
For a $7 discount off the list price of $62, use the coupon code "BanknoteBook" when ordering the book by email. Registered shipment to any country in the world is $22, so the total discounted cost is only US$77.
Liberia new 10-dollar note (B312) confirmed
24 10, 2016 07:23 Category: Africa
B312 (PNL): 10 dollars (US$0.10)
Blue. Front: First president, Joseph Jenkins Roberts; 5-pointed star as registration device. Back: Bank seal with crossed kissi money and front and back of 50-cent coin dated 1969; 5-pointed star; man tapping rubber tree. 3-mm wide color-changing windowed security thread. Watermark: Coat of arms with electrotype CBL. Printer: (Crane Currency). 133 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Prefix AA. Intro: 06.10.2016.
Courtesy of Oleksiy Danylenko.
Liberia new 5-dollar note (B311) confirmed
24 10, 2016 07:23 Category: Africa
B311 (PNL): 5 dollars (US$0.05)
Purple. Front: Fifth president, Edward James Roye; 5-pointed star as registration device. Back: Bank seal with crossed kissi money and front and back of 50-cent coin dated 1969; 5-pointed star; woman harvesting rice. 3-mm wide color-changing windowed security thread. Watermark: Coat of arms with electrotype CBL. Printer: (Crane Currency). 133 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Prefix AA. Intro: 06.10.2016.
Courtesy of Oleksiy Danylenko.
Thailand new 100-baht commemorative reported for 25.10.2016 introduction
21 10, 2016 09:28 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
According to an article on Pattay Mail dated 21 October 2016, the Bank of Thailand will introduce a new 100-baht note to commemorate the late king's seventh cycle birthday on 25 October. The notes will be packaged with a pamphlet and sold for 200 baht each.
Thailand to continue using notes depicting late king
21 10, 2016 09:23 Category: East and Southeast Asia
According to a press release dated 19 October 2016, the Bank of Thailand has announced that the current banknotes (B181 - B185) will continue to be used indefinitely despite the death of Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) on 13 October 2016, whose portrait appears on the front of all denominations.
India new 20-rupee note (B293) confirmed
19 10, 2016 12:18 Category: South Asia
According to a press release dated 15 September 2016, the Reserve Bank of India introduced a 20-rupee note like B287, but with novel serial numbers, offset printing instead of intaglio, lighter color on back, removal of rectangular intaglio mark at left center front, and removal of latent image 20 to right of Gandhi portrait. The note is dated 2016, bears the signature of Governor Patel, and has inset letter R.
According to a press release dated 23 September 2016, the same note will be issued with the signature of Governor Rajan and without an inset letter.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
According to a press release dated 23 September 2016, the same note will be issued with the signature of Governor Rajan and without an inset letter.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
Libya new "Russian" 20-dinar note (B548) confirmed
16 10, 2016 09:44 Category: Africa
B548: Like B544, but different security features, watermarks, and the serial number at right front is horizontal, not vertical, and neither serial number has ascending size digits.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
British North Borneo chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
13 10, 2016 22:51 Category: The Banknote Book | East and Southeast Asia
The British North Borneo chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 7-page catalog covers notes issued by the British North Borneo Company from 1886 to 1942. Published 14 October 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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Egypt new 20-pound note (B341) confirmed
12 10, 2016 12:40 Category: Africa
B341: Like B331, but 4-mm wide windowed thread at left. 08.02.2016. Series 292. Replacement note prefix م with numerator ٧٠٠.
Courtesy of Gylfi Snorrason.
Liberia new 100-dollar note (B315) confirmed
12 10, 2016 11:16 Category: Africa
B315: Like B310, but with enhanced security features. Replacement notes confirmed with prefix ZZ.
Courtesy of Oleksiy Danylenko.
Liberia new 50-dollar note (B314) confirmed
12 10, 2016 11:16 Category: Africa
B314: Like B309, but with enhanced security features.
Courtesy of Oleksiy Danylenko.
Liberia new 20-dollar note (B313) confirmed
12 10, 2016 11:14 Category: Africa
B313: Like B308, but with enhanced security features.
Courtesy of Oleksiy Danylenko.
Bank of Scotland new 5-pound note confirmed
12 10, 2016 10:57 Category: Europe
On front, like the limited edition commemorative 5-pound banknote featuring Pudsey bear, but intended for general circulation and without the bear on back, which is like P124.
Courtesy of Peter Mosselberger (http://www.banknote.ws).
India new date (2016) 500-rupee note (B296b) confirmed
08 10, 2016 05:54 Category: South Asia
B296b: Like B296a, but new date (2016). No inset letter.
Courtesy of Elazar Schachar.
Sweden new 100- and 500-krona notes confirmed introduced 03.10.2016
07 10, 2016 10:28 Category: Europe
Nepal new 50-rupee note (B288) confirmed
07 10, 2016 09:45 Category: South Asia
Like B282, but with snow leopard on back.
Liberia reportedly introduced new note family on 06.10.2016
07 10, 2016 08:25 Category: Africa
According to a press release dated 6 October 2016, the Central Bank of Liberia has introduced a new family of notes printed by Crane Currency.
Guinea new 100-franc note (B341) confirmed
05 10, 2016 13:53 Category: Africa
B341: Like B324, but new date, new signature, and new vignette at lower right front.
Courtesy of Manuel Fernando Iglesias.
Suriname new sig/date (01.04.2012) 20-dollar note (B547b) confirmed
05 10, 2016 13:52 Category: South America
B547b: Like B547a, but new date (1 APRIL 2012; vertical in green). Signature 8.
Printer: Giesecke & Devrient.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Suriname new sig/date (01.04.2012) 10-dollar note (B546b) confirmed
05 10, 2016 13:19 Category: South America
B546b: Like B546a, but new date (1 APRIL 2012; vertical in purple). Signature 8.
Printer: Giesecke & Devrient.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Cuba new date (2015) 100-peso note (B912g) confirmed
05 10, 2016 12:07 Category: Caribbean
Like B912f, but new date (2015). Series AI-03.
Courtesy of Yigal Arkin.
Cuba new date (2006) 3-peso note (B903c) confirmed
05 10, 2016 12:04 Category: Caribbean
Like B903b, but new date (2006). Series FC-15.
Courtesy of Yigal Arkin.
Cuba new date (2015) 5-peso note (B905d) confirmed
05 10, 2016 12:01 Category: Caribbean
Like B905c, but new date (2015). Series EO-35.
Courtesy of Yigal Arkin.
Malaysia new signature 50-ringitt note (B148b) reported
28 09, 2016 12:05 Category: East and Southeast Asia
According to a press release dated 28 September 2016, Bank Negara Malaysia will introduce 50-ringgit notes (B148b) with the signature of Datuk Muhammd Ibrahim, who was appointed as the new governor for five years, effective from 1 May 2016, following the retirement of the previous governor, Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akthar Aziz.
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new sig/date (13.02.2016) 5-pound polymer commemorative confirmed
28 09, 2016 12:00 Category: Europe
According to an article in the Daily Record dated 27 September 2016, the Clydesdale Bank has begun withdrawing paper 5-pound notes and is now issuing a polymer 5-pound banknote, like the commemorative previously issued, but with new date (13th February 2016) and new signature of CEO David Duffy. The text on the back has also changed rom "UNESCO World Heritage Site Nomination" to "Scottish World Heritage Site Inscribed 2015," and a similar change to the front, from "UNESCO World Heritage Site Nomination" to "Scottish World Heritage Site."
Courtesy of Zbyszek Warszawski and Quality World Currency.
Courtesy of Zbyszek Warszawski and Quality World Currency.
Luxembourg's bank museums and displays
27 09, 2016 23:16 Category: Europe
Following a great weekend attending the Paper Money Fair in Valkenburg, The Netherlands, I journeyed on to Luxembourg City, where I visited the Head Office of the Banque et Caisse d'Epargne. Alas, I had the misfortune to visit the one day that the bank was holding a special event for its employees, and it had shoved all the banknote displays into an inaccessible corner. The most interesting installation was a mini theater in the old bank vault, which was inexplicably playing a montage of every bank heist movie ever made (not exactly building confidence in the bank's security). The bank doesn't have any items for sale, nor any take-home educational material, but it is free and worth a stop if you're in town. The exterior of the bank is quite beautiful, though the view is temporarily marred by the renovation of the Adolphe Bridge just in front.
Afterwards, I walked 15 minutes to the Banque Central du Luxembourg, which is housed in a very modern building. After being buzzed into the secure numismatic exhibit hall, I was greeted by a large table with many brochures detailing the security features of various euro denominations, but again, nothing was available discussing the country's prior banknote issues. They did offer for sale a huge assortment of numismatic products containing coins, however. This exhibit is also free and worth checking out if you're in the area, though I must admit i enjoyed my stroll through the nearby ravine much more.
Afterwards, I walked 15 minutes to the Banque Central du Luxembourg, which is housed in a very modern building. After being buzzed into the secure numismatic exhibit hall, I was greeted by a large table with many brochures detailing the security features of various euro denominations, but again, nothing was available discussing the country's prior banknote issues. They did offer for sale a huge assortment of numismatic products containing coins, however. This exhibit is also free and worth checking out if you're in the area, though I must admit i enjoyed my stroll through the nearby ravine much more.
Cuba new date (2016) 3-convertible peso note (BFX906c) confirmed
26 09, 2016 02:10 Category: Caribbean
Cuba new date (2016) 1-convertible peso note (BFX905e) confirmed
26 09, 2016 02:08 Category: Caribbean
Georgia new 100-lari note (B258) to be issued 01.11.2016
26 09, 2016 01:01 Category: Middle East
According to a press release dated 23 September 2016, the National Bank of Georgia plans to introduce the following new 100-lari note on 1 November 2016.
Bangladesh new signature 1,000-taka note (B354g) confirmed
22 09, 2016 07:17 Category: South Asia
Philippines new date (2016) 100-peso note confirmed
20 09, 2016 06:54 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P208, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Sing Chia Tan (
Philippines new date (2016) 1,000-peso note confirmed
20 09, 2016 06:53 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P211, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Sing Chia Tan (
Guatemala new sig/date (14.05.2014) 100-quetzal note confirmed
19 09, 2016 21:56 Category: Central America
Like P119, but new signatures, date (14 DE MAYO DE 2014), and printer (GIESECKE & DEVRIENT).
Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby
Guatemala new date (02.05.2012) 5-quetzal note confirmed
19 09, 2016 21:41 Category: Central America
Like P122, but new date (2 DE MYAO DE 2012), and new printer: OBERTHUR fiduciaire. Suffix E.
Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby
Guatemala new date (14.05.2014) 10-quetzal note confirmed
19 09, 2016 21:40 Category: Central America
Like P125, but new date (14 DE MAYO DE 2014) and new printer: OBERTHUR technologies. Suffix D.
Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby
Bahrain new 20-dinar note (B310) confirmed
18 09, 2016 10:31 Category: Middle East
B310 (PNL): 20 dinars (US$53)
Brown and light blue. Front: SPARK Live Truspin; King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa. Back: Al Fateh Islamic Center in Juffair. Rapid Motion windowed security thread with demetalized ٢٠ / 20. Watermark: King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa with electrotype TWENTY and denomination in Arabic text. Printer: (TDLR). 154 x 74 mm.
a. ٢٠٠٦ (2006). Signature 1. Intro: 04.09.2016.
Courtesy of Paul Mclean.
West African States new sig/date (2016) 10,000-franc note (B124Cp) confirmed
18 09, 2016 09:49 Category: Africa
Like B124Co, but new date (2016) and new signature.
Courtesy of Kevin Warfel.
West African States new sig/date (2016) 5,000-franc note (B123Cp) confirmed
18 09, 2016 09:48 Category: Africa
Like B123Co, but new date (2016) and new signature.
Courtesy of Kevin Warfel.
West African States new date (2015) 500-franc note (B120Cd) confirmed
18 09, 2016 09:47 Category: Africa
Like B120Cc, but new date (2015).
Courtesy of Kevin Warfel.
Indonesia new family of banknotes announced
16 09, 2016 12:40 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Following the issuance of Presidential Decree No. 31 of 5 September 2016, Bank Indonesia plans to introduce seven new banknote designs featuring national heroes:
The press release is unclear if the notes will be issued in 2016, or if the design phase will begin this year. It typically takes many years to develop a new family of notes from conception to introduction into circulation.
- 1,000 rupiah: Tjut Meutiah
- 2,000 rupiah: M. H. Thamrin
- 5,000 rupiah: K. H. Idham
- 10,000 rupiah: Frans Kaisiepo
- 20,000 rupiah: Gerungan Saul Samuel Jacob Ratulangi
- 50,000 rupiah: Juanda Kartawidjaja
- 100,000 rupiah: Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta
The press release is unclear if the notes will be issued in 2016, or if the design phase will begin this year. It typically takes many years to develop a new family of notes from conception to introduction into circulation.
Bahrain new 10- and 20-dinar notes (B309, B310) reported
14 09, 2016 13:18 Category: Middle East
According to a press release dated 4 September 2016, the Central Bank of Bahrain has introduced these notes which are like the preceding issues, but with enhanced security features (SPARK and Motion thread) and tactile lines added at center right front for the visually impaired.
Courtesy of yaqoob AlShaer.
Courtesy of yaqoob AlShaer.
Christoph Gärtner auction 35 takes place 19 October 2016 and is now online on Sixbid
13 09, 2016 15:39 Category: Miscellaneous
According to a press release, Christoph Gärtner auction 35 contains more than 3,000 banknote lots from all over the world, and all are now online on Sixbid.
Among them many rarities from Europe with rarely seen specimen banknotes including a comprehensive collection of Bulgaria will be offered.
"A special focus on banknotes from Russia and the Ukraine will be created by 1,400 different lots which will be offered as small collections and rare single notes. They start with the very early 18th century state issues, containing for example the very rare issue of 1,000-rubles 1895 P.A77, many specimen notes and nearly all issues of the “chervonetz”-series of the 1920s. The highlight of this section will be a prototype of a not issued project design of a 1-chervonets banknote from 1923. Furthermore a wide range of Russian regional and local issues will be auctioned, from North Russia to the far eastern regions – surely an exceptional collection of banknotes and an outstanding possibility to complete a collection.
But the auction will also show high value banknotes from Asia and Africa to complete this impressive offer of world banknotes which are waiting for your bids."
Australia new date (2014) 100-dollar note (B229e) confirmed
13 09, 2016 15:37 Category: Oceania
B229e: Like B229d, but new date (2014).
Courtesy of Paul Nahmias.
Great Britain new polymer 5-pound note confirmed
13 09, 2016 11:24 Category: Europe
On 13 September 2016, the Bank of England introduced the first of 440 million polymer 5-pound notes printed by De La Rue. A new 10-pound polymer note featuring Jane Austen is scheduled to be introduced in mid-2017. A new 20-pound polymer note featuring J.M.W. Turner is expected in 2020. The bank has not yet decided if or when it will introduce a new 50-pound note, nor if it will be paper or polymer.
5 pounds
Blue. Front: Bank seal; Elizabeth Tower (aka Big Ben); coronation crown; Queen Elizabeth II. Back: Winston Churchill; maze at Blenheim Palace in green foil. Kurz’s Kinegram Colors holographic stripe. No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): None. Printer: (TDLR). 125 x 65 mm. Polymer (Innovia’s Guardian).
a. 2015. Signature Victoria Cleland. Intro: 13.09.2016.
Courtesy of Antje Bird.
5 pounds
Blue. Front: Bank seal; Elizabeth Tower (aka Big Ben); coronation crown; Queen Elizabeth II. Back: Winston Churchill; maze at Blenheim Palace in green foil. Kurz’s Kinegram Colors holographic stripe. No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): None. Printer: (TDLR). 125 x 65 mm. Polymer (Innovia’s Guardian).
a. 2015. Signature Victoria Cleland. Intro: 13.09.2016.
Courtesy of Antje Bird.
Australia new sig/date (2015) 5-dollar note (B225j) confirmed
12 09, 2016 17:22 Category: Oceania
B255j: Like B225h, but new signatures and new date (2015). Prefix BA - EA.
This note dated 2014 is reported by the RBA, but has not yet been confirmed with scans of notes from circulation.
Courtesy of Paul Nahmias.
Switzerland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
09 09, 2016 08:40 Category: The Banknote Book | Europe
The Switzerland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 35-page catalog covers notes issued by Die Eidgenössische Staatskasse (The Federal Treasury) and Darlehenskasse der Schweizerischen Eidgenossenschaft (State Loan Bank of Swiss Federation) in 1914, and Schweizerische Nationalbank (Swiss National Bank) from 1907 to present. Published 9 September 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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Central African States new date (2002) 5,000-franc note (B104Cg) confirmed
08 09, 2016 08:38 Category: Africa
B104Cg: Like B104Cf, but new date (2002).
Courtesy of Kevin Warfel.
Courtesy of Kevin Warfel.
India new signature 20-rupee note (B287c2) confirmed
07 09, 2016 06:35 Category: South Asia
Like B287c1, but signature 20 (error), not signature 21. Inset letter E.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
Australia new 5-dollar note (B230) confirmed
02 09, 2016 11:21 Category: Oceania
The Reserve Bank of Australia introduced a new polymer 5-dollar note on 1 September 2016, the first in a new series.
Courtesy of Paul Nahmias and Andrew Randall.
Scotland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
01 09, 2016 11:28 Category: The Banknote Book | Europe
The Scotland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 20-page catalog covers notes issued by the British Linen Bank from 1907 to 1970 and the National Commercial Bank of Scotland Limited from 1959 to 1968. Revised 2 September 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
Thailand new signature 20-baht note (B181c) confirmed
31 08, 2016 11:50 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B181c: Like B181b, but new signature. Prefix 7G.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Guyana new signature 20-dollar note (B108h) confirmed
31 08, 2016 09:24 Category: South America
B108h: Like B108g, but new signature and new imprint (DE LA RUE). Prefix C/35 - C/37.
Courtesy of Chris Twining (Page's Coins and Currency).
Macau BNU new date (11.11.2013) 20-pataca note confirmed
30 08, 2016 08:35 Category: East and Southeast Asia
20 patacas, 11 DE NOVEMBRO DE 2013. Like P81, but new date. Prefix BU.
Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.
Ethiopia new date (2015) 100-birr note (B334g) confirmed
30 08, 2016 08:29 Category: Africa
B334g: Like B334f, but new date (2007/2015). Prefix EE.
Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.
India new signature 100-rupee note (B289e2) confirmed
30 08, 2016 08:17 Category: South Asia
Like B289e1, but signature 20 (error), not signature 21. Inset letter E.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
Gibraltar new 100-pound polymer commemorative note (B135) unveiled
26 08, 2016 11:05 Category: Europe | Commemorative
According to an article on Your Gibraltar TV dated 23 August 2016, this 100-pound banknote will be put into circulation in the second half of 2016. The note is dated 21 August 2015, the centenary of the birth of Sir Joshua Hassan. Nicknamed “Salvador” (Saviour), Sir Joshua was chief minister for a total of 22 years and is credited as being the most important architect of Gibraltar’s move towards self-determination.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
India's Reserve Bank names new governor Patel
26 08, 2016 10:40 Category: South Asia
According to a BBC News article dated 21 August 2016, the Reserve Bank of India has named Urjit Patel to take over as governor from Raghuram G. Rajan when his term ends 4 September 2016. Expect new signature varieties to follow.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Ukraine new 20-hryvnia commemorative note (BNP205) reported for 01.09.2016 introduction
26 08, 2016 10:18 Category: Europe | Commemorative
According to a press release dated 26 August 2016, the National Bank of Ukraine unveiled a note commemorating the 160th birthday of the Ukrainian writer Ivan Franko. One million notes were printed and will be available beginning 1 September 2016. The note substrate has Ukrainian flax added to reduce the cost of production and increase strength. Apparently 20,000 notes will be packaged with a folder and sold as a numismatic product for 31 hryven each.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Igor Tereshkov.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Igor Tereshkov.
Somaliland new date (2014) 1,000-shilling note (B123c) confirmed
22 08, 2016 12:32 Category: Africa
Thailand new signature 100-baht note (B183c) confirmed
22 08, 2016 06:34 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B183c: Like B183b, but with new signature. Prefix 3A.
Courtesy of Martin Burger.
Thailand new 500-baht commemorative note (B187) confirmed
21 08, 2016 15:10 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
According to a press release dated 2 August 2016, on 11 August 2016 the Bank of Thailand intends to introduce a new 500-baht note that commemorates the queen’s seventh cycle birthday celebration. A total of 20 million notes were printed.
B187 (PNL): 500 บาท (baht) (US$17)
Purple. Front: Royal Garuda emblem; Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) wearing in the Royal House of Chakri gown. Back: Royal Garuda emblem; royal family; standing Queen Sirikit examining Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Center products; seated Queen Sirikit wearing Thai Boromphiman costume; Khon performance; Lygodium products; Queen Sirikit Cattleya and Queen Sirikit Rose flowers. Holographic stripe. 4-mm wide green-to-gold RollingStar Cube windowed security thread with demetalized 500 บาท. Watermark: Rama IX and electrotype ๕๐๐. Printer: (NPW). 150 x 72 mm.
a. No date. Signature 87. Intro: 11.08.2016.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Sanjay Basu (numis-asia.blogspot.com).
B187 (PNL): 500 บาท (baht) (US$17)
Purple. Front: Royal Garuda emblem; Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) wearing in the Royal House of Chakri gown. Back: Royal Garuda emblem; royal family; standing Queen Sirikit examining Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Center products; seated Queen Sirikit wearing Thai Boromphiman costume; Khon performance; Lygodium products; Queen Sirikit Cattleya and Queen Sirikit Rose flowers. Holographic stripe. 4-mm wide green-to-gold RollingStar Cube windowed security thread with demetalized 500 บาท. Watermark: Rama IX and electrotype ๕๐๐. Printer: (NPW). 150 x 72 mm.
a. No date. Signature 87. Intro: 11.08.2016.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Sanjay Basu (numis-asia.blogspot.com).
East Caribbean States upgrades security thread on 10- to 100-dollar notes (B236-B239)
21 08, 2016 13:57 Category: Caribbean
According to a press release dated 10 April 2015, the East Caribbean Central Bank has upgraded the security on its notes (B236-B239) with the change to a wider windowed security thread.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Sudan new sig/date (03.2015) 2-pound note (B407b) confirmed
21 08, 2016 00:02 Category: Africa
Like B407a, but new signature and new date (MARCH 2015). Prefix BE.
Courtesy of John Miscall.
Colombia new 50,000-peso note confirmed
20 08, 2016 13:08 Category: South America
According to a press release, the Banco de la República introduced the following 50,000-peso note on 18 August 2016.
Purple. Front: Denomination in dark blue-to-light blue OVI; BRC as registration device; Colibrí piquicorto (hummingbird) and flower in green-to-blue SPARK Orbit; nautilus shell as registration device; Nobel prize in literature winner, Gabriel García Márquez, standing with butterflies and close-up. Back: Two standing natives; Ciudad Perdida, the heart of the Tayrona culture in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta; burgao (nautilus shell); Liberty head bank seal. Solid security thread and yellow-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC. Watermark: Gabriel García Márquez and electrotype 50. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 148 x 66 mm.
a. 19 DE AGOSTO DE 2015. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Prefix AA. Intro: 19.08.2016.
Courtesy of Andres Collazos, Cleo Phas, Noel Jose Cuenca Jimenez, and Camilo Uribe.
Purple. Front: Denomination in dark blue-to-light blue OVI; BRC as registration device; Colibrí piquicorto (hummingbird) and flower in green-to-blue SPARK Orbit; nautilus shell as registration device; Nobel prize in literature winner, Gabriel García Márquez, standing with butterflies and close-up. Back: Two standing natives; Ciudad Perdida, the heart of the Tayrona culture in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta; burgao (nautilus shell); Liberty head bank seal. Solid security thread and yellow-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC. Watermark: Gabriel García Márquez and electrotype 50. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 148 x 66 mm.
a. 19 DE AGOSTO DE 2015. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Prefix AA. Intro: 19.08.2016.
Courtesy of Andres Collazos, Cleo Phas, Noel Jose Cuenca Jimenez, and Camilo Uribe.
Poland unveils unissued Warsaw Pact notes
20 08, 2016 10:49 Category: Europe
According to an article in The Guardian dated 19 August 2016, in the 1970s the National Bank of Poland printed stocks of banknotes denominated from 1 to 2,000 zloty. Codenamed E-17, the notes were intended to be issued in territories captured by Warsaw Pact forces. The notes will be on public display in 2017. Given that the bank last year sold albums with all 23 notes issued from 1975 to 1993, it's possible that it will eventually sell sets of the Warsaw Pact notes, too.
Uganda new date (2015) 20,000-shilling note (B158c) confirmed
20 08, 2016 10:21 Category: Africa
Like B158b, but new date (2015). Prefix AX.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Uganda new date (2015) 10,000-shilling note (B157d) confirmed
20 08, 2016 10:20 Category: Africa
Like B157c, but new date (2015). Prefix BA.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Bangladesh new sig/date (2016) 500-taka note (B353f) confirmed
18 08, 2016 22:26 Category: South Asia
French West Africa chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
18 08, 2016 09:37 Category: The Banknote Book | Africa
The French West Africa chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 28-page catalog covers notes issued by the Banque de l’Afrique Occidentale (Bank of West Africa) from 1902 to 1945, Afrique Occidentale Française (French West Africa) in 1944, and Institut d’Emission de l’A.O.F. et du Togo (Issuing Institute of French West Africa and Togo) from 1955 to 1957. Published 19 August 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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Bahrain revised 10- and 20-dinar notes reported
18 08, 2016 09:26 Category: Middle East
According to unattributed images circulating online, the Central Bank of Bahrain is apparently planning to introduce 10- and 20-dinar banknotes like the current issues (B304 and B305), but with enhanced security features (Orbital SPARK instead of holographic patch on front, and possibly Motion threads on back) and slight redesigns. It's unclear if the other denominations issued in March 2008 will also be revised, or when the new notes will be issued.
Courtesy of Yaqoob AlShaer.
Singapore new symbol (one diamond) 100-dollar note (B206f) confirmed
18 08, 2016 08:21 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B206f: Like B206e, but one diamond below YOUTH on back. Intro: August 2016.
Courtesy of Tan Wei Jie (www.tanwj.com).
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new date (25.01.2014) 10-pound note confirmed
16 08, 2016 10:02 Category: Europe
Like P229J, but new date (25th January 2014). Prefix W/LB.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Egypt new 50-pound note (B340) confirmed
16 08, 2016 09:43 Category: Africa
B340: Like B332, but different windowed security thread and larger, green OVI at upper right.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Max Keller.
Egypt new sig/date 10-pound note (B339b) confirmed
16 08, 2016 09:29 Category: Africa
B339b: Like B339a, but new date and new signature.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Malawi new date (01.01.2016) 20-kwacha note (B157c) confirmed
13 08, 2016 07:31 Category: Africa
Like B157b, but new date (1st JANUARY 2016). Prefix BA.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Mongolia new sig/date (2014) 5-tögrög note (B429b) confirmed
12 08, 2016 06:44 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like B429a, but new date (2014) and new signature. Prefix AE. Replacement notes: Prefix XX.
Courtesy of Ömer Yalçinkaya (eBay store
Mongolia new sig/date (2014) 1-tögrög note (B428b) confirmed
12 08, 2016 06:42 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like B428a, but new date (2014), and new signature. Prefix AE.
Courtesy of Ömer Yalçinkaya (eBay store
Faroe Islands chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
11 08, 2016 17:00 Category: The Banknote Book | Europe
The Faroe Islands chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 14-page catalog covers notes issued by the Faerø Amt (Faroe County) in 1940 and the Føroyar (Faroes) from 1949 to present. Published 12 August 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
Canada new signature 100-dollar note (B375c) confirmed
11 08, 2016 09:07 Category: North America
B375c: Like B375b, but new signatures. Prefix GJA.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Sri Lanka new sig/date (04.02.2015) 1,000-rupee note (B127b) confirmed
11 08, 2016 09:01 Category: South Asia
B127b: Like B127a, but new date (2015-02-04) and new signature. Prefix S/196.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Lesotho new sig/date (2015) 50-loti note (B224b) confirmed
09 08, 2016 07:03 Category: Africa
B224b: Like B224a, but new signature and new date (2013). Prefix AL.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Lesotho new sig/date (2015) 10-loti note (B222b) confirmed
09 08, 2016 07:01 Category: Africa
B222b: Like B222a, but new signature and new date (2013). Prefix AR.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
India new sig/date (2016) 1-rupee note confirmed
05 08, 2016 10:00 Category: South Asia
Like P108, but new signature (Ratan P. Wetal) and new date (2016).
Courtesy of Simon Biddlestone.
Taiwan chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
04 08, 2016 09:44 Category: The Banknote Book | East and Southeast Asia
The Taiwan chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 36-page catalog covers notes issued by the Tainan Provincial Office in 1895, the Government Silver Note Office in 1895, The Bank of Taiwan from 1899 to 1999, and the Central Bank from 1999 to present. Published 5 August 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
Liberia reported to issue new banknote family "shortly"
01 08, 2016 14:39 Category: Africa
According to a press release dated 27 July 2016, the Central Bank of Liberia will "shortly" introduce a new series of banknotes which retains the portraits of the current series (B306 - B310), while enhancing the security, changing the substrate (most likely coated stock or hybrid) to reduce porosity and increase longevity, and adding a new 500-dollar denomination. The specimen designs released so far show the notes are dated 2016 and bear the signatures of the Minister of Finance and Development Planning and the bank's Executive Governor (Boima S. Kamara and Milton A. Weeks, respectively).
Courtesy of Fernando Iglesias, Central Bank of Liberia, and Arnoldo Efron (Monetary Research Institute).
Courtesy of Fernando Iglesias, Central Bank of Liberia, and Arnoldo Efron (Monetary Research Institute).
Thailand chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
28 07, 2016 11:25 Category: The Banknote Book | East and Southeast Asia
The Thailand chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 51-page catalog covers notes issued by the Government of Thailand from 1940 to present. Published 29 July 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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Belarus new 20-ruble variety (B139b) confirmed
26 07, 2016 10:31 Category: Europe
B139b: Like B139a, but with wider gap through center of latent image parallelogram (at center right front). There are also differences in the number of wavy lines in the lower portion of the parallelogram.
Courtesy of Maksim Kazakov.
Belarus new 5-ruble variety (B137b) confirmed
26 07, 2016 10:29 Category: Europe
B137b: Like B137a, but no gap to left of latent image parallelogram (at center right front).
Courtesy of Maksim Kazakov.
Sudan new sig/date (2015) 5-pound note (B408c) confirmed
26 07, 2016 09:37 Category: Africa
Like B408a, but new date (MARCH 2015) and new signature. Prefix CH.
Courtesy of John Miskell.
Belarus new ruble family confirmed introduced 01.07.2016
25 07, 2016 10:29 Category: Europe
The Belarusian ruble was redenominated per an Edict of the President of the Republic of Belarus No. 450 dated 4 November 2015, with existing notes (called the 2000 series) exchanged for new ones (called the 2009 series) at a rate of 10,000:1. A total of seven denominations of banknotes–5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 rubles–and eight denominations of coins–1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 copecks, and 1 and 2 rubles–were introduced on 1 July 2016.
The general concept of the new notes is “Belarus is my country,” with each denomination dedicated to one of the regions of Belarus and the city of Minsk: 5 rubles dedicated to Brest region, 10 rubles to Vitebsk region, 20 rubles to Gomel region, 50 rubles to Grodno region, 100 rubles to Minsk region, 200 rubles to Mogilev region, and 500 rubles to the city of Minsk.
From 1 July 2016 to 31 December 2016, the banknotes of the 2000 series and the banknotes and coins of the 2009 series circulate in parallel and are subject to obligatory acceptance without restriction in all kinds of payments performed by all economic entities. During the next five years–from 1 January 2017 through 31 December 2021–the currency units of the 2000 series will be exchanged for the currency units of the 2009 series in any sum without restriction and charging commission, after which time the 2000 series will be deemed invalid and demonetized.
The redenomination was taken with a view to improving money circulation, streamlining accounting and settlements, maintaining the optimal structure of money denominations, as well as reducing public expenditures on servicing cash circulation in the Republic of Belarus to a significant degree.
The National Bank of the Republic of Belarus ordered the “new” notes from De La Rue in 2008, but due to the global economic crisis of the time, the redenomination was postponed and the freshly printed notes were stored in the bank’s vaults. As such, the notes to be issued in 2016 bear the series date of 2009 and the facsimile signature of Petr P. Prokopovich, the then chairman of the board of the bank. Also, the new 50-ruble note carries an inscription which is inconsistent with currently applicable Belarusian spelling rules. These inconsistencies will be addressed as new notes are ordered from the printer.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Vitali Khaletski, Cleo Phas, Albert Vokhmin, and Александр Чижевский.
The general concept of the new notes is “Belarus is my country,” with each denomination dedicated to one of the regions of Belarus and the city of Minsk: 5 rubles dedicated to Brest region, 10 rubles to Vitebsk region, 20 rubles to Gomel region, 50 rubles to Grodno region, 100 rubles to Minsk region, 200 rubles to Mogilev region, and 500 rubles to the city of Minsk.
From 1 July 2016 to 31 December 2016, the banknotes of the 2000 series and the banknotes and coins of the 2009 series circulate in parallel and are subject to obligatory acceptance without restriction in all kinds of payments performed by all economic entities. During the next five years–from 1 January 2017 through 31 December 2021–the currency units of the 2000 series will be exchanged for the currency units of the 2009 series in any sum without restriction and charging commission, after which time the 2000 series will be deemed invalid and demonetized.
The redenomination was taken with a view to improving money circulation, streamlining accounting and settlements, maintaining the optimal structure of money denominations, as well as reducing public expenditures on servicing cash circulation in the Republic of Belarus to a significant degree.
The National Bank of the Republic of Belarus ordered the “new” notes from De La Rue in 2008, but due to the global economic crisis of the time, the redenomination was postponed and the freshly printed notes were stored in the bank’s vaults. As such, the notes to be issued in 2016 bear the series date of 2009 and the facsimile signature of Petr P. Prokopovich, the then chairman of the board of the bank. Also, the new 50-ruble note carries an inscription which is inconsistent with currently applicable Belarusian spelling rules. These inconsistencies will be addressed as new notes are ordered from the printer.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Vitali Khaletski, Cleo Phas, Albert Vokhmin, and Александр Чижевский.
Egypt new sig/date (10.12.2015) 200-pound note (B337b) confirmed
24 07, 2016 10:09 Category: Africa
B337b: Like B337a, but new date (10.12.2015) and new signature (Tarek Hassan Amer).
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Colombia new date (31.07.2014) 2,000-peso note confirmed
24 07, 2016 10:00 Category: South America
Like P457, but new date (31 DE JULIO DE 2014).
Courtesy of Andrés Collazos.
Egypt new signature 5-pound note (B338b) confirmed
21 07, 2016 15:13 Category: Africa
B338b: Like B338a, but new signature (Tarek Hassan Amer) and new date (22.12.2015).
Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.
French Somaliland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
14 07, 2016 12:09 Category: The Banknote Book | Africa
The French Somaliland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual saleand as a free download to subscribers. Anyone who buys this chapter also gets the Djibouti and French Afars & Issas chapters as well.
This 20-page catalog covers notes issued by Banque de l’Indo-Chine (Bank of Indo-China) from 1905 to 1948, Chambre de Commerce de Djibouti (Djibouti Chamber of Commerce) in 1919, and Trésor Public (Public Treasury) in 1952. Published 15 July 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
Bangladesh new date (2016) 1,000-taka note (B354f) confirmed
12 07, 2016 11:39 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B354f: Like B354e, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Chile chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
07 07, 2016 20:37 Category: The Banknote Book | South America
The Chile chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 33-page catalog covers notes issued by the Banco Central de Chile (Central Bank of Chile) from 1925 to present. Published 8 July 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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Chile new date (2013) 2,000-peso note (B297c) confirmed
07 07, 2016 20:37 Category: South America
B297c: Like B297b, but new date (2013). Prefix BJ.
Courtesy of Wally Myers.
Argentina new signature 5-peso note confirmed
07 07, 2016 20:16 Category: South America
Like P353, but new signature. Suffix J.
Courtesy of Wally Myers.
Romania new date (2016) 100-leu note (B283g) confirmed
06 07, 2016 11:18 Category: Europe
Like P121, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Costing Iorgu (http://www.banknotesworldshop.com), Marian Alionte, and Daniel Mendea.
European Monetary Union new 50-euro note (B111) unveiled
05 07, 2016 07:13 Category: Europe
On 5 July 2016, the European Central Bank unveiled the design of the new 50-euro note due to be introduced into circulation on 4 April 2017. This is the fourth denomination in the new Europa series.
Iraq new 500-dinar note with Kurdish confirmed
05 07, 2016 07:11 Category: Middle East
For more than five years, the Central Bank of Iraq has planned to remove three zeroes from the banknotes and add Kurdish text. To date the efforts to redenominate the dinar have failed to come to fruition, but as this note demonstrates, the addition of Kurdish text is underway, with the language first appearing on the 50,000-dinar note (B356) introduced on 11 November 2015.
Like B348, but Kurdish text added to lower left and upper right on back, new date (٢٠١٥ - ١٤٣٦), and new signature (Ali Mohsen Ismail).
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online) and Musaab Ibrahim.
Like B348, but Kurdish text added to lower left and upper right on back, new date (٢٠١٥ - ١٤٣٦), and new signature (Ali Mohsen Ismail).
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online) and Musaab Ibrahim.
Bolivia new 50-boliviano series J note confirmed
01 07, 2016 14:27 Category: South America
According to a Spanish-language press release dated 2 July 2015, the Banco Central de Bolivia introduced a 50-boliviano note with suffix J. This is like P235, but with improved anti-counterfeiting features, including a 3-mm wide magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BCB 50, and unspecificed blue UV printing.
Bolivia new 200-boliviano series J note confirmed
01 07, 2016 14:27 Category: South America
.
According to a press release dated 9 December 2015, the Banco Central de Bolivia has issued a new 200-boliviano note like P237, but suffix J, and 4-mm wide gold-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BCB Bs 200. The printer imprint is OBERTHUR fiduciaire.
According to a press release dated 9 December 2015, the Banco Central de Bolivia has issued a new 200-boliviano note like P237, but suffix J, and 4-mm wide gold-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BCB Bs 200. The printer imprint is OBERTHUR fiduciaire.
Egypt new sig/date 100-pound note (B336b) confirmed
01 07, 2016 13:49 Category: Africa
B336b: Like B336a, but new signature (Tarek Hassan Amer) and date (13.01.2016). Prefix 263.
There is also a minor change in the Arabic spelling of the word HUNDRED at right front.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Warszawski.
Egypt new sig/date 20-pound note (B331g) confirmed
01 07, 2016 13:47 Category: Africa
B331g: Like B331f, but new signature (Tarek Hassan Amer) and date (03.02.2016). Prefix 289.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Colombia new 20,000-peso note confirmed
01 07, 2016 11:58 Category: South America
According to a press release dated 30 June 2016, the Banco de la República has issued a new 20,000-peso note.
20,000 pesos
Orange. Front: Denomination in dark green-to-light green OVI; BRC as registration device; sugar-apple (Annona squamosa) in green-to-blue SPARK Orbit; Zenú earring as registration device; president Alfonso López Michelsen, standing with hat in hand, and close-up giving speech. Back: Sombrero vueltiao (turned hat); standing farmer wearing hat, carrying sheaf of caña flecha (Gynerium sagittatum); canals at La Mojana where the Zenú people settled; Zenú earring; Benjamin Puche Villadiego poem about sombrero vueltiao; Liberty head bank seal. Solid security thread and yellow-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and Zenú earring. Watermark: Alfonso López Michelsen and electrotype 20. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 143 x 66 mm.
a. 19 DE AGOSTO DE 2015. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Prefix AA. Intro: 30.06.2016.
Courtesy of NUMISMÁTICA Y FILATELIA BOGOTÁ (www.monetario-colombia.com).
20,000 pesos
Orange. Front: Denomination in dark green-to-light green OVI; BRC as registration device; sugar-apple (Annona squamosa) in green-to-blue SPARK Orbit; Zenú earring as registration device; president Alfonso López Michelsen, standing with hat in hand, and close-up giving speech. Back: Sombrero vueltiao (turned hat); standing farmer wearing hat, carrying sheaf of caña flecha (Gynerium sagittatum); canals at La Mojana where the Zenú people settled; Zenú earring; Benjamin Puche Villadiego poem about sombrero vueltiao; Liberty head bank seal. Solid security thread and yellow-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and Zenú earring. Watermark: Alfonso López Michelsen and electrotype 20. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 143 x 66 mm.
a. 19 DE AGOSTO DE 2015. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Prefix AA. Intro: 30.06.2016.
Courtesy of NUMISMÁTICA Y FILATELIA BOGOTÁ (www.monetario-colombia.com).
Argentina new 500-peso note confirmed
01 07, 2016 11:32 Category: South America
According to a press release dated 29 June 2016, on 30 June the Banco Central de la República Argentina introduced a new 500-peso note, the first in a new series of banknotes featuring the native fauna of various regions of the country. This new note will circulate in parallel with existing notes.
500 pesos
Green. Front (vertical): Leaves; paw print as registration device; jaguar; flowers; silhouette of jaguar with latent image RA; denomination in green-to-blue SPARK. Back: Paw prints; jaguar cub and adult in stream running through forest; map of Argentina with Northeast region highlighted; compass rose; flowers; coat of arms. Green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized $500 BCRA. Watermark: Jaguar and electrotype 500. Printer: S.E. CASA DE MONEDA. 155 x 65 mm.
a. No date. Signature Federico Sturzenegger and Gabriela Michetti. Suffix A. Intro: 30.06.2016.
Replacement notes: Prefix R.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas and Nick Chiu.
500 pesos
Green. Front (vertical): Leaves; paw print as registration device; jaguar; flowers; silhouette of jaguar with latent image RA; denomination in green-to-blue SPARK. Back: Paw prints; jaguar cub and adult in stream running through forest; map of Argentina with Northeast region highlighted; compass rose; flowers; coat of arms. Green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized $500 BCRA. Watermark: Jaguar and electrotype 500. Printer: S.E. CASA DE MONEDA. 155 x 65 mm.
a. No date. Signature Federico Sturzenegger and Gabriela Michetti. Suffix A. Intro: 30.06.2016.
Replacement notes: Prefix R.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas and Nick Chiu.
Royal Bank of Scotland new sig/date (31.01.2016) 20-pound note confirmed
01 07, 2016 11:22 Category: Europe
Like P354, but new signature (Ross McEwan) and new date (31st JANUARY 2016). Prefix C/47.
Courtesy of Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk).
Indonesia new date (2016) 50,000-rupiah note (B606f) confirmed
29 06, 2016 20:03 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B606f: Like B606e, but new date (2016 / 2005). Prefix MAD.
Courtesy of Wahidin Teddy.
Indonesia new date (2016) 10,000-rupiah note (B604h) confirmed
29 06, 2016 20:01 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B604h: Like B604g, but new date (2016 / 2005). Prefix XUE.
Courtesy of Wahidin Teddy.
Indonesia new date (2016) 20,000-rupiah note (B605f) confirmed
29 06, 2016 14:04 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B605f: Like B605e, but new date (2016 / 2004). Prefix YJA.
Courtesy of Wahidin Teddy.
Indonesia new sig/date (2016) 100,000-rupiah note (B608b) confirmed
28 06, 2016 14:08 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B608b: Like B608a, but new date (2014/2016) and new signature (unknown). Prefix OEF.
Courtesy of Wahidin Teddy.
Libya new "Russian" 50-dinar note (B549) confirmed
28 06, 2016 12:44 Category: Africa
B549: Like B545, but different security features, watermarks, and the serial number at right front is horizontal, not vertical, and neither serial number has ascending size digits.
Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby
Malawi new date (01.01.2016) 1,000-kwacha note (B162b) confirmed
28 06, 2016 12:05 Category: Africa
Malawi new 200-kwacha note (B160) confirmed
28 06, 2016 11:59 Category: Africa
Like B153, but with with enhanced blind recognition features, and new date (1st JANUARY 2016). Prefix AZ.
Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby
Malawi new date (01.01.2016) 100-kwacha note (B159b) confirmed
28 06, 2016 11:58 Category: Africa
Malawi new date (01.01.2016) 50-kwacha note (B158c) confirmed
28 06, 2016 11:57 Category: Africa
Oman corrected date (2015) 1-rial commemorative note (B236b) confirmed
28 06, 2016 11:37 Category: Middle East | Commemorative
Nigeria new date (2016) 20-naira note (B232p) confirmed
26 06, 2016 08:41 Category: Africa
B232p: Like B232o, but new date (2016). Prefix DB.
Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.
Haiti new date (2014) 250-gourde note (B849f) confirmed
25 06, 2016 15:26 Category: Caribbean
B849f: Like B849e, but new date (2014) printed in purple, not green. Prefix E.
Courtesy of Richard Miranda.
Mauritius new sig/date (2015) 1,000-rupee note (B429b) confirmed
23 06, 2016 07:18 Category: Africa
B429b: Like B429a, but new signatures (Yandraduth Googoolye, Rameswurlall Basant Roi, and Mahendra Vikramdass Punchoo) and new date (2015). Prefix BJ.
Courtesy of Owen Griffiths.
Mauritius announces plans to introduce new note family in late 2017
23 06, 2016 07:16 Category: Africa
According to a press release dated 17 June 2016, the Bank of Mauritius has begun planning a new family of banknotes to be issued in a phased manner beginning in the second half of 2017 with improved security features and entirely new designs. The portraits will be replaced with illustrative elements that may include Mauritius’ “national heritage, history, culture, endemic species of the Mauritian flora and fauna, and distinctive landscapes.”
Oman corrected 1-rial commemorative note reported
21 06, 2016 08:26 Category: Middle East
According to a Times of Oman article dated 19 June 2016, the Central Bank of Oman has reportedly issued a corrected 1-rial note which fixes a date error on the note (B236) which was originally issued 18 November 2015 to commemorate the 45th National Day (18 November), the day Sultan Qaboos bin Said overthrew the restrictive rule of his father in 1970.
India Reserve Bank governor to resign 04.09.2016
20 06, 2016 11:24 Category: South Asia
According to a press release dated 18 June 2016, Raghuram G. Rajan, who has served as governor of the Reserve Bank of India since 4 September 2013, intends to resign when his term ends on 4 September 2016.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Nigeria new date (2016) 1,000-naira note (B229m) confirmed
19 06, 2016 09:42 Category: Africa
Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.
Colombia new 20,000-peso note to be introduced 30.06.2016
18 06, 2016 10:09 Category: South America
According to a press release dated 17 June 2016, the Banco de la República intends to introduce a new 20,000-peso note on 30 June 2016.
Egypt new sig/date (2016) 1-pound note (B316n) confirmed
17 06, 2016 12:00 Category: Africa
B316n: Like B316m, but new signature (Tarek Hassan Amer), new date (2016), and new windowed Motion security thread.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
European Central Bank to unveil new 50-euro note on 05.07.2016
17 06, 2016 11:48 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 16 June 2016, the European Central Bank plans to unveil the new Europa series 50-euro banknote on 5 July 2016, with introduction into circulation in the first half of 2017.
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new sig/date (16.08.2015) 50-pound note confirmed
17 06, 2016 11:10 Category: Europe
Like P229L, but new signature (David J. Duffy) and new date (16th August 2015). Prefix W/HU. Intro: June 2016.
Courtesy of Andrew Balsillie.
Philippines new date (2014) 200-peso note confirmed
16 06, 2016 16:00 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P209, but new date (2014). Prefix AK.
Courtesy of Andy Siegman.
Thailand new signature 100-baht note confirmed
16 06, 2016 14:35 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like unlisted note issued 26.02.2015, but new signature. Prefix 7C.
Courtesy of Frank Schirmer (Changnoi's Thai Banknotes).
Jordan new sig/date (2016) 1-dinar note (B229h) confirmed
16 06, 2016 12:43 Category: Middle East
B229h: Like B229g, but new signatures and new date (2016).
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Nepal new 100-rupee note (B287a) confirmed
15 06, 2016 15:03 Category: South Asia
Like B280, but new signature (Chiranjivi Nepal), new date (2015), raised black dot for sight-impaired, and rhino calf added to vignette on back. Intro: 13.06.2016.
Courtesy of Shankar Shrestha (http://www.nuphil.com).
Guyana new signature 100-dollar note (B114d) confirmed
15 06, 2016 14:42 Category: South America
B114d: Like B114c, but new signatures (Gobind Ganga and Ashni Singh). Prefix B/60.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Jordan new date (2016) 50-dinar note (B234i) confirmed
10 06, 2016 10:01 Category: Middle East
Like B234h, but new date (2016 ٢٠١٦).
Courtesy of Raphael Dvir.
Bhutan new date (2015) 5-ngultrum note (B217c) confirmed
09 06, 2016 21:26 Category: South Asia
Tanzania reportedly replacing 500-shilling note (B139) with coin
09 06, 2016 09:18 Category: Africa
According to an article on DailyNews dated 9 June 2016, the Bank of Tanzania is phasing out 500-shilling notes (B139) and replacing same with coins.
Egypt reported to resume printing of 1-pound notes (B316)
07 06, 2016 12:13 Category: Middle East
According to an Albawaba Business article dated 7 June 2016, the Central Bank of Egypt’s printing house has begun producing 500 million new 1-pound banknotes to alleviate a shortage of small change. The new notes are expected to be identical to the 1-pound note (B316) which has not been produced since 2008 when it was replaced by a coin of the same denomination, but will bear the signature of Governor Tarek Amer, who took office in November 2015.
Hong Kong Bank of China commemorative reported for September intro
07 06, 2016 12:11 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
According to an article in The Standard dated 7 June 2016, the Bank of China (Hong Kong) has received approval to issue a note in September to commemorate the bank’s 100th anniversary in Hong Kong.
Poland new 500-złoty note reported for February 2017 introduction
07 06, 2016 10:44 Category: Europe
According to a Polish-language press release dated 6 June 2016, the National Bank of Poland intends to introduce a new 500-złoty note with a portrait of King Jan III Sobieski (John Sobieski), thereby keeping with the theme of the other denominations which feature “The monarchs of Poland.” The new note was designed by Andrzej Heidrich, the artist responsible for all other notes in this family. The introduction of this larger denomination is intended to cut costs and streamline economic transactions.
Guyana new 50-dollar commemorative note (B119) confirmed
07 06, 2016 10:41 Category: South America | Commemorative
According to an article in Guyana Chronicle dated 12 May 2016, the Bank of Guyana is commemorating the nation's 50 years of independence by issuing a new 50-dollar banknote as well as new 2,000- and 5,000-dollar coins struck by the Mint of Norway.
B119 (PNL): 50 dollars (US$0.25)
Brown, tan, red, and green. Front: Silhouettes of standing people in line; bank logo; map; 50th Independence Anniversary logo with jaguar. Back: National flower, Victoria amazonica (giant waterlily); tree branch; map on flag; doves in flight. Windowed security thread with demetalized GUYANA. Watermark: Red Macaw parrot head and electrotype 50. Printer: (TDLR). 156 x 65 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 15. Prefix AA. Intro: 12.05.2016.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Hemmy Bhola, Alex Zlotin, and Arnoldo Efron (Monetary Research Institute).
B119 (PNL): 50 dollars (US$0.25)
Brown, tan, red, and green. Front: Silhouettes of standing people in line; bank logo; map; 50th Independence Anniversary logo with jaguar. Back: National flower, Victoria amazonica (giant waterlily); tree branch; map on flag; doves in flight. Windowed security thread with demetalized GUYANA. Watermark: Red Macaw parrot head and electrotype 50. Printer: (TDLR). 156 x 65 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 15. Prefix AA. Intro: 12.05.2016.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Hemmy Bhola, Alex Zlotin, and Arnoldo Efron (Monetary Research Institute).
Great Britain new 5-pound polymer note unveiled for 13.09.2016 introduction
02 06, 2016 08:20 Category: Europe
The Bank of England has printed 440 million polymer 5-pound notes it plans to introduce 13 September 2016. A new 10-pound polymer note featuring Jane Austen is scheduled to be introduced in mid-2017. A new 20-pound polymer note featuring J.M.W. Turner is expected in 2020. The bank has not yet decided if or when it will introduce a new 50-pound note, nor if it will be paper or polymer.
Courtesy of Antje Bird.
Saudi Arabia reportedly to replace 1-riyal note (B130) with 2-riyal coin
02 06, 2016 07:59 Category: Middle East
According to an ArabNews article dated 1 June 2016, the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency plans to replace the 1-riyal note (B130) with a 2-riyal coin.
Courtesy of Brian Lema.
Courtesy of Brian Lema.
Ceylon chapter of The Banknote Book is now complete
02 06, 2016 06:20 Category: The Banknote Book | South Asia
The Ceylon chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 40-page catalog covers notes issued by the Ceylon General Treasury from 1827 to 1855, the Government of Ceylon from 1809 to 1949, and the Central Bank of Ceylon from 1951 to 1985. Revised 3 June 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
Thailand new 70-baht commemorative note confirmed
30 05, 2016 12:24 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
According to a press release dated 30 May 2016, on 9 June 2016, the Bank of Thailand will introduce a 70-baht note to commemorate the 70th anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's accession to the throne. 20 million notes are being sold with a leaflet as numismatic products for 100 baht. With a vertical orientation, the note measures 89 x 162 mm. The front of the banknote depicts King Bhumibol Adulyadej in the uniform of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the Royal House of Chakra gown with the Most Illustrious Order of the Royal House of Chakri, and the Knight Grand Cordon (Special Class) of the Most Illustrious Order of Chula Chom Klao breast chain. The back of the note depicts the King in full regalia holding the Sword of Victory, standing in front of the Phuttan Kanchanasinghat Throne inside the Paisan Taksin Hall.
Courtesy of Frank Schirmer and Thomas Augustsson.
Bolivia new note family reportedly planned for 2018 introduction
30 05, 2016 12:12 Category: South America
According to a television news report from 6 May 2016, in 2018 the Banco Central de Bolivia intends to introduce a new note family with denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 bolivianos.
Courtesy of Fran Pas.
Courtesy of Fran Pas.
New Zealand new 20-, 50-, and 100-dollar notes introduced 16.05.2016
30 05, 2016 12:08 Category: Oceania
According to a press release, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand introduced its new 20-, 50-, and 100-dollar notes on 16 May 2016. This completes the new family of notes; the 5- and 10-dollar notes were issued on 12 October 2015.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
South Korea 2018 Winter Olympics commemorative note reported
30 05, 2016 07:15 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
According to an article on Yonhap News Agency dated 29 May 2016, the Bank of Korea plans to issue the country's first legal tender commemorative banknote for the Winter Olympics set to take place in PyeongChang 9 - 25 February 2018. The Bank of Korea also plans to start selling sets of commemorative coins in November, composed of two gold, eight silver and one bronze.
Somalia reportedly to issue new official notes in early 2017
27 05, 2016 12:18 Category: Africa
According to a Bloomberg article dated 27 May 2016, Somalia plans to print new official banknotes that will circulate in parallel with US dollars by early 2017. The International Monetary Fund is helping Somalia print and circulate the currency, said Bashir Issa Ali, governor of Somalia’s central bank. Most Somali shillings currently in circulation were printed by warlords, not the federal government in Mogadishu.
Libya's rival currencies reportedly will circulate in parallel
27 05, 2016 12:11 Category: Africa
The latest reports out of Libya indicate that the Presidency Council of the United Nations-backed Government of National Accord has reversed its previous rejection of the new banknotes which were printed in Russia for the Thinni government in Beida. Although similar in design and size to the existing notes issued by the internationally-recognized Central Bank of Libya in Tripoli, the new notes have different security features, watermarks, and serial numbers.
The rival Central Banks in Tripoli and Beida will apparently jointly supervise the issue of new notes which will circulate throughout the country to alleviate the cash shortage. The new Russian-printed note are to be issued on 1 June 2016.
The rival Central Banks in Tripoli and Beida will apparently jointly supervise the issue of new notes which will circulate throughout the country to alleviate the cash shortage. The new Russian-printed note are to be issued on 1 June 2016.
Serbia new sig/date (2016) 5,000-dinara note (B422) confirmed
27 05, 2016 11:43 Category: Europe
B422: Like B413, but new date (2016), new signature (Jorgovanka Tabaković), and the national coat of arms on back is more detailed, in accordance with the Decree on Establishing the Original Great and Small Coat-of-Arms, Flag and National Anthem of the Republic of Serbia, No. 85 of 15 November 2010.
Courtesy of
Costa Rica chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
26 05, 2016 14:15 Category: The Banknote Book | Central America
The Costa Rica chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 27-page catalog covers notes issued by the Banco Central de Costa Rica (Central Bank of Costa Rica) from 1950 to present. Published 27 May 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
Libya new competing 20- and 50-dinar notes reportedly to be introduced 01.06.2016
25 05, 2016 11:57 Category: Africa
According to an article in The Libya Observer dated 25 May 2016, the eastern Central Bank of Libya (based in the city of Bayda, not the capital Tripoli) plans to introduce new 20- and 50-dinar notes on 1 June 2016. 4-billion dinars worth of new notes were reportedly printed in Russia (likely by Goznak) and bear the signature of Governor Ali Al-Hibri, the rival for Tripoli-based Governor Al-Siddig Al-Kabir. The new notes will reportedly circulate in parallel with the existing notes of the same denominations (B544 and B545, respectively). The designs of both are very similar, though there are slight changes to the security features, and the serial number at right front is horizontal, not vertical, and neither serial number has ascending size digits.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Hong Kong Standard Chartered Bank new date (01.01.2014) 1,000-dollar note (B423d) confirmed
22 05, 2016 10:21 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B422d: Like B422c, but new date (1st JANUARY 2014). Prefix BN.
Courtesy of Wally Myers.
Hong Kong Standard Chartered Bank new date (01.01.2014) 500-dollar note (B421d) confirmed
22 05, 2016 10:20 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B421d: Like B421c, but new date (1st JANUARY 2014). Prefix BT.
Courtesy of Wally Myers.
Libya may soon have competing dinars issued by two different banks
22 05, 2016 09:41 Category: Africa
These images are reportedly of the dinar notes intended for the bank in eastern Libya.
According to an article in The Guardian dated 20 May 2016, there are reports that Libya's unity government may be undermined by the introduction of two different sets of new dinar notes from competing central banks: the UN-recognized Tripoli government led by Fayez Sarraj and the Tobruk-based parliament loyal to General Khalifa Haftar in the east. Apparently De La Rue has recently delivered new notes to the Tripoli bank, whereas Ali Salim al-Hibri, once recognized as the bank governor by the International Monetary Fund, claims to have printed dinars with the help of the Russian state (Goznak). While no images of either notes are yet available, "The two currencies would have different serial numbers, security details and watermarks, diplomats say."
Courtesy of Mark Irwin and Raphael Dvir.
Eritrea new note family (B113 - B117) confirmed
22 05, 2016 09:34 Category: Africa
According to an article in TesfaNews dated 29 November 2015, the Bank of Eritrea began replacing preceding issues at par with these new notes from 18 November to the end of 2015. During November, individuals and entities could deposit any amount of money in their accounts, but during December, deposits and exchanges were limited to 20,000 nakfa. On 1 January 2016, the old nakfa notes was demonetized. The move was meant to harm black marketeers who hoard large sums of money for informal foreign currency exchange, money laundering, counterfeiting, and contraband purposes.
The 100-nakfa note (B110) had been printed in 2011 but held in storage and released only now in late 2015. All the other notes in this new family are dated 24.5.2015 and begin with AA prefixes, indicating a new family, but the 100-nakfa is dated 24.5.2011 and has prefix AJ - AN.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
The 100-nakfa note (B110) had been printed in 2011 but held in storage and released only now in late 2015. All the other notes in this new family are dated 24.5.2015 and begin with AA prefixes, indicating a new family, but the 100-nakfa is dated 24.5.2011 and has prefix AJ - AN.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Sudan new sig/date (2015) 50-pound note (B105b) confirmed
21 05, 2016 00:06 Category: Africa
Like B105a, but new date, new signature, and matte denominations in corners. Prefix AE.
Courtesy of Hamid Kazemi.
Uruguay new 2,000-peso uruguayo note (B558) confirmed
16 05, 2016 10:05 Category: South America
According to a press release dated 27 April 2016, the Banco Central del Uruguay has introduced a revised 2,000-peso series B note (B558) dated 2015 which is like the existing note (B551) of the same denomination, but with several significant changes to the security features, including denomination as registration device, holographic windowed security thread, translucent features, map of Uruguay in OVI, iridescent stripes, intaglio marks for the sight impaired. Series A notes will continue to circulate in parallel.
B558 (PNL): 2,000 pesos uruguayos (US$90)
Black, yellow, purple, and blue. Front: Denomination as registration device; coat of arms; laurels, buff-necked ibis (Theristicus caudatus) bird, and microscope; Dámaso Antonio Larrañaga; map of Uruguay in purple OVI. Back: Biblioteca Nacional 26 de Mayo de 1816 (National Library 26 May 1816); laurels, buff-necked ibis (Theristicus caudatus) bird, and microscope. Holographic windowed security thread. Watermark: José Gervasio Artigas and electrotype Dos Mil and 2000 stacked three times. Printer: OBERTHUR technologies. 159 x 74 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 30. Serie B. Intro: 27.04.2016.
Courtesy of Arnoldo Efron (MRI Guide).
B558 (PNL): 2,000 pesos uruguayos (US$90)
Black, yellow, purple, and blue. Front: Denomination as registration device; coat of arms; laurels, buff-necked ibis (Theristicus caudatus) bird, and microscope; Dámaso Antonio Larrañaga; map of Uruguay in purple OVI. Back: Biblioteca Nacional 26 de Mayo de 1816 (National Library 26 May 1816); laurels, buff-necked ibis (Theristicus caudatus) bird, and microscope. Holographic windowed security thread. Watermark: José Gervasio Artigas and electrotype Dos Mil and 2000 stacked three times. Printer: OBERTHUR technologies. 159 x 74 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 30. Serie B. Intro: 27.04.2016.
Courtesy of Arnoldo Efron (MRI Guide).
How to design beautiful banknotes
13 05, 2016 13:47 Category: Miscellaneous
Check out this interesting DesignWeek article on "How to design beautiful banknotes."
Korea chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
12 05, 2016 22:44 Category: The Banknote Book | East and Southeast Asia
The Korea chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 19-page catalog covers notes issued by the Treasury Department in 1893, the First National Bank from 1902 to 1909, the Bank of Korea from 1910 to 1911, the Bank of Chosen from 1914 to 1947, and the Red Army Headquarters from 1945 to 1946. Published 13 May 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
Macau new 10-pataca commemorative notes (B187, B188) confirmed
10 05, 2016 09:44 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
B187 (PNL): 10 patacas (US$1.25)
Red, orange, and green. Front: Flower and monkey; Chinese zodiac; 10 in SPARK; Chinese lantern. Back: Banco Nacional Ultramarino headquarters building; children with fireworks outside the Templo de A-Má (temple of A-Ma) building; flower and monkey. 4-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized 10. Watermark: Lotus flower and electrotype 10. Printer: (HKNPL). 138 x 69 mm.
a. 1 DE JANEIRO DE 2016. Intro: 09.05.2016.
B188 (PNL): 10 patacas (US$1.25)
Red, orange, and green. Front: Flower and rooster; Chinese zodiac; 10 in SPARK; Chinese lantern. Back: Banco Nacional Ultramarino headquarters building; children with fireworks outside the Templo de A-Má (temple of A-Ma) building; flower and rooster. 4-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized 10. Watermark: Lotus flower and electrotype 10. Printer: (HKNPL). 138 x 69 mm.
a. 1 DE JANEIRO DE 2017. Intro: 09.05.2016.
Courtesy of
Macau new 10-pataca commemorative notes (B223, B224) confirmed
10 05, 2016 09:22 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
B223 (PNL): 10 patacas (US$1.25)
Red, orange, and green. Front: Flower and monkey; Chinese zodiac; bank logo; 10 in SPARK; Chinese lantern. Back: Banco da China headquarters building in Macau; children with fireworks outside the Templo de A-Má (temple of A-Ma) building; flower and monkey. 4-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized 10. Watermark: Lotus flower and electrotype 10. Printer: (HKNPL). 138 x 69 mm.
a. 01.01.2016 in Chinese. Signature 4. Intro: 09.05.2016.
B224 (PNL): 10 patacas (US$1.25)
Red, orange, and green. Front: Flower and rooster; Chinese zodiac; bank logo; 10 in SPARK; Chinese lantern. Back: Banco da China headquarters building in Macau; children with fireworks outside the Templo de A-Má (temple of A-Ma) building; flower and rooster. 4-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized 10. Watermark: Lotus flower and electrotype 10. Printer: (HKNPL). 138 x 69 mm.
a. 01.01.2017 in Chinese. Signature 4. Intro: 09.05.2016.
Courtesy of
Dominican Republic new date (2015) 100-peso dominicano note confirmed
08 05, 2016 11:21 Category: Caribbean
Like P190, but new date (2015). Prefix CN.
Courtesy of Hans-Dieter Müller.
Namibia new date (2016) 50-dollar note (B211b) confirmed
08 05, 2016 08:13 Category: Africa
Like B211a, but new date (2016). Prefix G.
Courtesy of Heinrich Lindner.
Indonensia new date (2011) 50,000-rupiah note (B602g) confirmed
08 05, 2016 08:01 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B602g: Like B602f, but new date (2011/2005). Prefix DOK.
Courtesy of Peter Mosselberger (http://www.banknote.ws).
Zimbabwe intends to issue new dollar-denominated "bond notes"
05 05, 2016 07:46 Category: Africa
According to a press release dated 4 May 2016, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, blaming a cash shortage of US dollars on the strength of the US dollar, intends to convert all USD exchange receipts into South African rand and euros in an effort to "spread the demand for cash amongst a wide range of currencies and in order to mitigate against concentration risk."
Furthermore, "In order to mitigate against possible abuses of this [USD200 million foreign exchange and export incentive facility] through capital flight, this facility shall be granted to qualifying foreign exchange earners in bond coins and notes which shall continue to operate alongside the currencies within the multi-currency system and at par with the USD. The Zimbabwe Bond Notes of denominations of $2, $5, $10 and $20 shall, therefore be introduced in future, as an extension of the current family of bond coins for ease of portability in view of the size of the USD200 million backed facility."
Anyone interested in a glimpse into modern Zimbabwe politics is encouraged to watch Democrats, a great documentary about the struggles to form a new constitution:
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Furthermore, "In order to mitigate against possible abuses of this [USD200 million foreign exchange and export incentive facility] through capital flight, this facility shall be granted to qualifying foreign exchange earners in bond coins and notes which shall continue to operate alongside the currencies within the multi-currency system and at par with the USD. The Zimbabwe Bond Notes of denominations of $2, $5, $10 and $20 shall, therefore be introduced in future, as an extension of the current family of bond coins for ease of portability in view of the size of the USD200 million backed facility."
Anyone interested in a glimpse into modern Zimbabwe politics is encouraged to watch Democrats, a great documentary about the struggles to form a new constitution:
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
European Central Bank to retire 500-euro note (B107) in 2018
04 05, 2016 11:42 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 4 May 2016, the European Central Bank will discontinue production and issuance of the 500-euro banknote (B107) in 2018, though existing notes will remain legal tender. The new Europa series will not include the 500-euro denomination.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.
Madagascar new signature 100-ariary note (B320c) confirmed
03 05, 2016 09:42 Category: Africa
B320c: Like B320b, but new signature. Prefix/suffix C/A.
Courtesy of Thomas Neldner.
India new date (2016) 100-rupee note (B289h) confirmed
02 05, 2016 19:34 Category: South Asia
Malaysia central bank appoints new governor as of 01.05.2016
27 04, 2016 11:22 Category: East and Southeast Asia
According to a Bank Negara Malaysia press release dated 27 April 2016, deputy governor Datuk Muhammad Ibrahim has been appointed as the new governor for five years, effective from 1 May 2016, following the retirement of the current governor, Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akthar Aziz. Expect new signature varieties to follow.
Courtesy of Liew Siang Ping.
Scotland new 5- and 10-pound polymer note designs unveiled
25 04, 2016 11:36 Category: Europe
According to a Royal Bank of Scotland press release dated 25 April 2016, Scottish poet and novelist Nan Shepherd will appear on a new batch of polymer £5 notes. The writer joins scientist Mary Somerville, who was chosen for the new £10 note in a public poll, meaning women will feature on RBS main issue notes for the first time. Shepherd was an English lecturer at Aberdeen College of Education but also wrote novels, poetry and non-fiction, with the Scottish landscape and weather a major influence on her work. The back of the new notes have a nature theme with two mackerel displayed on the £5 note and two otters on the £10.
The new 5-pound note will be introduced later in 2016, and the 10-pound note will be introduced in 2017.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Ghana central bank new governor appointed as of 01.04.2016
23 04, 2016 07:36 Category: Africa
According to a press release, "Dr. Abdul-Nashiru Issahaku has been appointed by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana as the Governor of the Bank of Ghana with effect from Friday, April 1, 2016." Expect new signature varieties to follow.
Courtesy of Merjim Groen.
Courtesy of Merjim Groen.
England new 20-pound note reported for 2020 introduction
22 04, 2016 15:48 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 22 April 2016, the Bank of England has announced that J.M.W. Turner will appear on the next 20-pound polymer banknote due to be issued by 2020.
Commenting on the decision, Bank of England Governor, Mark Carney said: “I am delighted to announce that J.M.W. Turner has been chosen to appear on the next £20 note. Turner is perhaps the single most influential British artist of all time. His work was transformative, bridging the classical and modern worlds. His influence spanned his lifetime and is still apparent today. Turner bequeathed this painting to the nation, an example of his important contribution to British society."
As shown in the concept image, the design on the reverse of the note will include:
- J.M.W. Turner’s self-portrait, painted c. 1799 and currently on display in the Tate Britain.
- One of Turner’s most eminent paintings The Fighting Temeraire; a tribute to the ship HMS Temeraire which played a distinguished role in Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
- The quote - “Light is therefore colour” from an 1818 lecture by Turner referring to his innovative use of light, shade, colour and tone in his pictures.
- Turner’s signature from his Will, the document with which he bequeathed many of his paintings to the nation.
The full design of the note and its security features will be unveiled closer to it entering circulation.
Courtesy of Antje Bird, James Cadman, and Mark Irwin.
Malawi new 200-kwacha note (B160) reported
22 04, 2016 10:45 Category: Africa
Like B153, but new date, new signature, and hollow 200 at lower center front. Awaiting scans of back to confirm new issue.
Courtesy of Jefferson Ritson and Garry Craig.
New Zealand 5-dollar note (B137) named IBNS Bank Note of 2015
22 04, 2016 10:37 Category: Oceania
According to an announcement on the IBNS web site, New Zealand's 5-dollar note (B137) has been chosen by the IBNS Membership as the Banknote of 2015.
South Sudan new 20-pound note (B113) confirmed
22 04, 2016 10:27 Category: Africa
Like B108, but 20 pounds, not 25 pounds, plus dated 2015 and new signature. Prefix AA.
Courtesy of Hamid Kazemi (banknoteswholesale
South Sudan new 10-pound note (B112) confirmed
22 04, 2016 10:22 Category: Africa
Like B107, but green, not blue, plus dated 2015 and new signature. Prefix AL.
Courtesy of Hamid Kazemi (banknoteswholesale
Persia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
21 04, 2016 10:10 Category: The Banknote Book | Middle East
The Persia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 12-page catalog covers notes issued by the Imperial Bank of Persia from 1890 to 1932. Published 22 April 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
United States new 5-, 10-, and 20-dollar note designs to be unveiled in 2020
21 04, 2016 08:37 Category: North America
According to an announcement by the United States Department of the Treasury on 20 April 2016, Alexander Hamilton will not be removed from the 10-dollar note to make way for a woman. Instead, Harriet Tubman (whose life was dedicated to fighting for liberty) will replace President Andrew Jackson on the front of the new 20-dollar note, though Jackson's image will appear on the back of the new note. The 5-dollar note will also be redesigned, and it's hoped that all three new designs will be unveiled in 2020 in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.
Poland new 20-zlotych commemorative (BNP820) confirmed introduced on 12.04.2016
21 04, 2016 08:35 Category: Europe | Commemorative
According to the Narodowy Bank Pokski's prospectus for 2016, in April 2016 the bank planned to introduce 30,000 pieces of a 20-zlotych banknote commemorating the 1,050th anniversary of the “Baptism of Poland,” when King Miezko I and the majority of his court were baptized in 966 AD.
The bank has more recently posted a notice on its site indicating that up to 35,000 pieces of the note will be introduced on 12 April 2016.
BNP820 (PNL): 20 złotych (US$6.55)
Blue and red. Front: Coat of arms with crowned eagle; Dobrawa (Doubravka of Bohemia) and King Miezko I; ornate cross; floor plan of church as registration device. Back: Floor plan of church; Gniezno Cathedral; royal chalice of Trzemeszno. Windowed security thread with demetalized NBP 20. Watermark: Unknown with electrotype 20. Printer: (PWPW). 144 x 77 mm.
a. 23 LISTOPADA 2015. Signature 17. Prefix AB. Intro: 12.04.2016.
Courtesy of Jan Bogus and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
The bank has more recently posted a notice on its site indicating that up to 35,000 pieces of the note will be introduced on 12 April 2016.
BNP820 (PNL): 20 złotych (US$6.55)
Blue and red. Front: Coat of arms with crowned eagle; Dobrawa (Doubravka of Bohemia) and King Miezko I; ornate cross; floor plan of church as registration device. Back: Floor plan of church; Gniezno Cathedral; royal chalice of Trzemeszno. Windowed security thread with demetalized NBP 20. Watermark: Unknown with electrotype 20. Printer: (PWPW). 144 x 77 mm.
a. 23 LISTOPADA 2015. Signature 17. Prefix AB. Intro: 12.04.2016.
Courtesy of Jan Bogus and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Romania new date (2016) 50-leu note (B282f) confirmed
20 04, 2016 09:22 Category: Europe
Like P120, but new date (20)16.
Courtesy of Alexandru Mocanu.
Lesotho new sig/date (2013) 20-loti note (B223b) confirmed
20 04, 2016 07:16 Category: Africa
B223b: Like B223a, but new date (2013), new signature (Rets’elisitsoe A. Matlanyane), and couple removed from house doorway on back. Prefix AM.
Courtesy of
Lesotho new sig/date (2013) 100-loti note (B225b) confirmed
20 04, 2016 07:15 Category: Africa
B225b: Like B225a, but new date (2013), new signature (Rets’elisitsoe A. Matlanyane). Prefix AR.
Courtesy of
Lesotho new 200-loti note (B226) confirmed
18 04, 2016 20:05 Category: Africa
Originally reported in mid-February 2016, the Central Bank of Lesotho has introduced a new 200-loti banknote with see-through Optiks thread.
B226 (PNL): 200 maloti (US$14)
Orange. Front: Basotho hat (mokorotlo) as registration device; King Moshoeshoe II, King Letsie III, and King Moshoeshoe I; coat of arms with crocodile on shield flanked by Basotho horses; holographic patch. Back: Man on horse; Basotho hat (mokorotlo). Optiks security thread. Watermark: King Moshoeshoe I in top hat, electrotype 200 capped with Basotho hat, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 145 x 70 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 9. Prefix AA. Intro: 01.04.2016.
Courtesy of
.
B226 (PNL): 200 maloti (US$14)
Orange. Front: Basotho hat (mokorotlo) as registration device; King Moshoeshoe II, King Letsie III, and King Moshoeshoe I; coat of arms with crocodile on shield flanked by Basotho horses; holographic patch. Back: Man on horse; Basotho hat (mokorotlo). Optiks security thread. Watermark: King Moshoeshoe I in top hat, electrotype 200 capped with Basotho hat, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 145 x 70 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 9. Prefix AA. Intro: 01.04.2016.
Courtesy of
Canada new signature 5-dollar note (B371c) confirmed
15 04, 2016 10:55 Category: North America
B371c: Like B371b, but new signatures (Carolyn A. Wilkins and Stephen S. Poloz). Prefix HCM - HCR.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Pakistan new date (2016) 500-rupee note (B237k) confirmed
15 04, 2016 07:09 Category: South Asia
Like B237j, but new date (2016). Prefix EF.
Courtesy of Zeeshan Yameen.
Courtesy of Zeeshan Yameen.
Lebanon new 50,000-pound note (B542) confirmed
14 04, 2016 11:28 Category: Middle East
B542 (PNL): 50,000 livres (US$33)
Violet, blue, green, and orange. Front: Cedar tree; geometric block design; stylized boat. Back: Cedar tree; geometric block design. Windowed Motion security thread. Watermark: Cedar tree and electrotype ٥٠٠٠٠. Printer: (OT). 140 x 77 mm.
a. ٢٠١٦ (2016). Signature 12. Prefix D.
Courtesy of Claude Akl (
Lebanon new 1,000-pound note (B541) confirmed
14 04, 2016 11:27 Category: Middle East
B541 (PNL): 1,000 livres (US$0.65)
Green. Front: Cedar tree; alphabetic characters. Back: Cedar tree; alphabetic characters. 3-mm wide magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BDL 1000. Watermark: Coat of arms and electrotype ١٠٠٠. Printer: (OT). 115 x 60 mm.
a. ٢٠١٦ (2016). Signature 12. Prefix K.
Courtesy of Claude Akl (
Ukraine new sig/date (2015) 10-hryvnia note (B848d) confirmed
13 04, 2016 14:52 Category: Europe
B848d: Like B848c, but new date (2015) and new signature (Valeriia O. Gontareva). Prefix XГ.
Courtesy of Svitlana Romashko.
Ukraine new 500-hryvnia note (B855) confirmed
13 04, 2016 14:38 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 25 December 2015, on 11 April 2016 the National Bank of Ukraine introduced a new 500-hryvnia note with enhanced security features, including windowed security thread and SPARK patch.
B855 (PNL): 500 гривень (hryven) (US$23)
Beige, brown, green, blue, and pink. Front: Philosopher, poet, writer, pedagogue, and musician Hryhorii Skovoroda; coat of arms; fountain; open book with quill as gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Mohyla Academy building in Kiev; academy seal. Motion windowed security thread with demetalized 500. Solid security thread with demetalized 500 ГРН and trident. Watermark: Hryhorii Skovoroda and electrotype hyrvnia symbol (backwards S with two horizontal bars). Printer: (NBU). 154 x 75 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 9. Intro: 11.04.2016.
Courtesy of Svitlana Romashko.
B855 (PNL): 500 гривень (hryven) (US$23)
Beige, brown, green, blue, and pink. Front: Philosopher, poet, writer, pedagogue, and musician Hryhorii Skovoroda; coat of arms; fountain; open book with quill as gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Mohyla Academy building in Kiev; academy seal. Motion windowed security thread with demetalized 500. Solid security thread with demetalized 500 ГРН and trident. Watermark: Hryhorii Skovoroda and electrotype hyrvnia symbol (backwards S with two horizontal bars). Printer: (NBU). 154 x 75 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 9. Intro: 11.04.2016.
Courtesy of Svitlana Romashko.
Switzerland new 50-franc note confirmed
13 04, 2016 14:36 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 6 April 2016, the Swiss National Bank has unveiled the design of the new 50-franc note, the first denomination in a new series of notes inspired by the theme "The many facets of Switzerland." The new family consists of the same denominations as the existing family, but the notes are reduced in size for easier handling. The 50-franc note measuring 70 x 137 mm was introduced on 12 April 2016.
"Each denomination depicts a typically Swiss characteristic, which is then illustrated graphically using a range of elements. The 50-franc note focuses on the wealth of experiences Switzerland has to offer – expressed by the wind, the note’s key motif. Core design elements in the new series are the hand and the globe, which appear on every denomination."
"The new notes were designed by Manuela Pfrunder and printed by Orell Füssli Security Printing Ltd using an innovative, three-layer banknote substrate. The combination of complex security features and sophisticated design provides state-of-the-art anti-counterfeiting protection. The new series equips Switzerland with banknotes that are both more modern and more secure than the previous generation.
The next denomination, the 20-franc note, will be issued in spring 2017. The remaining notes in the series will be issued subsequently at half-yearly or yearly intervals. The SNB will announce each new issue date well in advance. Issuance of the entire series is scheduled to be completed by 2019."
Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Manfred Wolfensberger, Christof Zellweger, Antje Bird, Marco Pache, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
"Each denomination depicts a typically Swiss characteristic, which is then illustrated graphically using a range of elements. The 50-franc note focuses on the wealth of experiences Switzerland has to offer – expressed by the wind, the note’s key motif. Core design elements in the new series are the hand and the globe, which appear on every denomination."
"The new notes were designed by Manuela Pfrunder and printed by Orell Füssli Security Printing Ltd using an innovative, three-layer banknote substrate. The combination of complex security features and sophisticated design provides state-of-the-art anti-counterfeiting protection. The new series equips Switzerland with banknotes that are both more modern and more secure than the previous generation.
The next denomination, the 20-franc note, will be issued in spring 2017. The remaining notes in the series will be issued subsequently at half-yearly or yearly intervals. The SNB will announce each new issue date well in advance. Issuance of the entire series is scheduled to be completed by 2019."
Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Manfred Wolfensberger, Christof Zellweger, Antje Bird, Marco Pache, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Madagascar new signature 200-ariary note (B321c) confirmed
13 04, 2016 12:03 Category: Africa
B321c: Like B321b, but new signature. Prefix/suffix C/A.
Courtesy of Thomas Neldner.
India new 10-rupee note (B286) with novel numbering reported
13 04, 2016 06:40 Category: South Asia
According to a press release dated 13 April 2016, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue 10-rupee banknotes in the Mahatma Gandhi Series-2005, with the inset letter L, bearing the signature of Dr. Raghuram G.Rajan, Governor, Reserve Bank of India, and the year of printing ‘2016‘ printed on the reverse of the banknote.
These notes are like the current 10-rupee notes (B286), except that the numerals in both the number panels will be so-called "novel" numbers, in ascending size from left to right.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
These notes are like the current 10-rupee notes (B286), except that the numerals in both the number panels will be so-called "novel" numbers, in ascending size from left to right.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
Australia new 5-dollar note reported for 01.09.2016 introduction
12 04, 2016 10:27 Category: Oceania
According to a press release dated 12 April 2016, the Reserve Bank of Australia has released images of the new 5-dollar banknote that will be introduced on 1 September 2016.
"The images show the basic design artwork of each side of the banknote. As previously announced, key aspects of the existing design – color, size and people portrayed – are retained for ease of recognition and to minimize the disruption to businesses. There is a new ‘tactile’ feature to help the vision-impaired community distinguish between different denominations of banknotes."
Governor Glenn Stevens said, "Innovative new security features have been incorporated to help keep Australia’s banknotes secure from counterfeiting into the future. As can be seen in the images, these include a distinctive top-to-bottom window. Each banknote in the new series will depict a different species of Australian wattle and a native bird within a number of the elements. On the $5 banknote, these are the Prickly Moses wattle and the Eastern Spinebill."
"The images show the basic design artwork of each side of the banknote. As previously announced, key aspects of the existing design – color, size and people portrayed – are retained for ease of recognition and to minimize the disruption to businesses. There is a new ‘tactile’ feature to help the vision-impaired community distinguish between different denominations of banknotes."
Governor Glenn Stevens said, "Innovative new security features have been incorporated to help keep Australia’s banknotes secure from counterfeiting into the future. As can be seen in the images, these include a distinctive top-to-bottom window. Each banknote in the new series will depict a different species of Australian wattle and a native bird within a number of the elements. On the $5 banknote, these are the Prickly Moses wattle and the Eastern Spinebill."
Russia new 200- and 2,000-ruble notes reported for late 2017 introduction
According to a press release dated 12 April 2016, the Bank of Russia plans to introduce new 200- and 2,000-ruble notes by the end of 2017. These entirely new denominations are expected to enhance the convenience of cash payments, and will save time when paying for goods and services.
The current Russian banknotes depict the characters of Russian cities and regions, and this tradition will continue with the new notes, but for the first time the Russian public will get to vote on the new designs in the summer of 2016.
Courtesy of Artem Shevchenko and Alexander Petrov.
The current Russian banknotes depict the characters of Russian cities and regions, and this tradition will continue with the new notes, but for the first time the Russian public will get to vote on the new designs in the summer of 2016.
Courtesy of Artem Shevchenko and Alexander Petrov.
Indonesia new date (2016) 5,000-rupiah note (B599q) confirmed
12 04, 2016 09:48 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B599q: Like B599p, but new date (2016). Prefix NZW.
Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko.
Iran new signature 10,000-rial note (B283i) confirmed
10 04, 2016 08:18 Category: Middle East
B283i: Like B283h, but new signatures (Valiollah Seif and Ali Tayebnia). Prefix 8/44.
Courtesy of Christian Funke.
Pakistan new date (2016) 1,000-rupee note (B238n) confirmed
10 04, 2016 08:10 Category: South Asia
B238n: Like B238m, but new date (2016). Prefix KB.
Courtesy of Zeeshan Yameen.
Courtesy of Zeeshan Yameen.
West African States rumors of new 50,000-franc note are false
09 04, 2016 15:29 Category: Africa
According to an article on SeneDirect dated 1 April 2016, the Banque Centrale des Etats de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (BCEAO) plans to introduce a new 50,000-franc note on 30 April 2016. The new denomination is orange. The front of the note is inspired by information and communication technologies, illustrated by a touch pad. The back of the note depicts a pride of lions on the savannah.
However, according to Fabien Louart: There is an error in the french text: On the note, it's written "cinquante milles" (with "s" at "mille") instead of "cinquante mille"... In french the Word "mille" is never written with "s", éventuellement in plurial.
Open further examination, the image below appears to have been based upon the 5,000-franc note, with the colors changed and text manipulated, and the signature combination is from 1990.
According to a press release dated 7 April 2016, the BCEAO claims that these rumors are false.
Courtesy of Cedrian López Bosch Martineau.
However, according to Fabien Louart: There is an error in the french text: On the note, it's written "cinquante milles" (with "s" at "mille") instead of "cinquante mille"... In french the Word "mille" is never written with "s", éventuellement in plurial.
Open further examination, the image below appears to have been based upon the 5,000-franc note, with the colors changed and text manipulated, and the signature combination is from 1990.
According to a press release dated 7 April 2016, the BCEAO claims that these rumors are false.
Courtesy of Cedrian López Bosch Martineau.
South Africa chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
07 04, 2016 17:14 Category: The Banknote Book | Africa
The South Africa chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 29-page catalog covers notes issued by the South African Reserve Bank from 1921 to present. Published 8 April 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
Argentina new 10-peso note confirmed
07 04, 2016 17:13 Category: South America
Brown, green, blue, and purple. Front: Sunburst as registration device; green-to-blue OVI flower; leaves on branches; OVI patch of solider with raised flag on horseback; Manuel Belgrano in military uniform; OVI patch of Pedrito Ríos, drummer boy of Tacuarí. Back: Juana Azurduy de Padilla and Manuel Belgrano on horseback with swords raised to new flag on 27 February 1812 along Paraná River; coat of arms; sunburst. Solid security thread with demetalized $10 BCRA. Watermark: Manuel Belgrano and electrotype MB. Printer: S.E. CASA DE MONEDA. 155 x 65 mm.
a. No date. Signature Alejandro Vanoli and unknown. Suffix A. Intro: 04.04.2016.
Courtesy of Dennis Zammit and Lawrence Honaker.
Argentina new 20-peso note reported
07 04, 2016 17:11 Category: South America
The above design is similar to recently released denominations, but it is unclear if this 20-peso note will ever be introduced into circulation.
Courtesy of Dennis Zammit and Lawrence Honaker.
Argentina new 100-peso note confirmed
07 04, 2016 17:05 Category: South America
Like P358, but with diagonal lines at right/left front, new signatures, and new imprint at lower center back. Suffix AA.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
West African States new sig/date (2015) 1,000-franc note (B121Ho) confirmed
07 04, 2016 11:28 Category: Africa
Like B212Hn, but new date (2015) and new signatures.
Courtesy of Thomas Neldner.
Indonesia new date (2016) 2,000-rupiah note (B598h) confirmed
07 04, 2016 08:02 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B598h: Like B598g, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko.
Vietnam to introduce 100-dong commemorative note (BNP302) on 06.05.2016
05 04, 2016 12:32 Category: East and Southeast Asia | Commemorative
On 6 May 2016, the State Bank of Vietnam introduced this 100-đong note to commemorate the 65th anniversary of national banking in Vietnam. Not intended for circulation, individual notes were sold for VND20,000 each, or VND25,000 with a commemorative cover.
BNP302 (PNL): 100 đồng (
a. 2016. Signature: SBV Governor Nguyen Van Binh. Intro: 06.05.2016.
All notes bear prefix NH for Ngân Hàng (bank).
Courtesy of Nick Chiu.
BNP302 (PNL): 100 đồng (
a. 2016. Signature: SBV Governor Nguyen Van Binh. Intro: 06.05.2016.
All notes bear prefix NH for Ngân Hàng (bank).
Courtesy of Nick Chiu.
Mexico new sig/date (13.05.2015) 50-peso note confirmed
04 04, 2016 13:08 Category: North America
Like PNL, but new date (13 MAY. 2015), new signatures, and series P.
Courtesy of Alberto Rios.
United Arab Emirates new 200-dirham note (B241a) confirmed
04 04, 2016 11:11 Category: Middle East
According to an article in The Gulf Today dated 6 March 2013, the United Arab Emirates Central Bank intends to introduce a new 200-dirham note (B241a) with enhanced security features (OVI coat of arms and 3-mm wide, color-shifting windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 200) as well as tactile bars at the edges to assist the sight impaired.
B241 (PNL): 200 dirhams (US$54)
Tan and gold. Front: Saker falcon head as registration device; OVI coat of arms; Sheikh Zayed Sports City and Judicial Department and Sharia Court buildings in Abu Dhabi. Back: Saker falcon; UAE Central Bank headquarters building in Abu Dhabi; Saker falcon head. Holographic stripe with denomination. 3-mm wide, color-shifting windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 200. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 200 and coffee pot. Printer: Unknown. 159 x 68 mm. a. 2015 and ١٤٣٦ (AH1436). Sig 4. Prefix 004. Intro: 07.03.2016.
Courtesy of Ludek Vostal.
B241 (PNL): 200 dirhams (US$54)
Tan and gold. Front: Saker falcon head as registration device; OVI coat of arms; Sheikh Zayed Sports City and Judicial Department and Sharia Court buildings in Abu Dhabi. Back: Saker falcon; UAE Central Bank headquarters building in Abu Dhabi; Saker falcon head. Holographic stripe with denomination. 3-mm wide, color-shifting windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 200. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 200 and coffee pot. Printer: Unknown. 159 x 68 mm. a. 2015 and ١٤٣٦ (AH1436). Sig 4. Prefix 004. Intro: 07.03.2016.
Courtesy of Ludek Vostal.
Colombia new 100,000-peso note introduced 31.03.2016
02 04, 2016 11:28 Category: South America
According to a press release dated 31 March 2016, the Banco de La República de Colombia has introduced a new 100,000-peso note dated 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2014. Prefix AA.
Green. Front: Denomination in dark green-to-light green OVI; BRC as registration device; Barranquero bird (Momotus momota aequatorialis) as registration device; Sietecueros blossom (tibouchina lepidota) in green-to-blue SPARK Orbit; El Bachiller Cleofás Pérez y Hefestos (pseudonym used by Restrepo during his time as journalist); Carlos Lleras Restrepo. Back: Wax palms, the national tree, in Valle de Cocora, Quindío; Barranquero bird; Luis Vidales’s poem about wax palm; Liberty head bank seal. Solid security thread and yellow-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and bird. Watermark: Carlos Lleras Restrepo and electrotype 100. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 153 x 66 mm. a. 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2014. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Intro: 31.03.2016.
Courtesy of Guillermo Granados, Alexander Brill, Noel Jose Cuenca, George Elmbridge, Camilo Uribe.
Green. Front: Denomination in dark green-to-light green OVI; BRC as registration device; Barranquero bird (Momotus momota aequatorialis) as registration device; Sietecueros blossom (tibouchina lepidota) in green-to-blue SPARK Orbit; El Bachiller Cleofás Pérez y Hefestos (pseudonym used by Restrepo during his time as journalist); Carlos Lleras Restrepo. Back: Wax palms, the national tree, in Valle de Cocora, Quindío; Barranquero bird; Luis Vidales’s poem about wax palm; Liberty head bank seal. Solid security thread and yellow-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BRC and bird. Watermark: Carlos Lleras Restrepo and electrotype 100. Printer: IMPRENTA DE BILLETES — BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA. 153 x 66 mm. a. 8 DE AGOSTO DE 2014. Signature Escobar/Buitrago. Intro: 31.03.2016.
Courtesy of Guillermo Granados, Alexander Brill, Noel Jose Cuenca, George Elmbridge, Camilo Uribe.
Pakistan new date (2016) 10-rupee note (B231n) confirmed
02 04, 2016 10:50 Category: South Asia
B231n: Like B231m, but new date (2016). Prefix AHR.
Courtesy of Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen.
Mauritius chapter of The Banknote Book is now complete
01 04, 2016 11:14 Category: The Banknote Book | Africa
The Mauritius chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 23-page catalog covers notes issued by the Special Finance Committee in 1842, Currency Commissioners of Mauritius from 1848 to 1849, Government of Mauritius from 1860 to 1965, and Bank of Mauritius from 1967 to present. Revised 1 April 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
Comoros new signature 10,000-franc note (B310b) confirmed
30 03, 2016 04:18 Category: Africa
B310b: Like B310a, but new signatures (Mze Aboudou Mohamed Chafioun and Remy Rioux). Prefix F.
Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby
South Sudan new sig/date (2015) 5-pound note (B111) confirmed
29 03, 2016 04:18 Category: Africa
Like B106, but new date (2015), new signature (Kornelio Koriom Mayik), and matte denomination numerals in corners. Prefix AL.
Courtesy of Max Keller.
Fiji chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
24 03, 2016 15:09 Category: The Banknote Book | Oceania
The Fiji chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 42-page catalog covers notes issued by the Kingdom of Fiji Treasury, Fiji Banking & Commercial Company, Government of Fiji, Central Monetary Authority of Fiji, and Reserve Bank of Fiji from 1986 to present. Revised 24.01.2019.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
India new date (2016) 50-rupee note (B288g) confirmed
23 03, 2016 20:50 Category: South Asia
Grenada chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
20 03, 2016 14:29 Category: The Banknote Book | Caribbean
The Grenada chapter of The Banknote Book is now available as a free download to all.
This 1-page catalog covers notes issued by the Government of Grenada in 1920. Published 20 March 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
Moldova national bank appoints new governor as of 11.03.2016
20 03, 2016 11:19 Category: Europe
Sergiu Cioclea has been named the new governor of the National Bank of Moldova effective 11 March 2016.
Courtesy of Alex Klark.
Courtesy of Alex Klark.
China to replace 1-yuan note with coin
19 03, 2016 12:11 Category: East and Southeast Asia
According to an article in ShanghaiDaily.com dated 19 March 2016, the People's Bank of China is replacing the 1-yuan banknote (P895) with a coin.
Georgia's new 20- and 50-lari notes (B256 and B257) awarded Regional Banknote of the Year 2016
19 03, 2016 12:06 Category: Middle East
The 20- and 50-lari banknotes issued by the National Bank of Georgia on 1 February 2016 were honored as the Regional Banknote of the Year 2016 at Reconnaissance International’s High Security Printing Europe.
Kazakhstan hybrid 20,000-tenge note (B144a) awarded Regional Banknote of the Year 2016
19 03, 2016 11:58 Category: Central Asia
B144 is the first “full circulation” note in the world to be printed on Durasafe, a paper-polymer-paper composite substrate produced by Landqart. It was honored as the Regional Banknote of the Year 2016 at Reconnaissance International’s High Security Printing Europe. Durasafe was previously used on Morocco's commemorative 25-dirham note (B514) issued in December 2012, and will be used on Switzerland's new 20-franc note due for introduction in April 2016.
Vietnam new date (2016) 20,000-dong note (B344g) confirmed
18 03, 2016 11:24 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Nigeria new date (2015) 1,000-naira note (B229l) confirmed
17 03, 2016 08:35 Category: Africa
Nigeria new date (2016) 10-naira note (B235k) confirmed
16 03, 2016 19:08 Category: Africa
Bangladesh Bank governor Atiur Rahman resigns after US$100 million theft
15 03, 2016 23:33 Category: South Asia
According to a BBC News article dated 15 March 2016, Atiur Rahman, governor of Bangladesh Bank since 1 May 2009, has resigned after thieves stole more than US$100 million from the country's foreign currency reserves through a series of fraudulent transfers from their account at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Expect new signature varieties to be issued soon after a replacement is announced.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Guernsey new signature 1-pound note confirmed
15 03, 2016 09:37 Category: Europe
Like P52c, but new signature (Bethan Haines). Prefix X.
Courtesy of Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk).
India new date (2016) 20-rupee note inset letter R (B287e) confirmed
15 03, 2016 09:17 Category: South Asia
England to unveil new polymer 5-pound note design on 02.06.2016
12 03, 2016 16:16 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 10 March 2016, the Bank of England will unveil the design of the new polymer 5-pound banknote on 2 June 2016. The note will be introduced in September 2016, and the existing paper 5-pound note will be gradually withdrawn thereafter. The polymer 10-pound note featuring Jane Austen will be introduced in late 2017 and a new polymer 20-pound note will be introduced by 2020.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
India new date (2016) 100-rupee note inset letter R (B295b) confirmed
12 03, 2016 07:27 Category: South Asia
India new date (2016) 10-rupee note inset letter U (B286g) confirmed
12 03, 2016 07:26 Category: South Asia
India new date (2016) 10-rupee note inset letter B (B286g) confirmed
11 03, 2016 06:22 Category: South Asia
Canada asks public to nominate women to appear on new note in 2018
09 03, 2016 10:05 Category: North America
According to a press release dated 8 March 2016, the Bank of Canada is asking the public to nominate iconic Canadian women to be features on the first banknote of the next series, to be issued in 2018. Nominees must be real Canadian women who died before 15 April 1991. "At the end of the nomination period, an independent Advisory Council composed of eminent Canadian academic, cultural and thought leaders will then review the submissions. With the help of subject matter experts and additional consultation with the public, the Advisory Council will develop a short list of qualifying candidates for submission to the Minister of Finance."
Courtesy of Mark Allen.
Courtesy of Mark Allen.
Iran new security thread 100,000-rial note (B289a3) confirmed
07 03, 2016 19:30 Category: Middle East
B289a3: Like B289a2, but windowed security thread with demetalized I.R. IRAN and stylized sun.
Courtesy of David Murcek (The Monetary Unit).
Colombia new 100,000-peso note reported for introduction 31.03.2016
06 03, 2016 10:42 Category: South America
According to various news sources, the Banco de la República intends to introduce a new 100,000-peso note on 31 March 2016. The note is said to feature a portrait of President Carlos Lleras Restrepo and also contains an image of Cocora Valley, Quindio, and the wax palm, the national tree.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Philippines new date (2015) 200-peso note confirmed
04 03, 2016 09:56 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P209, but new date (2015). Prefix AL.
Courtesy of Mark Fox.
Philippines new date (2013) 200-peso note confirmed
04 03, 2016 09:56 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Like P209, but new date (2013).
Courtesy of Mark Fox.
Mexico new sig/date (10.06.2013) 1,000-peso note reported
04 03, 2016 09:50 Category: North America
Like P127, but new date (10 JUN. 2013) and new signature. Series D.
Courtesy of Mark Fox.
Courtesy of Mark Fox.
India new 100-rupee note confirmed introduced 22.01.2016
28 02, 2016 07:43 Category: South Asia
According to a press release date 22 January 2016, the Reserve Bank of India has introduced a new 100-rupee note like the preceding issues, but with novel serial numbers, diagonal bleed lines at front left and right, and enlarged triangle identification mark at upper left front.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
South Sudan new sig/date (2015) 100-pound note (B115) confirmed
27 02, 2016 07:41 Category: Africa
Like B110, but new date (2015), new signature (Kornelio Koriom Mayik), and matte denomination numerals in corners. Prefix AB.
Courtesy of Max Keller.
Brunei new date (2013) 100-dollar note (B202c) confirmed
25 02, 2016 20:54 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B202c: Like B202b, but new date (2013). Prefix D/19.
Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.
Japan chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
25 02, 2016 08:59 Category: The Banknote Book | East and Southeast Asia
The Japan chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 48-page catalog covers notes issued by the Japanese Government from 1868 to 1948, the Great Japanese Imperial National Bank from 1873 to 1878, the Bank of Japan from 1885 to present, and the Allied Military from 1945 to 1957. Published 26 February 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
Madagascar new signature 500-ariary note confirmed
24 02, 2016 10:56 Category: Africa
B322d: Like B322e, but new signature (Alain Hervé M. Rasolofondraibe). Prefix/suffix A/Z.
Courtesy of Jérémy Pureur.
Philippines new color 100-peso note introduced 01.02.2016
23 02, 2016 13:18 Category: East and Southeast Asia
According to a press release dated 29 January 2016, "The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is issuing 100-Piso banknotes with stronger mauve or violet color starting Monday, 01 February 2016, to make it more distinct from the 1000-Piso banknote. This is in response to suggestions from the public to make it easier to distinguish from the 1000-Piso banknote [P211].
Compared with the current color of the 100-Piso banknote in circulation [P208], the new 100-Piso banknote will have stronger mauve or violet color on the obverse and reverse sides. All the other features of the said banknote will remain the same.
The current 100-Piso banknotes can still be used for daily transactions for payment of goods and services and will commingle with the new 100-Piso banknotes with stronger mauve or violet color until supplies of the first version last. Henceforth, the BSP will be printing the 100-Piso with stronger mauve or violet color.
Only the old banknote series (New Design Series, NDS)[P193 - P197], launched in 1985, will no longer be acceptable in daily transactions for payment of goods and services and can only be exchanged for New Generation Currency (NGC) banknotes with authorized agent banks and the BSP until 31 December 2016."
Courtesy of Sing Chia Tan (
Thailand new signature 500-baht note confirmed
23 02, 2016 12:53 Category: East and Southeast Asia
500 baht, no date. Like unlisted 500-baht note introduced 12.05.2014, but new signatures (Minister of Finance, Apisak Tantivorawong; Governor of the Bank of Thailand, Veerathai Santiprabhob).
Courtesy of Frank Schirmer.
Venezuela new 500- and 1,000-bolivár notes reportedly planned
23 02, 2016 12:44 Category: South America
According to an article on EfectoCocuyo dated 22 February 2016 and an article in ElMundo dated 22 February 2016, the Banco Central de Venezuela is planning to introduce new 500- and 1,000-bolivár banknotes to keep up with inflation.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Lesotho new 200-loti note reported for introduction "soon"
23 02, 2016 12:37 Category: Africa
According to an article dated 17 February 2016 on the PublicEye Online, the Central Bank of Lesotho will soon introduce a new 200-loti banknote as soon as all the necessary formalities are completed. Currently the largest denomination is 100 maloti (B225, introduced in 2011).
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Belize new sig/date (01.11.2014) 20-dollar note (B327e) confirmed
23 02, 2016 11:43 Category: Central America
Like B327d, but new date (1st NOVEMBER 2014) and new signature 13h (Nestor Vasquez). Prefix DP.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Mike Prizov.
Singapore new symbol 10-dollar note (B210k) confirmed
23 02, 2016 11:28 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B210k: Like B210j, but with two hollow houses on back below SPORTS. Prefix 5QJ.
Courtesy of KK Lim (
Australia new 5-dollar polymer note to be introduced 01.09.2016
22 02, 2016 13:37 Category: Oceania
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.
Scotland announces scientist Mary Somerville to appear on new 10-pound note
22 02, 2016 13:30 Category: Europe
According to an article in The Guardian dated 10 February 2016, the new polymer 10-pound note scheduled to issued in 2017 by the Royal Bank of Scotland will feature a portrait of scientist Mary Somerville, making her the first woman other than a royal to appear on an RBS banknote.
Courtesy of Mark Irwin and David Hunter.
Courtesy of Mark Irwin and David Hunter.
Belize new sig/date (01.11.2014) 50-dollar note (B328e) confirmed
21 02, 2016 08:50 Category: Central America
Like B328d, but new date (1st NOVEMBER 2014) and new signature 13g. Prefix DK.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Israel new sig/date (2014) 20-new sheqel note (B436d) confirmed
21 02, 2016 08:43 Category: Middle East
B436d: Like B436c, but new date (2014) and new signature 15.
Courtesy of Eli Schachar.
Challenge: Identify statue on Northern Ireland notes
If you can precisely identify the proper name and location of the statue above—or have a lead which you think might be useful—please send me an email, preferably including a URL which links to evidence supporting your identification. This same statue appears at center front of Northern Ireland B615 to B808.
According to Diarmuid Curran, it's a generic vignette of Hibernia. Can anyone confirm or refute this assertion?
Chile new date (2014) 1,000-peso note (B296e) confirmed
15 02, 2016 22:50 Category: South America
Like P161, but new date (2014). Prefix AC.
Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.
Haiti new 10-gourde polymer note reported
14 02, 2016 11:52 Category: Caribbean
Like B845, but polymer. Printed in 2013 and reportedly stored in the bank's vaults, this polymer note is expected to replace the paper version of this denomination once supplies of the latter are exhausted.
Courtesy of Stane Štraus (www.polymernotes.org).
Eritrea new 1-nakfa note (B113) confirmed
14 02, 2016 11:47 Category: Africa
B113 (PNL): 1 nakfa (US$0.05)
Brown, black, and green. Front: Eritrean fighters raising EPLF flag; triptych portrait; camel as registration device. Back: Camel; children studying in outside classroom; bank logo. Windowed security thread with demetalized BANK OF ERITREA. Watermark: Camel head. Printer: Unknown. 130 x 64 mm.
a. 24.5.2015. Sig. 2. Prefix AA. Intro: 18.11.2015.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Poland new 200-złoty note (B863) confirmed
12 02, 2016 11:24 Category: Europe
According to a press release, on 12 February 2016 Narodowy Bank Polski introduced a new 200-złoty note (B863), like earlier issues, but slightly redesigned and with improved anti-counterfeiting features, including Omron rings and RollingStar Cube security thread.
Courtesy of Jan Bogus.
India new novel numbering 50-rupee note confirmed
06 02, 2016 22:30 Category: South Asia
According to a press release dated 23 September 2015, the Reserve Bank of India issued a 50-rupee note like P104, but with novel "ascending size" (i.e. novel) serial numbers.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim and Claudio Marana.
Colombia new date (30.07.2014) 2,000-peso note confirmed
06 02, 2016 22:19 Category: South America
Like P457 but new date (30 DE JULIO DE 2014).
Courtesy of Mauricio Diaz-Chavarro.
Manchukuo chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
04 02, 2016 21:26 Category: East and Southeast Asia
The Manchukuo chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 9-page catalog covers notes issued by the Central Bank of Manchou from 1932 to 1945. Published 5 February 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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US$20 off subscriptions to The Banknote Book
04 02, 2016 21:26 Category: The Banknote Book
I'll let you in on a little secret: I don't want people to buy individual chapters of The Banknote Book. I make them available only to provide an inexpensive introduction to the catalog, but my real goal is to grow the subscriber base.
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's much less expensive than buying chapters individually (224 chapters totaling US$1,592 as of January 2016), and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised—during the term of your subscription, now available with several flexible new pricing options:
The most economical option is the annual subscription with automatic renewal, saving US$20 off both the initial subscription and any subsequent renewals which will be billed automatically until cancelled. A 6-month plan is also available for those who prefer an even lower initial payment.
I'm sorry, but auto renewal is not available when paying with PayPal.
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's much less expensive than buying chapters individually (224 chapters totaling US$1,592 as of January 2016), and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised—during the term of your subscription, now available with several flexible new pricing options:
The most economical option is the annual subscription with automatic renewal, saving US$20 off both the initial subscription and any subsequent renewals which will be billed automatically until cancelled. A 6-month plan is also available for those who prefer an even lower initial payment.
I'm sorry, but auto renewal is not available when paying with PayPal.
Venezuela banknote buying binge
04 02, 2016 20:22 Category: South America
The Wall Street Journal dated 3 February 2016 has an interesting article entitled "Inflation-Wrought Venezuela Orders Bank Notes by the Planeload: Government relies on massive imports of bills from foreign printing companies to keep economy going," in which yours truly is quoted.
Maldives new banknote family confirmed introduced 26.01.2016
04 02, 2016 20:20 Category: South Asia
According to a press release dated 26 January 2016, the Maldives Monetary Authority has introduced its new family of polymer banknotes. Existing notes will circulate in parallel until 1 June 2016, and can be exchanged for new notes for a period of five years.
Courtesy of Paresh Bhandari, Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online), and Rafal Nogowczyk (Nogowczyk
Sao Tome and Principe new sig/date (31.12.2013) 20,000-dobra note (B305e) confirmed
04 02, 2016 20:00 Category: Africa
B305e: Like B305d, but new signatures and new date (31 de Dezembro de 2013). Prefix CA.
Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk (Nogowczyk
Ghana new date (01.07.2015) 1-cedi note (B145g) confirmed
03 02, 2016 09:47 Category: Africa
Like B145f, but new date (1st JULY 2015) and left serial number in serif font. Prefix GS.
Courtesy of Merjim Groen.
Ghana new date (01.07.2015) 2-cedi note (B152c) confirmed
03 02, 2016 09:46 Category: Africa
Like B152b, but new date (1st JULY 2015). Prefix BT.
Courtesy of Merjim Groen.
Jordan new sig/date (2013) 10-dinar note (B232d) confirmed
03 02, 2016 06:15 Category: Middle East
B232d: Like B232c, but new signature and new date (2013).
Courtesy of Enas Sherif and Peter Mosselberger.
Royal Bank of Scotland names 3 scientists as candidates for new 10-pound polymer note
02 02, 2016 10:47 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 31 January 2015, "Royal Bank of Scotland has named three Scottish scientists, two men and one woman, on the shortlist of candidates to appear on its first plastic 10 pound note.
The three are physicist James Clerk Maxwell, Mary Somerville, the first female member of the Royal Astronomical Society, and civil engineer Thomas Telford, known as the "Colossus of Roads".
More than 400 people took part in the selection of the 128 nominees, who had to be Scottish historical figures or people who had made a major contribution to Scotland in science and innovation.
Maxwell (1831-1879), a hero of Albert Einstein, discovered the unified theory of electricity and magnetism.
Somerville (1780-1872) was a pioneer as a female scientist when women’s participation was discouraged. Her writings ultimately led to the discovery of the planet Neptune.
Telford (1757-1843) built more than 1,000 miles of roads in his lifetime and in Scotland designed harbors, tunnels and the Caledonian Canal.
The decision on who to put on new banknotes can be controversial. The Bank of England was criticized in 2013 for the removal of the only female figure on its notes, social reformer Elizabeth Fry. Novelist Jane Austen was subsequently chosen to appear on new 10 pound notes."
The three are physicist James Clerk Maxwell, Mary Somerville, the first female member of the Royal Astronomical Society, and civil engineer Thomas Telford, known as the "Colossus of Roads".
More than 400 people took part in the selection of the 128 nominees, who had to be Scottish historical figures or people who had made a major contribution to Scotland in science and innovation.
Maxwell (1831-1879), a hero of Albert Einstein, discovered the unified theory of electricity and magnetism.
Somerville (1780-1872) was a pioneer as a female scientist when women’s participation was discouraged. Her writings ultimately led to the discovery of the planet Neptune.
Telford (1757-1843) built more than 1,000 miles of roads in his lifetime and in Scotland designed harbors, tunnels and the Caledonian Canal.
The decision on who to put on new banknotes can be controversial. The Bank of England was criticized in 2013 for the removal of the only female figure on its notes, social reformer Elizabeth Fry. Novelist Jane Austen was subsequently chosen to appear on new 10 pound notes."
Georgia new 20- and 50-lari notes (B256 and B257) confirmed
02 02, 2016 08:40 Category: Middle East
According to a press release, on 1 February 2016 the National Bank of Georgia introduced revised 20- and 50-lari notes. The revised 100-lari note previously unveiled has not yet been issued, but is still expected in 2016, along with upgraded 5- and 10-lari notes "later." Designed by Bacha Malazonia, the notes have revised designs/colors/dimensions and security features enhanced with assistance from De La Rue (England), Giesecke & Devrient (Germany), and Oberthur Fiduciare (France), although the bank has not disclosed which firm actually printed the notes.
B256 (PNL): 20 lari (US$12)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; magenta-to-green SPARK ornament; publishing house; magazine Sakartvelos Moambe and newspaper Iveria; personal belongings, including lens, watch, pen, and inkpot; publisher Ilia Chavchavadze. Back: Panorama of old Tbilisi featuring the Narikala fortress; equestrian monument to King Vakhtang Gorgasali; map of Tbilisi in the 18th century (prepared by Vakhushti Batonishvili); coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with Ilia Chavchavadze, 20, phaeton (horse-drawn carriage), and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-gold windowed security thread with demetalized 20 ლარი. Watermark: Ilia Chavchavadze with electrotype 20 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 132 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Intro: 01.02.2016.
B257 (PNL): 50 lari (US$30)
Green. Front: Denomination as registration device; green-to-gold SPARK ornament; cave monastery in Vardzia; King Tamar; XIII-century bas-relief from Pitareti Virgin Mari Monastery. Back: Astrological sign of Sagittarius from a Georgian miniature manuscript of the XII century; coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with King Tamar, 50, lari symbol, griffin, and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 50 ლარი. Watermark: King Tamar with electrotype 50 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 137 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Intro: 01.02.2016.
Courtesy of Дмитрий Чохонелидзе.
B256 (PNL): 20 lari (US$12)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; magenta-to-green SPARK ornament; publishing house; magazine Sakartvelos Moambe and newspaper Iveria; personal belongings, including lens, watch, pen, and inkpot; publisher Ilia Chavchavadze. Back: Panorama of old Tbilisi featuring the Narikala fortress; equestrian monument to King Vakhtang Gorgasali; map of Tbilisi in the 18th century (prepared by Vakhushti Batonishvili); coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with Ilia Chavchavadze, 20, phaeton (horse-drawn carriage), and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-gold windowed security thread with demetalized 20 ლარი. Watermark: Ilia Chavchavadze with electrotype 20 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 132 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Intro: 01.02.2016.
B257 (PNL): 50 lari (US$30)
Green. Front: Denomination as registration device; green-to-gold SPARK ornament; cave monastery in Vardzia; King Tamar; XIII-century bas-relief from Pitareti Virgin Mari Monastery. Back: Astrological sign of Sagittarius from a Georgian miniature manuscript of the XII century; coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with King Tamar, 50, lari symbol, griffin, and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 50 ლარი. Watermark: King Tamar with electrotype 50 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 137 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Intro: 01.02.2016.
Courtesy of Дмитрий Чохонелидзе.
Singapore new symbol (star) 2-dollar note (B208h) confirmed
01 02, 2016 19:19 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B208h: Like B208g, but one star on back below EDUCATION. Intro: 2015.
Courtesy of Bin Hao.
Zambia new 100-kwacha note (B164) confirmed
01 02, 2016 19:08 Category: Africa
Like B157, but with tactile diagonal lines for the visually impaired intaglio printed at center right front, new date (2015), new signature (Denny Kalyalya), and new printer imprint at lower right back (Giesecke & Devrient). Prefix FK-12.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Zambia new 50-kwacha note (B163a) confirmed
01 02, 2016 19:07 Category: Africa
Like B156, but with tactile diagonal lines for the visually impaired intaglio printed at center right front, new date (2015), new signature (Denny Kalyalya), and new printer imprint at lower right back (Giesecke & Devrient). Prefix EH-12.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Zambia new 20-kwacha note (B162) confirmed
01 02, 2016 19:07 Category: Africa
Like B155, but with tactile diagonal lines for the visually impaired intaglio printed at center right front, new date (2015), new signature (Denny Kalyalya), and new printer imprint at lower right back (Giesecke & Devrient). Prefix DJ-12.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Zambia new 10-kwacha note (B161) confirmed
01 02, 2016 19:05 Category: Africa
Like B154, but with tactile diagonal lines for the visually impaired intaglio printed at center right front, new date (2015), new signature (Denny Kalyalya), and new printer imprint at lower right back (Giesecke & Devrient). Prefix CK-12.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Venezuela new sig/date (19.08.2014) 100-bolívar note confirmed
01 02, 2016 11:59 Category: South America
Like P93, but new date (19 DE AGOSTO DE 2014) and new signatures. Prefix AF.
Courtesy of Manuel Vandenbrande (http://rainbowstampsandcoins.blogspot.com).
Venezuela new date (24.05.2007) 100-bolívar note confirmed
01 02, 2016 11:57 Category: South America
Like P93, but new date (24 DE MAYO DE 2007). Prefix A.
Courtesy of Manuel Vandenbrande (http://rainbowstampsandcoins.blogspot.com).
Venezuela new sig/date (19.08.2014) 50-bolívar note confirmed
01 02, 2016 11:56 Category: South America
Like P92, but new date (19 DE AGOSTO DE 2014) and new signatures. Prefix Y.
Courtesy of Manuel Vandenbrande (http://rainbowstampsandcoins.blogspot.com).
Venezuela new sig/date (29.10.2013) 50-bolívar note confirmed
01 02, 2016 11:55 Category: South America
Like P92, but new date (29 DE OCTUBRE DE 2013) and new signatures. Prefix X.
Courtesy of Manuel Vandenbrande (http://rainbowstampsandcoins.blogspot.com).
Venezuela new sig/date (19.08.2014) 10-bolívar note confirmed
01 02, 2016 11:54 Category: South America
Like P90, but new date (19 DE AGOSTO DE 2014) and new signatures. Prefix V.
Courtesy of Manuel Vandenbrande (http://rainbowstampsandcoins.blogspot.com).
Venezuela new sig/date (29.10.2013) 5-bolívar note confirmed
01 02, 2016 11:52 Category: South America
Like P89, but new date (29 DE OCTUBRE DE 2013) and new signatures. Prefix R. This note was reported printed by Casa da Moeda do Brasil, though it carries the CASA DE LA MONEDA-VENEZUELA imprint at lower right back.
Courtesy of Manuel Vandenbrande (http://rainbowstampsandcoins.blogspot.com).
Bangladesh new date (2015) 1,000-taka note (B354e) confirmed
27 01, 2016 11:15 Category: South Asia
Colombia new date (30.08.2013) 2,000-peso note confirmed
26 01, 2016 14:23 Category: South America
Like P457, but new date (30 DE AGOSTO DE 2013). Intro: 14.08.2015.
Courtesy of Andrés Collazos.
Colombia new date (29.08.2013) 2,000-peso note confirmed
26 01, 2016 14:21 Category: South America
Like P457, but new date (29 DE AGOSTO DE 2013). Intro: 25.02.2015.
Courtesy of Andrés Collazos.
Sudan new sig/date (03.2015) 10-pound note (B409b) confirmed
26 01, 2016 08:18 Category: Africa
Like B409a, but new date (MARCH 2015) and new signature. Prefix DC.
Courtesy of John Miskell.
Hong Kong new sig/date (01.07.2015) 500-dollar note (B819e) confirmed
26 01, 2016 08:18 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B819e: Like B819d, but new date (1 JULY 2015) and new signature (Yue Yi). Prefix EK - EM.
Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.
Denmark new date (2015) 100-krone note (B936d) confirmed
25 01, 2016 10:56 Category: Europe
B936d: Like B936c, but new date (2015) and new prefix B2.
Courtesy of Frede Hansen.
Norway unveils designs of new "The Sea" note family
24 01, 2016 09:25 Category: Europe
On 7 October 2014, Norges Bank (Norway’s central bank) presented the results of its ongoing banknote competition. The new theme will be “The Sea.” A press release revealed the proposed design for the 100-kroner note. The first notes from the new series are not expected to be issued until 2017 at the earliest.
Subsequently on 3 February 2015, Norges Bank unveiled the designs for the remaining denominations. The fronts of the notes will be developed on the basis of the proposal from The Metric System and Terje Tønnessen. The backs of the notes will be the pixel motifs submitted by Snøhetta Design. Please note that the designs of the finished notes may deviate somewhat from the competition proposals as shown below.
On each obverse side, the designer has placed a signal flag from the maritime alphabet. The flags represent the letters N, O, R, G and E and therefore spell either NORGE or NOREG (not in order by denomination).
The cubic patterns on the reverse side represent pixels and mosaics. The patterns depict the coast, the horizon and the motif. The organic pattern is an abstraction of the sea. Both the cubic and organic patterns follow the Beaufort scale as an expression of wind speed. This affects the waves in the sea. On the lowest denomination note, the wind is light, and there are short cubic forms and long, gentle waves in the organic pattern. On the highest denomination note, the wind is strong and creates elongated rectangular forms and short waves.
Motif: Utvær Lighthouse in Sogn og Fjordane, Norway's westernmost point. Signal flag: Letter R.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Lighthouse on the horizon. Cubic pattern: 1.6 metres per second (m/s). Organic pattern: Light breeze, gentle waves.
Motif: The Gokstad ship from the 800s, with the Norwegian-designed X-Bow hull developed by Ulstein Design & Solutions AS in the background. Signal flag: Letter O.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Cargo ship. Cubic pattern: 3.4 m/s. Organic pattern: Gentle breeze. Crests begin to break.
Motif: Cod and herring. The background drawing shows mesh from a fishing net. Signal flag: Letter N.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Fishing boat. Cubic pattern: 8 m/s. Organic pattern: Fresh breeze. Wave heights of 1 m or more.
Colin Archer, boat design. Anders Beer Wilse, photographer. Linn Krogh Hansen, photographer.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Oil platform. Cubic pattern: 13.9 m/s. Organic pattern: High wind. Sea heaps up, white foam from breaking waves.
Motif: Wave in the sea. Signal flag: Letter E.
Pixel motif: Horizon. Cubic pattern: 20.8 m/s. Organic pattern: Strong gale. High waves. Dense foam is blown along wind direction.
Courtesy of Josema Peso.
Subsequently on 3 February 2015, Norges Bank unveiled the designs for the remaining denominations. The fronts of the notes will be developed on the basis of the proposal from The Metric System and Terje Tønnessen. The backs of the notes will be the pixel motifs submitted by Snøhetta Design. Please note that the designs of the finished notes may deviate somewhat from the competition proposals as shown below.
On each obverse side, the designer has placed a signal flag from the maritime alphabet. The flags represent the letters N, O, R, G and E and therefore spell either NORGE or NOREG (not in order by denomination).
The cubic patterns on the reverse side represent pixels and mosaics. The patterns depict the coast, the horizon and the motif. The organic pattern is an abstraction of the sea. Both the cubic and organic patterns follow the Beaufort scale as an expression of wind speed. This affects the waves in the sea. On the lowest denomination note, the wind is light, and there are short cubic forms and long, gentle waves in the organic pattern. On the highest denomination note, the wind is strong and creates elongated rectangular forms and short waves.
Motif: Utvær Lighthouse in Sogn og Fjordane, Norway's westernmost point. Signal flag: Letter R.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Lighthouse on the horizon. Cubic pattern: 1.6 metres per second (m/s). Organic pattern: Light breeze, gentle waves.
Motif: The Gokstad ship from the 800s, with the Norwegian-designed X-Bow hull developed by Ulstein Design & Solutions AS in the background. Signal flag: Letter O.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Cargo ship. Cubic pattern: 3.4 m/s. Organic pattern: Gentle breeze. Crests begin to break.
Motif: Cod and herring. The background drawing shows mesh from a fishing net. Signal flag: Letter N.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Fishing boat. Cubic pattern: 8 m/s. Organic pattern: Fresh breeze. Wave heights of 1 m or more.
Colin Archer, boat design. Anders Beer Wilse, photographer. Linn Krogh Hansen, photographer.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Oil platform. Cubic pattern: 13.9 m/s. Organic pattern: High wind. Sea heaps up, white foam from breaking waves.
Motif: Wave in the sea. Signal flag: Letter E.
Pixel motif: Horizon. Cubic pattern: 20.8 m/s. Organic pattern: Strong gale. High waves. Dense foam is blown along wind direction.
Courtesy of Josema Peso.
India admits error with new 1,000-rupee note without security thread
24 01, 2016 09:07 Category: South Asia
The Reserve Bank of India has admitted that a batch of notes with prefix 5AG and 3AP and inset letter L were produced in error without the windowed security thread (illustrated in note above) and asked banks to return same for destruction.
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 10-pound polymer note unveiled
24 01, 2016 08:46 Category: Europe
On 22 January 2016, David Duffy, chief executive officer at Clydesdale Bank, unveiled the redesigned polymer 10-pound note featuring a portrait of Robert Burns on the front and views of Edinburgh and its castle on the back. The new note is expected to be introduced in 2017.
Courtesy of David Hunter.
French Oceania chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
21 01, 2016 17:59 Category: The Banknote Book | Oceania
The French Oceania chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 27-page catalog covers notes issued by the Trésor Colonial from 1890 to 1900, Caisse Agricole de Papeete from 1880, Banque de l’Indo-Chine from 1905 to 1963, Institut d’Emission d’Outre-Mer from 1969 to 1985, Chambre de Commerce from 1919, Banque André Krajewski from 1919 to 1920, Etablissements Français Libres de l’Océanie from 1941 to 1942, and Etablissements Français de l’Océanie from 1943. Published 22 January 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
Frank van Tiel collection to be auctioned by MPO on 29.01.2016
21 01, 2016 15:49 Category: Europe | Miscellaneous
On 29 January 2016, MPO, the Dutch affiliate of Heritage Auctions in Dallas, Texas, will auction the Frank van Tiel collection of Dutch and world banknotes. Frank has been a long-time contributor to The Banknote Book, and this auction features many better notes, both old and modern. Check it out, and bid to win!
Sri Lanka new sig/date (04.02.2015) 500-rupee note (B126b) confirmed
20 01, 2016 10:42 Category: South Asia
B126b: Like B126a, but new date (2015-02-04) and new signature. Prefix T/116.
Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk (Nogowczyk
Sri Lanka new sig/date (04.02.2015) 100-rupee note (B125b) confirmed
20 01, 2016 10:36 Category: South Asia
B125b: Like B125a, but new date (2015-02-04) and new signature. Prefix U/316.
Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk (Nogowczyk
Uganda new date (1997) 1,000-shilling note (B140c1) confirmed
17 01, 2016 10:14 Category: Africa
Like B140c, but new date (1997). Prefix HL.
Courtesy of Rex Hilligan.
Bangladesh new date (2015) 50-taka note (B351e) confirmed
16 01, 2016 10:19 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Bangladesh new date (2014) 500-taka note (B353d) confirmed
16 01, 2016 10:19 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B353d: Like B353c, but new date (2014).
Bangladesh new date (2015) 500-taka note (B353e) confirmed
16 01, 2016 10:06 Category: East and Southeast Asia
Argentina unveils designs of 200- and 500-peso notes to be issued mid-2016
15 01, 2016 17:37 Category: South America
According to a press release dated 15 January 2016, the Banco Central de la República Argentina intends to introduce a new family of notes, beginning with 200- and 500-peso notes in mid-2016, followed in 2017 by 20-, 50-, 100-, and 1,000-peso notes in 2017. All the denominations will feature Argentine wildlife, with a different native animal on front and the characteristic haibitat for the species on the back as follows, but to date, only the 200- and 500-peso note designs have been unveiled.
- 20 pesos: Guanaco, Patagonian steppe
- 50 pesos: Condor, Andean Region
- 100 pesos: Taruca, Northwest Region
- 200 pesos: Southern right whale, Argentine Sea, Antarctica and South Atlantic Islands
- 500 pesos: Jaguar, Northeast region
- 1,000 pesos: Rufous hornero (national bird), Central region
Courtesy of Cleo Phas and Alex Zlotin.
Belgian Congo chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
14 01, 2016 11:11 Category: The Banknote Book | Africa
The Belgian Congo chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 22-page catalog covers notes issued by the Etat Independant du Congo (Congo Free State) in 1896, the Banque du Congo Belge (Bank of the Belgian Congo) from 1914 to 1952, and the Banque Centrale du Congo Belge et du Ruanda-Urundi (Central Bank of Belgian Congo and Rwanda-Burundi) from 1952 to 1960. Published 15 January 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
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Ghana new date (01.07.2015) 20-cedi note (B148f) confirmed
14 01, 2016 11:09 Category: Africa
Like B148e, but new date (1st JULY 2015). Prefix WM.
Courtesy of Marco Fragel.
Uganda new date (2015) 1,000-shilling note (B154d) confirmed
13 01, 2016 11:13 Category: Africa
B154d: Like B154c, but new date (2015). Prefix BY.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Tanzania new sig/date (2015) 1,000-shilling note (B140b) confirmed
13 01, 2016 06:05 Category: Africa
Like B140a, but new signature 16, and new date in security thread with demetalized BOT 2015. Prefix DH. Intro: 2015.
Courtesy of Chris Hall.
South Africa new signature 200-rand note confirmed
12 01, 2016 19:39 Category: Africa
India new 500- and 1,000-rupee notes confirmed
12 01, 2016 19:32 Category: South Asia
According to a press release dated 22 September 2015, the Reserve Bank of India issued new 500- and 1,000-rupee notes like P106 and P107, respectively, but with novel "ascending size" serial numbers, "angular bleed lines" at the edges, and bigger identification marks. The RBI very recently introduced these denominations with novel numbering, but has now added "two more features to aid visually impaired in easy identification of banknotes part from securing them against counterfeiting."
Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim and Shibu Paul (Ebanknoteshop
Colombia new date (01.09.2013) 5,000-peso note confirmed
12 01, 2016 09:28 Category: South America
Like P452, but new date (1o DE SEPTEMBER DE 2013).
Courtesy of Mauricio Diaz-Chavarro.
Colombia new date (29.07.2014) 2,000-peso note confirmed
12 01, 2016 09:27 Category: South America
Like P457, but new date (29 DE JULIO DE 2014).
Courtesy of Mauricio Diaz-Chavarro.
Colombia new date (19.08.2015) 1,000-peso note confirmed
12 01, 2016 09:25 Category: South America
Like P456, but new date (19 DE AGOSTO DE 2015).
Courtesy of Mauricio Diaz-Chavarro.
Israel new 200-new shekel note (B445) confirmed
12 01, 2016 08:00 Category: Middle East
B445 (PNL): 200 new shekels (US$58)
Blue. Front: Menorah as registration device; open book in gold-to-green SPARK; fall leaves; Natan Alterman; microprinted poem “Eternal Meeting.” Back: Moonlit tree branches; menorah. Windowed color-changing security thread with demetalized 200 and portrait of Natan Alterman. Watermark: Natan Alterman and electrotype 200. Printer: Unknown. 150 x 71 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 15. Intro: 23.12.2015.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Georgia new 20-, 50-, and 100-lari notes (B256 - B258) to be issued in Feb. 2016
10 01, 2016 20:32 Category: Europe
According to a press release dated 3 November 2015, the National Bank of Georgia has unveiled designs of new 20-, 50-, and 100-lari banknotes to be introduced in February 2016. Designed by Bacha Malazonia, the notes have revised designs/colors/dimensions and security features enhanced with assistance from De La Rue (England), Giesecke & Devrient (Germany), and Oberthur Fiduciare (France), although the bank has not disclosed which firm actually printed the notes. The 5- and 10-lari notes will be upgraded “later.”
B256 (PNL): 20 lari (US$12)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; magenta-to-green SPARK ornament; publishing house; magazine Sakartvelos Moambe and newspaper Iveria; personal belongings, including lens, watch, pen, and inkpot; publisher Ilia Chavchavadze. Back: Panorama of old Tbilisi featuring the Narikala fortress; equestrian monument to King Vakhtang Gorgasali; map of Tbilisi in the 18th century (prepared by Vakhushti Batonishvili); coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with Ilia Chavchavadze, 20, phaeton (horse-drawn carriage), and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-gold windowed security thread with demetalized 20 ლარი. Watermark: Ilia Chavchavadze with electrotype 20 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 132 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.
B257 (PNL): 50 lari (US$30)
Green. Front: Denomination as registration device; green-to-gold SPARK ornament; cave monastery in Vardzia; King Tamar; XIII-century bas-relief from Pitareti Virgin Mari Monastery. Back: Astrological sign of Sagittarius from a Georgian miniature manuscript of the XII century; coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with King Tamar, 50, lari symbol, griffin, and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 50 ლარი. Watermark: King Tamar with electrotype 50 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 137 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.
B258 (PNL): 100 lari (US$59)
Violet. Front: Denomination as registration device; magenta-to-green SPARK ornament; poet Shota Rustaveli; VII-century bas-relief of biblical story “Daniel in the Den of Lions” from Martvili Cathedral of Assumption of the Virgin Mary; poem “The Knight in the Tiger Skin.” Back: Gas lamp post; the Zakaria Paliashvili Tbilisi State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet on Freedom Square in Tbilisi; coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with Shota Rustaveli, 100, lari symbol, flowers, and map of Georgia. Blue-to-red windowed security thread with demetalized 100 ლარი. Watermark: Shota Rustaveli with electrotype 100 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 142 x 70 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas, Albert Vokhmin, and Malkhaz Shvelidze.
Indonesia new date (2015) 20,000-rupiah note (B605e) confrimed
10 01, 2016 10:20 Category: East and Southeast Asia
B605e: Like B605d, but new date (2015).
Courtesy of Hans-Dieter Müller.
Trinidad and Tobago new 50-dollar note (B235) confirmed
08 01, 2016 12:55 Category: Caribbean
This note is like the preceding issue (B234), but without novel serial numbering or the commemorative text at upper center front, and with the addition of a circle of embossed dots at lower right front, and a red banner across the tail of the bird on front. Reports are that the bank intends to add embossed symbols to all the other denominations to assist the sight impaired. No word yet on when the new notes will be introduced, nor if they will be all new designs.
B235 (PNL): 50 dollars (US$7.85)
Gold, brown, purple, red, and green. Front: Coat of arms; red hibiscus flower; SPARK Orbital hibiscus; red-capped cardinal bird in flight. Back: Red-capped cardinal in flight; Eric Williams Financial Complex in Port of Spain; female masquerader in Carnival costume. No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: (TDLR). 152 x 70 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Sig. 9. Prefix CH. Intro: 30.11.2015.
B235 (PNL): 50 dollars (US$7.85)
Gold, brown, purple, red, and green. Front: Coat of arms; red hibiscus flower; SPARK Orbital hibiscus; red-capped cardinal bird in flight. Back: Red-capped cardinal in flight; Eric Williams Financial Complex in Port of Spain; female masquerader in Carnival costume. No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: (TDLR). 152 x 70 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Sig. 9. Prefix CH. Intro: 30.11.2015.
Ghana new date (02.07.1980) 5-cedi note (B120b2) confirmed
04 01, 2016 06:41 Category: Africa
Like B120b1, but new date (2nd July 1980). Prefix AP.
Courtesy of Rex Hilligan.
Ethiopia new date (2015) 5-birr note (B331e) confirmed
03 01, 2016 09:28 Category: Africa
B331e: Like B331d, but new date (2007/2015). Prefix CG.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Iraq new 50,000-dinar note (B357) confirmed
01 01, 2016 11:16 Category: Middle East
According to an Arabic press release dated 11 November 2015 (English translation here), the Central Bank of Iraq introduced the following 50,000-dinar note.
B356 (PNL): 50,000 dinars (US$42)
Brown, green, yellow, and blue. Front: Assyrian jar as blue-to-green SPARK patch; water wheel on the Euphrates river; palm trees; flying birds; Gali Ali Beg waterfall in Kurdistan; Assyrian palm tree as registration device. Back: Assyrian palm tree; fishermen poling canoes through marshes with flying ducks, water buffalos, reed house; outline map of Iraq showing Euphrates and Tigris rivers; palm trees. varifeye thread with spiral minaret, Malwiya Tower, at the Great Mosque of Samarra. 4-mm wide purple-to-green RollingStar Cube windowed security thread with demetalized Arabic text (The Central Bank of Iraq). Watermark: Horse head and electrotype 50000. Printer: (G&D). 156 x 65 mm.
a. ٢٠١٥ - ١٤٣٦ (2015/AH1436). Signature 18. Prefix ١/٨. Intro: 11.11.2015.
Courtesy of Musaab Ibrahim, John Raine, and Fikri Kawar (
).
B356 (PNL): 50,000 dinars (US$42)
Brown, green, yellow, and blue. Front: Assyrian jar as blue-to-green SPARK patch; water wheel on the Euphrates river; palm trees; flying birds; Gali Ali Beg waterfall in Kurdistan; Assyrian palm tree as registration device. Back: Assyrian palm tree; fishermen poling canoes through marshes with flying ducks, water buffalos, reed house; outline map of Iraq showing Euphrates and Tigris rivers; palm trees. varifeye thread with spiral minaret, Malwiya Tower, at the Great Mosque of Samarra. 4-mm wide purple-to-green RollingStar Cube windowed security thread with demetalized Arabic text (The Central Bank of Iraq). Watermark: Horse head and electrotype 50000. Printer: (G&D). 156 x 65 mm.
a. ٢٠١٥ - ١٤٣٦ (2015/AH1436). Signature 18. Prefix ١/٨. Intro: 11.11.2015.
Courtesy of Musaab Ibrahim, John Raine, and Fikri Kawar (
