Saudi Arabia new sig/date (2012) 100-riyal note (B134c) confirmed

Saudi_Arabia_SAMA_100_riyals_2012.00.00_B134c_P36_555_957682_fSaudi_Arabia_SAMA_100_riyals_2012.00.00_B134c_P36_555_957682_r
Like B134b, but new date (١٤٣٣/2012) and new signature.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Malawi new 500-kwacha note (B161a) confirmed

Malawi_RBM_500_kwacha_2014.01.01_B161a_PNL_AW_3553100_fMalawi_RBM_500_kwacha_2014.01.01_B161a_PNL_AW_3553100_r
B161a: Like B154a, but with blind recognition feature (rectangle) at lower left front. Prefix AW.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Malawi new 100-kwacha note (B159a) confirmed

Malawi_RBM_100_kwacha_2014.01.01_B160a_PNL_AR_8410700_fMalawi_RBM_100_kwacha_2014.01.01_B160a_PNL_AR_8410700_r
B160a: Like B152a, but with blind recognition feature (three dots) at lower left front. Prefix AR.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Malawi new date (01.01.2015) 50-kwacha note (B158b) confirmed

Malawi_RBM_50_kwacha_2015.01.01_B157b_PNL_AX_1947663_fMalawi_RBM_50_kwacha_2015.01.01_B157b_PNL_AX_1947663_r
Like B158a, but new date (1st JANUARY 2015). Prefix AX.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Russia new 100-ruble Crimea commemorative note (B832) confirmed

On 23 December 2015, the Bank of Russia began issuing 20 million 100-ruble notes commemorating the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014. The new notes feature symbols of the city of Sevastopol on front and Crimea on back.

Russia_CBR_100_rubles_2015.00.00_B832a_PNL_CK_2870560_fRussia_CBR_100_rubles_2015.00.00_B832a_PNL_CK_2870560_r
B832 (PNL): 100 рублей (rubles) (US$1.50)
Yellow, green, brown, and blue. Front (vertical): Painter Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky’s “The Russian Squadron on the Sebastopol Roads;” sculptor Amandus Adamson’s “Monument to the Scuttled Ships” in Sevastopol Bay; layout of Sevastopol city; architect I. Fialko and sculptor V. Yakovlev’s “Memorial to the Heroic Defense of Sevastopol in 1941-1942” on Nakhimov square; St. Vladimir’s Cathedral. Back (vertical): Grape vine; “Sail” cliff and Au-Dag mountain; Swallow’s Nest castle on Aurora Cliff overlooking Cape of Ai-Todor in Yalta, Crimea; Khan’s mosque in Khan’s Palace in Bakhchysarai; radio telescope RT-70 near the town of Yevpatoria; Quick Recognition Code. Holographic windowed security thread with demetalized 100 and microperf ruble symbol. Watermark: Catherine the Great and electrotype jewelry. Printer: (Goznak). 150 x 65 mm.
a. 2015. Prefix CK. Intro: 23.12.2015.
B832 is the second note in the world to incorporate a Quick Recognition Code into its design. When scanned with an Internet-enabled mobile device, the code goes to a web site which tells the historical background of the note.

Courtesy of Alexander Petrov, Albert Vokhmin, Ilkka Malmi, Anthony Rodov, and Alexandru Mocanu.

Madagascar new signature 5,000-ariary note (B328b) confirmed

Madagascar_BFM_5000_ariary_2015.00.00_B328b_P91b_D_7744546_D_fMadagascar_BFM_5000_ariary_2015.00.00_B328b_P91b_D_7744546_D_r
B328b: Like B328a, but new signature (Alain Hervé M. Rasolofondraibe). Prefix/suffix D/D. Intro: 2015.

Courtesy of Dominique Dannery.

Madagascar new signature 1,000-ariary note (B323c) confirmed

Madagascar_BFM_1000_ariary_2004.00.00_B323c_P89b_B_9339880_N_f
Madagascar_BFM_1000_ariary_2004.00.00_B323c_P89b_B_9339880_N_r
B323c: Like B323b, but new signature (Alain Hervé M. Rasolofondraibe). Prefix/suffix B/N. Intro: 2015.

Courtesy of Dominique Dannery.

Cambodia new date (2015) 2,000-rial note (B422b) reported

B422b: Like B422a, but បោះពុម្ពឆ្នាំ ២០១៥ (Printed 2015) at lower right on front. Watermark: Floral pattern.

Courtesy of Allan Lim.

Armenia new sig/date (2015) 1,000-dram note (B315b) confirmed

Armenia_CBA_1000_dram_2015.00.00_B315b_P55_ԱԲ_04269388_f
B315b: Like B315a, but new date (2015) and new signatures. Intro: 26.11.2015. Prefix ԱԲ.

Courtesy of Paul Soboleff (http://www.fox-notes.ru).

Libya new 5- and 10-dinar notes (B546 and B547) confirmed

According to a Libya Herald article dated 8 December 2015, on 13 December the Central Bank of Libya introduced the following new 5- and 10-dinar notes.

Libya_CBL_5_dinars_2015.12.12_B546a_PNL_1_10_3909807_f
Libya_CBL_5_dinars_2015.12.12_B546a_PNL_1_10_3909807_r

Libya_CBL_10_dinars_2015.12.12_B547a_PNL_1_7_0169607_f
Libya_CBL_10_dinars_2015.12.12_B547a_PNL_1_7_0169607_r

Curiously, these notes are different than those shown in the following photograph which appeared in photographs in various news sources in early 2013. All denominations except for the 5- and 10-dinar notes shown below were eventually issued that year. In October 2013, gunmen stole 55 million dinars worth of notes from a bank van. If the unissued notes were part of the loot, it's possible that the bank decided to change the designs to make the haul worthless.

Libya_new_notes_5_10

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Ahmed Elturki.

Pakistan new date (2015) 5,000-rupee note (B239h) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_5000_rupees_2015.00.00_B239h_P51_AA_8050714_fPakistan_SBP_5000_rupees_2015.00.00_B239h_P51_AA_8050714_r
Like B239g, but new date (2015). Prefix AA.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).


Zimbabwe makes Chinese yuan legal tender after China cancels debts

According to an article in The Guardian dated 21 December 2015, "Zimbabwe has announced that it will make the Chinese yuan legal tender after Beijing confirmed it would cancel $40m in debts." Zimbabwe stopped using its own dollar currency in 2009 after years of hyperinflation, and replaced it with the US dollar and South African rand.

Courtesy of Mark Irwin.

Romania new date (2015) 1-leu note (B278j) confirmed

Like B278i, but new date (20)15.

Courtesy of Alexandru Mocanu.

Bhutan new date (2015) 100-ngultrum note (B221c) confirmed

B221c: Like B221b, but new date (2015). Prefix N.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Mexico new sig/date (27.10.2014) 500-peso note confirmed

Mexico_BDM_500_pesos_2014.10.27_P126_AN_P1010995_fMexico_BDM_500_pesos_2014.10.27_P126_AN_P1010995_r
Like P126, but new signatures and new date (27 OCT. 2014). Series AN.

Courtesy of Alberto Rios.

Scotland's Bank of Scotland new 5-pound polymer commemorative note confirmed

Scotland_BOS_5_pounds_2015.07.17_BNL_PNL_PUDSEY_27_fScotland_BOS_5_pounds_2015.07.17_BNL_PNL_PUDSEY_27_r
According to a press release dated 8 October 2015, the Bank of Scotland has unveiled the limited edition commemorative 5-pound banknote to be auctioned in aid of BBC Children in Need in November. The notes feature a picture of the charity’s Pudsey bear in a design produced by 13-year old Kayla Robson who won the Bank of Scotland’s competition to design a banknote. Just 50 of these notes have been produced by De La Rue and the use of the Safeguard substrate has allowed novel use of secure windows in the image of the Bank’s headquarters The Mound in Edinburgh.

The serial numbers on the note will also be unique with the first 40 notes using the serial code PUDSEY01 – PUDSEY40. The remaining 10 banknotes will be available for personalized serial numbers such as initials and date of birth. After the one-off charity auction, most of the rest of the notes will be auctioned by Spinks auction house in December 2015.

Courtesy of Stane Straus, Aidan Work, and Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk).


Australia chapter of The Banknote Book is now complete


The Australia 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 the Commonwealth of Australia from 1913 to 1954 and the Reserve Bank of Australia from 1960 to present. Revised 18 December 2015.

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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Oman new 1-rial commemorative note (B236) confirmed

According to a press release dated 18 November 2015, on the occasion of the 45th National Day 2015, the Central Bank of Oman announced the introduction of a new commemorative 1-rial banknote.

There are unconfirmed reports that the bank immediately withdrew the note because of an error in the Hijri year on the front of the note below the signature. It should be ١٤٣٧ (1437) but appears as ١٤٢٧ (1427). The date is correct on the back as 1437 H / 2015 G.
Oman_CBO_1_rial_2015.00.00_B236a_PNL_11027539_date

Oman_CBO_1_rial_2015.00.00_B236a_PNL_1040651_fOman_CBO_1_rial_2015.00.00_B236a_PNL_1040651_r
B236 (PNL): 1 rial (US$2.60)
Purple. Front: Sultan Qaboos bin Said; coat of arms with crossed swords and khanjar (dagger); Al Alam Palace in Muscat, khanjar as registration device. Back: Flowers; khanjar; Desert white butterflies (Pontia glauconome); 45th National Day logo; Sultan Qaboos University in Al Khoudh in the Muscat Governorate. Two-tone windowed security thread. Watermark: Sultan. Printer: Unknown. 140 x 71 mm.
a. 1437 H / 2015 G. Signature 2. Intro: 18.11.2015.

Peru currency changes name from "nuevo sol" to "sol" on 15.12.2015

According to an article on Gestión dated 14 December 2015, the Peruvian congress has passed a law changing the name of the country's currency from nuevo sol (new sun) to sol (sun, symbol S/). On 1 July 1991, the nuevo sol replaced the inti at a rate of 1:1,000,000, effectively making the new sol worth 1 trillion “old” soles.

This latest renaming was done to streamline economic transactions and adapt to economic reality.

No word yet on when the the Banco Central de Reserva del Perú intends to issue new notes denominated in sols.

Courtesy of Juan Carlos.

Madagascar modified note family reported

According to a newspaper announcement dated 15 October 2015, Banky Foiben'i Madagasikara will issue notes without references to the Malagasy franc, and with a new signature.

New Banknotes Madagascar-1

Courtesy of Albert Janssen.



Venezuela new sig/date (23.06.2015) 50-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_50_bolívares_2015.06.23_P92_AA_74686901_fVenezuela_BCV_50_bolívares_2015.06.23_P92_AA_74686901_r
Like P92, but new signatures, new date (23 DE JUNIO DE 2015), and two-letter prefix AA.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Hungary new 20,000-forint note (B592) confirmed introduced 14.12.2015

According to a press release dated 25 September 2015, on 14 December 2015 the Magyar Nemzeti Bank will introduce a new 20,000-forint note like the existing issues (B586), which will circulate in parallel through 2016, then be withdrawn at an undisclosed date. The new notes feature a revised color scheme and design on front, and additional security features, including OVI ornament, electrotype watermark, and UV printing of a man and woman with parasol.

Hungary_MNB_20000_forint_2015.00.00_PNL_GA_9838560_fHungary_MNB_20000_forint_2015.00.00_PNL_GA_9838560_r
20,000 forint (US$107)
Green, orange, blue, and yellow. Front: Coat of arms; gold-to-green OVI ornament; Deák Ferenc (Minister of Justice Ferenc Deák de Kehida). Back: Az Ideiglenes Magyar Képviselóház Pesten (The Provisional Assembly of Hungary in Budapest) building with flag, trees, strolling couples, and statue of bust. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized MNB 20000. Watermark: Deák Ferenc and electrotype 20000. Printer: (Pénzjegynyomda Rt.). 154 x 70 mm.
a. 2015. Intro: 14.12.2015.

Courtesy of Johnny Mollindo, Cleo Phas, and on eBay.

Mexico new sig/date (04.04.2014) 100-peso note confirmed

Mexico_BDM_100_pesos_2014.04.04_P124_AP_T0351784_f
Mexico_BDM_100_pesos_2014.04.04_P124_AP_T0351784_r
Like P124, but new date (4 ABR. 2014), new signatures, and series AP.

Courtesy of Alberto Rios.

Mexico new sig/date (04.04.2014) 200-peso note confirmed

Mexico_BDM_200_pesos_2014.04.04_P125_AV_Z5497333_fMexico_BDM_200_pesos_2014.04.04_P125_AV_Z5497333_r
Like P125, but new date (4 ABR. 2014), new signatures, and series AV.

Courtesy of Alberto Rios.

Iceland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Iceland 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 Landsbanki Islands from 1929 to 1958, Landsbanki Íslands-Sedlabankinn from 1960 to 1963, and Sedlabanki Islands (Central Bank of Iceland) from 1963 to present. Revised 9 December 2015.

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.

Subscribe
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.

Sign up

Switzerland new 50-franc note to be introduced 12.04.2016

According to a press release dated 10 December 2015, on 12 April 2016 the Swiss National Bank plans to introduce its new 50-franc note, the first denomination issued in a planned new series of notes. "The remaining banknotes in the series will be issued subsequently at half-yearly or yearly intervals. The SNB will announce each new issue date well in advance. The current eighth banknote series will continue to be legal tender until further notice. The date on which the current series is to be withdrawn from circulation will also be announced well in advance."

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Mauritania new sig/date (28.11.2015) 100-ouguiya note (B121b) confirmed

Mauritania_BCM_100_ouguiya_2015.11.28_B121b_P16_AC_0876780_A_fMauritania_BCM_100_ouguiya_2015.11.28_B121b_P16_AC_0876780_A_r
Like B121a, but new signatures and new date (28.11.2015). Prefix AC.

Courtesy of Fernando Iglesias.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new sig/date (11.07.2015) 20-pound note confirmed

According to an article in The Telegraph dated 29 November 2015, Clydesdale Bank introduced its 20-pound note (P229K) with the signature of Debbie Crosbie, the bank's chief operating officer. This is the first time ever that a Scottish note is signed by a woman. The note is dated 11th July 2015 and was issued 26.11.2015.

Debbie_Crosbie_wit_3513155b

Scotland_CB_20_pounds_2015.07.11_P229K_W-ML_042066_f
Scotland_CB_20_pounds_2015.07.11_P229K_W-ML_042066_r

Courtesy of Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk) and Derek Walker.

Hong Kong HSBC new date (01.01.2014) 20-dollar note confirmed

Hong_Kong_HSBC_20_dollars_2014.01.01_P212_ND_221436_f
Hong_Kong_HSBC_20_dollars_2014.01.01_P212_ND_221436_r
Like P212, but new date (1 January 2014) and new signature. Prefix ND.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.


Hong Kong HSBC new date (01.01.2014) 100-dollar note confirmed

Hong_Kong_HSBC_100_dollars_2014.01.01_P214_JD_607233_f
Hong_Kong_HSBC_100_dollars_2014.01.01_P214_JD_607233_r
Like P214, but new date (1 January 2014) and new signature. Prefix JD.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.


Colombia new sig/date (07.09.2013) 50,000-peso note confirmed

Colombia_BDR_50000_pesos_2013.09.07_P455_25385338_f
Colombia_BDR_50000_pesos_2013.09.07_P455_25385338_r
Like P455, but new date (7 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2013) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.


Myanmar new 10,000-kyat note (B118) confirmed

According to an article on ZeeNews.com dated 1 July 2015, the Central Bank of Myanmar has introduced a new type of 10,000-kyat note with upgraded security features "to further enhance the note quality and prevent forgery." This note is like the preceding issues (B116), but with the denomination at lower right front expressed in Burmese numerals printed with SPARK, a new watermark, and a protective layer of vanish on both sides to extend the circulation life of the note.

Myanmar_CBM_10000_kyats_2015.07.01_B118a_PNL_BO_8277796_f
Myanmar_CBM_10000_kyats_2015.07.01_B118a_PNL_BO_8277796_r
B118 (PNL): 10,000 kyats
Blue, red, purple, green, brown, and yellow. Front: Guilloche patterns; two elephants flanking laurel wreath with outline map of Myanmar. Back: Royal Palace of Mandalay with reflection on water. Magenta-to-gold windowed security thread with demetalized MYANMAR SPW. Watermark: Lotus blossom and electrotype 10000. Printer: SECURITY PRINTING WORKS (in microprint). 150 x 70 mm.
a. No date. Intro: 01.07.2015.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Venezuela new sig/date (23.06.2015) 100-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_100_bolívares_2015.07.23_P93_AJ_88939005_f
Venezuela_BCV_100_bolívares_2015.07.23_P93_AJ_88939005_r
Like P93, but new date (23 DE JUNIO DE 2015) and new signatures. Prefix AH - AK.

Courtesy of Dario Silva, Claudio Marana, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Kazakhstan new 20,000-tenge note (B144a) confirmed

According to a press release dated 30 November 2015, the National Bank of Kazakhstan introduced a new 20,000-tenge note (B144) on 1 December 2015.

Kazakhstan_NBK_20000_tenge_2015.00.00_B144a_PNL_AA_5896555_f
Kazakhstan_NBK_20000_tenge_2015.00.00_B144a_PNL_AA_5896555_r
B144 (PNL): 20,000 tenge (US$65)
Blue-gray and violet. Front (vertical): National emblem; SPARK pegasus patch; monumental arch; flying doves and Kazakh Eli monument in Astana; flag. Back: Outline of Kazakhstan; Akorda Palace (the presidential residence in Astana); doves; outline of Kazakhstan. Windowed and solid security threads. Watermark: Mythic Samruk bird with electrotype 20000. Printer: (BFoNBK). 155 x 79 mm.
a. 2013. Sig. 5. Prefix АА, AБ. Intro: 01.12.2015.
This note was printed in 2013 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the tenge, but was not introduced until 2015.
Replacement notes: Prefix ЛЛ.

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin, Ömer Yalçinkaya (eBay store), and Arsentiy Khonin.


Brazil new signature 100-real note (B879c) confirmed

Brazil_BCB_100_reais_2010.00.00_B879c_P257_FG_013325503_f
Brazil_BCB_100_reais_2010.00.00_B879c_P257_FG_013325503_r
B879c: Like B879b, but new signatures (Joaquim Levy and Alexandre Antonio Tombini). Prefix FG.

Courtesy of Felipe Augusto.

Mexico new sig/date (27.10.2014) 50-peso note confirmed

Mexico_BDM_50_pesos_2014.10.27_PNL_M_V6642181_f
Mexico_BDM_50_pesos_2014.10.27_PNL_M_V6642181_r
Like previous unlisted 50-peso note, but new signatures and new date (27 OCT. 2014). Series M.

Courtesy of Alberto Rios.

Trinidad & Tobago new 50-dollar note reported

Trinidad_Tobago_CBTT_50_dollars_2015.00.00_B235a_PNL_CH_185442_f
According to an article in the Daily Express dated 29 November 2015, the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago introduced a redesigned 50-dollar note similar to B234 which was introduced in December 2014 and subsequently was honored as the IBNS Bank Note of the Year. The redesigned note was introduced in early November 2015 and incorporates an embossed tactile feature for the visually-impaired, and no longer features novel serial numbers.

World Paper Money author Albert Pick passed away 21.11.2015

I am saddened to report the death of Albert Pick, 93, on 21 November 2015 in a nursing home in Germany. Mr. Pick was the author of the original Standard Catalog of World Paper Money (SCWPM) in 1975, and is responsible for creating the eponymous numbering system still in use today. Banknote collectors to world over owe Mr. Pick an enornmous debt of gratitude for his seminal work in creating the first general issues catalog, an impressive feat made all the more remarkable when you consider he did so without the help of desktop publishing, email, and the Internet. Rest in peace.

Swaziland new sig/date (07.01.2014) 10-lilangeni note (B231b) confirmed

Swaziland_CBS_10_emalangeni_2014.01.07_B231b_P36_f
Like B231a, but new date (7.1.2014) and new signatures. Actually the signatories are the same (Martin G. Dlamini and Majozi Vincent Sithole), but they've switched offices, and hence positions and titles on the note. Prefix AA.

Courtesy of Hermannn Huber.

Swaziland new sig/date (07.01.2014) 20-lilangeni note (B232b) confirmed

Swaziland_CBS_20_emalangeni_2014.01.07_B232b_P37_AA_7114679_f
Swaziland_CBS_20_emalangeni_2014.01.07_B232b_P37_AZ_0721476_r
Like B232a, but new date (7.1.2014) and new signatures. Actually the signatories are the same (Martin G. Dlamini and Majozi Vincent Sithole), but they've switched offices, and hence positions and titles on the note. Prefix AA and AZ (replacement).

Courtesy of Hermannn Huber.

Swaziland new sig/date (07.01.2014) 200-lilangeni note (B235b) confirmed

Swaziland_CBS_200_emalangeni_2014.01.07_B235b_P40_AA_2769504_f
Swaziland_CBS_200_emalangeni_2014.01.07_B235b_P40_AA_2769504_r
Like B235a, but new date (7.1.2014) and new signatures. Actually the signatories are the same (Martin G. Dlamini and Majozi Vincent Sithole), but they've switched offices, and hence positions and titles on the note. Prefix AA.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

European Monetary Union 20-euro note (B110) confirmed

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_20_euros_2015.00.00_B110x3_PNL_XA_3994337997_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_20_euros_2015.00.00_B110x3_PNL_XA_3994337997_r
B110 (PNL): 20 euro (US$22)
Blue. Front: Flag; Gothic architecture. Back: Bridge; map. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized 20 EURO. Watermark: Head of Europa and electrotype 20. Printer: Various (see code chart). 133 x 72 mm.
Signature 3. Prefix E, M, N, R, S, U, W, X confirmed. Intro: 25.11.2015.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Brunei new date (2013) 1-dollar note (B301b) confirmed

Brunei_AMBD_1_dollar_2013.00.00_B301b_P35_D-24_607451_f
Brunei_AMBD_1_dollar_2013.00.00_B301b_P35_D-24_607451_r
B301b: Like B301a, but new date (2013). Prefix D-24.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Western Samoa chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Western Samoa chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 13-page catalog covers notes notes issued by the Government of Samoa from 1915-1920, Territory of Western Samoa from 1922-1959, Bank of Western Samoa from 1960-1967, and Monetary Board of Western Samoa from 1980-1984. Published 27 November 2015.

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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Tanzania new signature 2,000-shilling note (B141b) confirmed

Tanzania_BOT_2000_shillings_2015.09.00_B141b_P42_EU_2061602_f
Tanzania_BOT_2000_shillings_2015.09.00_B141b_P42_EU_2061602_r
Like B141a, but new signatures. Prefix EQ - EX.

Courtesy of Chris Hall.

Guinea new 1,000-franc note (B340) confirmed

Guinea_BCRG_1000_francs_2015.00.00_B340a_PNL_AF_284501_f
Guinea_BCRG_1000_francs_2015.00.00_B340a_PNL_AF_284501_r
B340 (PNL): 1,000 francs (US$0.15)
Tan. Front: Woman with plaits; two pigeons taking flight; coat of arms; bank logo as registration device. Back: Map of Guinea; two dump trucks and steam shovel at open pit bauxite mine; stalk of bananas. Windowed security thread with demetalized GNF 1000. Watermark: Woman with plaits and electrotype RG 1000. Printer: Unknown. 139 x 68 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 5. Prefix AF.

Courtesy of Hamid Kazemi (banknoteswholesale).

Brazil new signature 5-real note (B875b) confirmed

Brazil_BCB_5_reais_2010.00.00_B875b_P253_CD_050129664_f
Brazil_BCB_5_reais_2010.00.00_B875b_P253_CD_050129664_r
B875b: Like B875a, but new signature. Prefix CD.

Courtesy of Richard Miranda.

China new 100-yuan aerospace commemorative note confirmed

According to a Chinese-language press release dated 6 November 2015, this note commemorates Aerospace Science and Technology. It was issued 26 November 2015.

China_PBC_100_yuan_2015.00.00_PNL_J_6101949688_fChina_PBC_100_yuan_2015.00.00_PNL_J_6101949688_r
Blue, purple, and green. Front: Coat of arms; Dongfanghong I satellite; Shenzhou 9 manned spacecraft rendezvous and docking with Tiangong-1 space station; Chang’e 1 lunar-orbiting spacecraft; denomination as registration device. Back (vertical): Advancement of flight (bird, Fung Joe Guey biplane, jumbo jet, Shenzhou 9 and Tiangong-1, Chang’e 1). Windowed security thread with printed * 100 *. Watermark: Dongfanghong I satellite and electrotype 100. Printer: (China Banknote Printing and Minting). 155 x 77 mm.

Courtesy of 嘉瑞(Nick Chiu) and Teng Zhiming (Tzm-Collections).


Guyana new 50-dollar commemorative note reported for early 2016 introduction

According to a Caribnewsdesk article dated 23 November 2015, the Bank of Guyana intends to introduce a new 50-dollar note in April or May of 2016 to commemorate the nation's 50th independence anniversary on 26 May 2016.

European Monetary Union new 20-euro note (B110) reportedly introduced 25.11.2015

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_20_euros_2015.00.00_B110s_PNLs_UE_904093316_fEuropean_Monetary_Union_ECB_20_euros_2015.00.00_B110s_PNLs_UE_904093316_r
According to a press release, the new 20-euro note was introduced on 25 November 2015. "The new €20, the third in the Europa series, enters into circulation today. It has a refreshed look and more vibrant colours, and includes a new kind of security feature: a “portrait window” near the top of the hologram stripe which becomes transparent when seen against the light. The window reveals a portrait of Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, which is visible on both sides of the note. The same portrait is also visible in the watermark, alongside an emerald number which displays an effect of the light moving up and down when the note is tilted – exactly like in the €5 and €10 of the Europa series."

Mexico new sig/date (17.10.2013) 200-peso note confirmed

Mexico_BDM_200_pesos_2013.10.17_P125_AS_M7195457_fMexico_BDM_200_pesos_2013.10.17_P125_AS_M7195457_r
Like P125, but new date (17 OCT. 2013) and new signatures. Series AS.

Courtesy of Alberto Rios.

Russia new 100-ruble Crimea commemorative note reported for December 2015 introduction

According to an article in The Moscow Times dated 12 November 2015, in December the Central Bank of the Russian Federation will issue 20 million 100-ruble notes commemorating the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014. The new notes feature symbols of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol.


Hong Kong Standard Chartered Bank new date (01.01.2014) 20-, 50-, and 100-dollar notes (B418d, B419d, B420d) confirmed

Hong_Kong_SCB_20_dollars_2014.01.01_B418d_P297_DB_510786_fHong_Kong_SCB_20_dollars_2014.01.01_B418d_P297_DB_510786_r
B418d: Like B418c, but new date (1 JANUARY 2014). Prefix DB.

Hong_Kong_SCB_50_dollars_2014.01.01_B419d_P298_BC_714249_fHong_Kong_SCB_50_dollars_2014.01.01_B419d_P298_BC_714249_r
B419d: Like B419c, but new date (1 JANUARY 2014). Prefix BC.

Hong_Kong_SCB_100_dollars_2014.01.01_B420d_P299_BG_514502_fHong_Kong_SCB_100_dollars_2014.01.01_B420d_P299_BG_514502_r
B420d: Like B420c, but new date (1 JANUARY 2014). Prefix BG.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Zambia new 5-kwacha note (B160) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_5_kwacha_2015.00.00_B160a_PNL_BH-12_3191865_f
Zambia_BOZ_5_kwacha_2015.00.00_B160a_PNL_BH-12_3191865_r
Like B153, 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 (Royal Joh. Enschede). Prefix BH-12.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Zambia new 2-kwacha note (B159) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_2_kwacha_2015.00.00_B159a_PNL_AL-12_1497017_f
Zambia_BOZ_2_kwacha_2015.00.00_B159a_PNL_AL-12_1497017_r
Like B152, 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 (OBERTHUR fiduciaire). Prefix AL-12.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Rwanda new 1,000-franc note (B140) confirmed

According to the Official Gazette n° Special of 16/10/2015, the National Bank of Rwanda was authorized to issue a new 1,000-franc note (B140) on 15 October 2015. It's like the preceding issues, but the security features have been strengthened and French has been removed from these notes. Now all text is in Kinyarwanda on the front, and English on the back.

Rwanda_BNR_1000_francs_2015.05.01_B140a_P39_BV_0948008_f
Rwanda_BNR_1000_francs_2015.05.01_B140a_P39_BV_0948008_r
B140 (PNL): 1,000 francs (US$1.40)
Blue, green, and orange. Front: Green-to-blue flying dove SPARK Orbital patch; National Museum of Rwanda buildings in Butare. Back: Golden monkey in Volcanoes National Park. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BNR1000. Watermark: Coat of arms and electrotype BNR. Printer: Unknown. 140 x 72 mm.
a. 01.05.2015. Signature 24. Prefix AA - BV. Intro: 15.10.2015.

Courtesy of Murtaza Karimjee (www.africanbanknotes.blogspot.com).


Canada new signature 10-dollar note (B372c) confirmed

Canada_BOC_10_dollars_2013.00.00_B372c_P107_FTT_1647100_f
Canada_BOC_10_dollars_2013.00.00_B372c_P107_FTT_1647100_r
B372c: Like B372b, but new signature 17 (Wilkins/Poloz). Prefix FTT.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

China new 100-yuan note confirmed issued 12.11.2015

China_PBC_100_yuan_2015.00.00_PNL_ZF09_806677_f
China_PBC_100_yuan_2015.00.00_PNL_ZF09_806677_r
On 12 November 2015, the People’s Bank of China introduced a new 100-yuan note which is like P907, but new date, and enhanced anti-counterfeiting features, including purple-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 100, denomination as registration device, denomination as SPARK, additional Omron rings, and vertical serial number in blue at right front.

Courtesy of Teng Zhiming (Tzm-Collections).


Macedonia new sig/date (00.12.2014) 500-denar note (B213c) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_500_denari_2014.12.00_B213c_P21a_EИ_3936543_f
Macedonia_NBRM_500_denari_2014.12.00_B213c_P21a_EИ_3936543_r
Like B213b, but new date (Декември 2014) and new signature. Prefix EИ.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Press release: United States Paper Money Errors

PaperMoneyErrors_Cover
United States Paper Money Errors
Frederick J. Bart, 296 pages, soft cover, 146 x 228 mm, color illustrations, English, ISBN 978-0-87184-250-3, $27.95 (plus $5.75 shipping), Coin & Currency Institute, P.O. Box 399, Williston, Vermont 05495, http:www.coin-currency.com

New edition of comprehensive catalog and price guide makes first appearance since 2008

After a lapse of seven years, a new, fourth edition of United States Paper Money Errors, Fred Bart's ground-breaking book is now available. The 4th edition is more than just an update to the third recent – Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) errors have been added, nearly all the illustrations have been changed, there is a rarity guide for each note, which additionally are now priced in four grades (EF, AU, Choice CU and Gem CU), and for the first time, there is a section showing some notes in color.

This has always been an enormously popular book, not only among established collectors, but also with newcomers seeking to learn more about their "find." There is no other book like it on the market. More than a price guide, its 296 5.75 x 9 inch pages contain a wealth of information on what to look for, as well as the mistakes to avoid. It is a necessity for all dealers, collectors, and anyone who comes into regular contact with paper money.

Error notes continue to carve an ever larger niche in paper money collecting. This edition of the definitive reference allows advanced collectors to recognize the value in their holdings and still permits members of the general public to identify potentially profitable notes encountered in circulation. The book offers more than 550 photos, making identification easy. Chapters are arranged according to the actual production sequence within the BEP providing a logical flow to the arrangement. The book begins with an overview of paper money production and a discussion of error collecting. The next section deals with first and second printing errors such as board breaks, double denominations, inverted backs, and missing and offset printings. The next section details the types of overprint errors including misaligned and missing overprints, mismatched serial numbers, and stuck digits. The last section is devoted to folds and other errors. In addition, historic photographs from the BEP offer a fascinating glimpse into currency production during a bygone era, contrasting sharply with the advanced technology in use today.

The print version of the book, ISBN 978-0-87184-250-3, has a list price of $27.95 and is available from dealers and wherever numismatic books are sold. It may also be ordered direct from the publisher, Coin & Currency Institute, P.O. Box 399, Williston, Vermont 05495 or online at www.coin-currency.com. $5.75 should be added to each order for shipping and handling. Major credit cards are accepted. Call toll-free 1-800-421-1866. Fax (802) 536-4787. E-mail: mail@coin-currency.com.

An E-book edition, ISBN 978-0-87184-005-9, is available for digital download or on USB stick at www.coin-currency.com, or for viewing on tablet-like devices, from the Amazon Kindle store. List price is $17.50

Preview pages are available for viewing at www.coin-currency.com.

COIN & CURRENCY INSTITUTE
P.O. Box 399, Williston, Vermont 05495
Tel. (802) 878-0822 • Fax (802) 536-4787
E-mail: mail@coin-currency.com
Contact: A.L. Friedberg

Mexico new sig/date (04.04.2014) 500-peso note confirmed

Mexico_BDM_500_pesos_2014.04.04_P126_AK_B9242085_fMexico_BDM_500_pesos_2014.04.04_P126_AK_B9242085_r
Like P126, but new date (4 ABR. 2014) and new signatures. Series AK.

Courtesy of Alberto Rios.

Suriname new sig/date (01.04.2012) 50-dollar note (B548b) confirmed

Suriname_CBVS_50_dollars_2012.04.01_B548b_P165_GQ_9135545_fSuriname_CBVS_50_dollars_2012.04.01_B548b_P165_GQ_9135545_r
B548b: Like B548a, but new date (1 APRIL 2012) and new signature. Prefix GQ.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).


Uganda new date (2014) 1,000-shilling note (B154c) confirmed

Uganda_BOU_1000_shillings_2014.00.00_B154c_P49_BT_7613162_fUganda_BOU_1000_shillings_2014.00.00_B154c_P49_BT_7613162_r
B154c: Like B154b, but new date (2014). Prefix BT.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk (Nogowczyk).

Uganda new date (2015) 2,000-shilling note (B155c) confirmed

Uganda_BOU_2000_shillings_2015.00.00_B155c_P50_BG_9414052_f
Uganda_BOU_2000_shillings_2015.00.00_B155c_P50_BG_9414052_r
Like B155b, but new date (2015). Prefix BG.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk (Nogowczyk).

Uganda new date (2015) 5,000-shilling note (B156d) confirmed

Uganda_BOU_5000_shillings_2015.00.00_B156d_P51_AW_3106461_f
Uganda_BOU_5000_shillings_2015.00.00_B156d_P51_AW_3106461_r
Like B156c, but new date (2015). Prefix AW.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk (Nogowczyk).

Ghana new date (01.07.2015) 5-cedi note (B146f) confirmed

Ghana_BOG_5_cedis_2015.07.01_B146f_P38_QR_1229023_fGhana_BOG_5_cedis_2015.07.01_B146f_P38_QR_1229023_r
Like B146e, but new date (1st JULY 2015). Prefix QR.

Courtesy of Merjim Groen.

Nigeria new sig/date (2015) 200-naira note (B227u) confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_200_naira_2015.00.00_B227u_P29_A-38_207683_f
Nigeria_CBN_200_naira_2015.00.00_B227u_P29_A-38_207683_r
Like B227t2, but new date (2015) and new signatures. Prefix A/38.

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

Philippines new date (2014A) 100-peso note confirmed

Philippines_BSP_100_pesos_2014A.00.00_P208_ZZ_777777_fPhilippines_BSP_100_pesos_2014A.00.00_P208_ZZ_777777_r
Like P208, but new date (2014A). Prefix ZZ.

Courtesy of Sing Chia Tan (http://stores.ebay.com/goodluck4u888).

Philippines new date (2014C) 20-peso note confirmed

Philippines_BSP_20_pesos_2014C.00.00_P206_CG_222222_f
Philippines_BSP_20_pesos_2014C.00.00_P206_CG_222222_r
Like P206, but new date (2014C). Prefix CG.

Courtesy of Sing Chia Tan (http://stores.ebay.com/goodluck4u888).

Bahamas new 1-dollar note (B344) confirmed

Bahamas_CBB_1_dollar_2015.00.00_B347a_PNL_AN_000785_f
Bahamas_CBB_1_dollar_2015.00.00_B347a_PNL_AN_000785_r
Like B337, but the map of the islands at center front has been altered, new date (2015), and new printer imprint (DE LA RUE). Prefix AN.

Courtesy of Janus Juraschek.

Suriname new 50-dollar numismatic product (BNP501) confirmed

These legal tender notes commemorate the 55th anniversary of the Central Bank van Suriname. 50,000 pieces were packaged in a folder and originally sold at a premium of five times face value.

Suriname_CBVS_50_dollars_2012.04.01_BNP501a_PNL_folder_1
Suriname_CBVS_50_dollars_2012.04.01_BNP501a_PNL_CB_5525811_f
Suriname_CBVS_50_dollars_2012.04.01_BNP501a_PNL_CB_5525811_r
BNP501 (PNL): 50 dollar (US$15)
Brown and green. Front: Coat of arms; LOOK serial number; Central Bank van Suriname headquarters building at the Waterkant in Paramaribo; bougainvillea flower; bank logo SPOT patch. Back: Names and terms of service of bank’s presidents; man at lecturn addressing seated crowd of men in business suits; bank’s mission statement. LEAD holographic stripe with bougainvillea flower, bank logo, and 50. RollingStar magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized SRD. Watermark: Bank headquarters and electrotype CBvS. Printer: Giesecke & Devrient. 140 x 70 mm.
a. 1 APRIL 2012. Signature 8. Prefix CB.

Courtesy of Oleg Banachek (Crown Currency).

Belarus new redenominated notes (B137 - B143) reported for 01.07.2016 introduction

According to a press release dated 5 November 2015, the Belarusian ruble will be redenominated per an Edict of the President of the Republic of Belarus No.450 dated 4 November 2015. Existing notes (called the 2000 series) will be 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–will be be 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 will be in parallel circulation and 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 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.

Belarus_NBRB_5_rubles_2009.00.00_B137as_PNL_AB_0123456_f
Belarus_NBRB_5_rubles_2009.00.00_B137as_PNL_AB_0123456_r

Belarus_NBRB_10_rubles_2009.00.00_B138as_PNL_AB_0123456_f
Belarus_NBRB_10_rubles_2009.00.00_B138as_PNL_AB_0123456_r

Belarus_NBRB_20_rubles_2009.00.00_B139as_PNL_AB_0123456_f
Belarus_NBRB_20_rubles_2009.00.00_B139as_PNL_AB_0123456_r

Belarus_NBRB_50_rubles_2009.00.00_B140as_PNL_AB_0123456_f
Belarus_NBRB_50_rubles_2009.00.00_B140as_PNL_AB_0123456_r

Belarus_NBRB_100_rubles_2009.00.00_B141as_PNL_AB_0123456_f
Belarus_NBRB_100_rubles_2009.00.00_B141as_PNL_AB_0123456_r

Belarus_NBRB_200_rubles_2009.00.00_B142as_PNL_AB_0123456_f
Belarus_NBRB_200_rubles_2009.00.00_B142as_PNL_AB_0123456_r

Belarus_NBRB_500_rubles_2009.00.00_B143as_PNL_AB_0123456_f
Belarus_NBRB_500_rubles_2009.00.00_B143as_PNL_AB_0123456_r


Ukraine new sig/date (2015) 500-hryvnia note (B853d) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_500_hryven_2015.00.00_B853d_P124_YГ_1131839_f
Ukraine_NBU_500_hryven_2015.00.00_B853d_P124_YГ_1131839_r
B853d: Like B853c, but new signature and new date.

Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov (http://www.worldbanknotes.t15.org).



Eritrea new currency reported


According to Legal Notice No. 124/2015 dated 4 November 2015, the Bank of Eritrea plans to replace its currently circulating banknotes at par for a new series of notes. Although it has not yet announced when the change will take place, the currency redemption process will last six weeks. During the first two weeks, individuals and entities may deposit any amount of money in their accounts, but during the last four weeks, deposits and exchanges will be limited to 20,000 nakfa. After six weeks, the old nakfa notes will be demonetized.

Courtesy of Simon G. Tewolde.

Brazil new signature 2-real note (B874b) confirmed

Brazil_BCB_2_reais_2010.00.00_B874b_P252_CE_047434128_fBrazil_BCB_2_reais_2010.00.00_B874b_P252_CE_047434128_r
B874b: Like B874a, but new signatures.

Courtesy of Felipe Augusto.

Sweden new 1,000-krona note confirmed

Sweden_SR_1000_kronor_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_B_300178214_fSweden_SR_1000_kronor_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_B_300178214_r
1,000 kronor (US$157)
Gray-brown. Front: Denomination as registration device; UN Secretary-General and Member of the Swedish Academy Dag Hammarskjöld; three crowns; United Nations seal; olive branch and leaf gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Mountains in Lappland, an area of natural beauty of great interest to Dag Hammarskjöld; flowers; map of Sweden. Motion windowed security thread with crown and KR. Solid security thread. Watermark: Dag Hammarskjöld and electrotype 1000. Printer: (Tumba Bruk). 154 x 66 mm.a. (2014). Signature Johan Gernandt/Stefan Ingves. Intro: 01.10.2015.

Courtesy of Zeeshan Ali.

Switzerland new sig/date (2013) 200-franc notes confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_200_francs_2013.00.00_P73_13_A_1406700_sigSwitzerland_SNB_200_francs_2013.00.00_P73_13_N_6567606_sig
Like P73, but new date (20)13 and new signatures (Jean Studer and Jean-Pierre Danthine; Jean Studer and Thomas Jordan).

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Maldives new note family unveiled

This new family of banknotes is printed on DLR’s Safeguard polymer substrate. The first denomination—a commemorative 5,000-rufiyaa note (BNP201)—was introduced on 26 July 2015. The other circulating denominations—10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 rufiyaa—were unveiled 1 November 2015 and are expected to be introduced into circulation from December 2015 onwards (the existing 5-rufiyaa note will be replaced by a coin). The Maldives Monetary Authority held a design competition and selected local artist Abdullah Nashaath to ensure that the new family, called Randhihafaheh, has an authentically Maldivian look.

Maldives_MMA_10_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B216as_PNLs_A_000000_fMaldives_MMA_10_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B216as_PNLs_A_000000_r
B216 (PNL): 10 rufiyaa (US$0.65)
Golden yellow. Front: Underprint of traditional drum (boduberu) designs; denomination as registration device; seated men and women playing traditional drums; toddy tapper (ruh’ erun) climbing coconut palm tree (dhondhamburu ruku ihaleh). Back (vertical): Oldest drum displayed in the national museum. No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): Unknown. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 5 OCTOBER 2015. Sig. 5. Intro: December 2015.
The theme of this note is “our culture.”

Maldives_MMA_20_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B217as_PNLs_A_000000_fMaldives_MMA_20_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B217as_PNLs_A_000000_r
B217 (PNL): 20 rufiyaa (US$1.30)
Purple. Front: Underprint of aerial view of islands and reefs in Maldives; denomination as registration device; jet airplane taking off from Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (MLE); fisherman carrying skipjack tuna and yellow fin tuna; cowry shell (Cyprea moneta). Back (vertical): Traditional sail boat (Dhoni). No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): Unknown. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 5 OCTOBER 2015. Sig. 5. Intro: December 2015.
The theme of this note is “our industrial and economic progress.”

Maldives_MMA_50_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B218as_PNLs_A_000000_fMaldives_MMA_50_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B218as_PNLs_A_000000_r
B218 (PNL): 50 rufiyaa (US$3.25)
Green. Front: Underprint of stone carvings in the Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiy); denomination as registration device; men pulling boats from the beach onto the water (Dhoni beylun); seated boy reciting the Holy Quran. Back (vertical): The minaret of the Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiy). No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): Unknown. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 5 OCTOBER 2015. Sig. 5. Intro: December 2015.
The theme of this note is “our unity and Islamic values.”

Maldives_MMA_100_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B219as_PNLs_A_000000_fMaldives_MMA_100_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B219as_PNLs_A_000000_r
B219 (PNL): 100 rufiyaa (US$6.50)
Red. Front: Underprint of old Dhivehi alphabet (Dives akuru); denomination as registration device; group of locals in traditional attire; seated woman wearing traditional dress (Libaas), working on the neckline threading (Hiru) of a similar dress. Back (vertical): Early Dhivehi scripture (Dambidū Lōmāfānu). No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): Unknown. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 5 OCTOBER 2015. Sig. 5. Intro: December 2015.
The theme of this note is “nationalism and our native language.”

Maldives_MMA_500_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B220as_PNLs_A_000000_fMaldives_MMA_500_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B220as_PNLs_A_000000_r
B220 (PNL): 500 rufiyaa (US$33)
Orange. Front: Underprint of Kuribontaa pattern found on traditional hand weaved mats made out of hay (Thun’du kunaa); denomination as registration device; seated woman making ekels (Iloshi), traditionally used for brooms (Iloshi fathii); artisan carving wood using mallet and chisel; flower Spark ORBITAL patch. Back (vertical): Traditional hand carved vase with lacquer work detailing. No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): Unknown. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 5 OCTOBER 2015. Sig. 5. Intro: December 2015.
The theme of this note is “our ancestral craftsmanship.”

Maldives_MMA_1000_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B221as_PNLs_A_000000_fMaldives_MMA_1000_rufiyaa_2015.10.05_B221as_PNLs_A_000000_r
B221 (PNL): 1,000 rufiyaa (US$66)
Blue. Front: Underprint of spot and striped pattern on the skin of whale sharks; denomination as registration device; manta rays (Manta alfredi); green turtle (Chelonia mydas); corals SPARK patch; luxury resort. Back (vertical): Whale shark (Rhincodon typus). No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): Unknown. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 5 OCTOBER 2015. Sig. 5. Intro: December 2015.
The theme of this note is “the beauty in our surrounding.”

Courtesy of Cleo Phas and Timothy Middleton.

Ghana new date (01.07.2015) 50-cedi note (B151c) confirmed

Ghana_BOG_50_cedis_2015.07.01_B151c_P42_XK_8099790_fGhana_BOG_50_cedis_2015.07.01_B151c_P42_XK_8099790_r
Like B151b, but new date (1st JULY 2015). Prefix XK.

Courtesy of Merjim Groen.

Ghana new date (01.07.2015) 10-cedi note (B147f) confirmed

Ghana_BOG_10_cedis_2015.07.01_B147f_P39_TC_2179347_fGhana_BOG_10_cedis_2015.07.01_B147f_P39_TC_2179347_r
Like B147e, but new date (1st JULY 2015). Prefix TC.

Courtesy of Merjim Groen.

Malawi new date (01.01.2015) 20-kwacha note (B157b) confirmed

Malawi_RBM_20_kwacha_2015.01.01_B158b_PNL_AW_0295650_fMalawi_RBM_20_kwacha_2015.01.01_B158b_PNL_AW_0295650_r
Like B157a, but new date. Prefix AW.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Iran new 50,000-rial commemorative note (B290) confirmed

This note commemorates the 80th anniversary of the founding of the University of Tehran.

Iran_CBI_50000_rials_2015.10.00_B290a_PNL_34-20_114100_fIran_CBI_50000_rials_2015.10.00_B290a_PNL_34-20_114100_r
B290 (PNL): 50,000 rials (US$1.80)
Purple, brown, green, and orange. Front: Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Back: Tree; entrance to Tehran University; double-helix strand of DNA; Capable is / the one who is wise / Knowledge makes / the old heart young / Ferdowsi; chemical symbol; planet Saturn. Holographic windowed security thread with demetalized 50000 and stylized sun. Watermark: Ruhollah Khomeini. Printer: Unknown. 166 x 79 mm.
a. No date. Signature 30. Intro: 2015.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online) and Hamid Kazemi.


Bulgaria to replace 2-lev note with coin on 07.12.2015

Bulgaria_BNB_2_leva_1999.00.00_P115a_AB_8800904_f
According to a press release dated 22 October 2015, the Bulgarian National Bank has announced that beginning 7 December 2015, its current 2-lev banknote (P115) will be replaced with a circulation bi-metallic coin of the same denomination. The existing 2-lev notes will remain legal tender circulating in parallel with the new coin.

Nicaragua new note family (B506 - B511) confirmed

According to a press release dated 12 October 2015, the Banco Central de Nicaragua has unveiled the designs of its new note family which it introduced on 26 October 2015. All of the denominations are printed on polymer substrate, except for the 500-córdoba note (B511) which is printed on cotton paper substrate. Existing notes will continue to circulate in parallel and will be withdrawn as they deteriorate.

Nicaragua_BCN_10_cordobas_2014.03.26_B506a_PNL_A_00445110_fNicaragua_BCN_10_cordobas_2014.03.26_B506a_PNL_A_00445110_rNicaragua_BCN_20_cordobas_2014.03.26_B507a_PNL_A_00636307_fNicaragua_BCN_20_cordobas_2014.03.26_B507a_PNL_A_00636307_rNicaragua_BCN_50_cordobas_2014.03.26_B508a_PNL_A_00830810_fNicaragua_BCN_50_cordobas_2014.03.26_B508a_PNL_A_00830810_rNicaragua_BCN_100_cordobas_2014.03.26_B509a_PNL_A_02291810_fNicaragua_BCN_100_cordobas_2014.03.26_B509a_PNL_A_02291810_rNicaragua_BCN_200_cordobas_2014.03.26_B510a_PNL_A_01045810_fNicaragua_BCN_200_cordobas_2014.03.26_B510a_PNL_A_01045810_rNicaragua_BCN_500_cordobas_2014.03.26_B511a_PNL_A_01247110_fNicaragua_BCN_500_cordobas_2014.03.26_B511a_PNL_A_01247110_r

Courtesy of Francisco Orozco Icaza, Cleo Phas, Claudio Marana, and Miguel Arias.

Philippines new 100-peso note with revised color reported for 2016 introduction

Philippines_BSP_100_pesos_2015.00.00_P208_CZ_888888_fPhilippines_BSP_100_pesos_2016.00.00_PNL_fPhilippines_BSP_1000_pesos_2015.00.00_P211_YC_888888_f
According to an article on Rappler.com dated 26 October 2015, Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. announced that by January 2016, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) would issue a new 100-peso banknote (existing P208, top) with a revised mauve color (middle) to easily distinguish it from the blue 1,000-peso note (P211, bottom).

Egypt new 5-pound note (B338) confirmed

Egypt_CBE_5_pounds_2014.12.28_B338a_PNL_312_fEgypt_CBE_5_pounds_2014.12.28_B338a_PNL_312_r
B338: Like B329, but latent image at upper right front, wider windowed security thread to left of vignette on front.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.


Egypt new 10-pound note (B339) confirmed

Egypt_CBE_10_pounds_2014.08.18_B339a_PNL_371_fEgypt_CBE_10_pounds_2014.08.18_B339a_PNL_371_r
B339: Like B330, but latent image at lower left front, wider windowed security thread to right of vignette on front.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.


Moldova new 1-leu note (B117) confirmed

Moldova_BNM_1_leu_2015.00.00_B117a_PNL_A.0304_440930_fMoldova_BNM_1_leu_2015.00.00_B117a_PNL_A.0304_440930_r
B117: Like B108, but with demetalized BNM on the solid security thread and denomination as registration device at lower right front.

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.

Venezuela new date (27.12.2012) 2-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_2_bolívares_2012.12.27_P88_R_78935955_fVenezuela_BCV_2_bolívares_2012.12.27_P88_R_78935955_r
Like P88, but new date (27 DE DICIEMBRE DE 2012). Signatures unchanged from preceding variety dated 31 DE ENERO DE 2012.

Courtesy of Alexander Petrov.

Hedjaz chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Hedjaz chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 5-page catalog covers the unissued notes of The Arabian National Bank of Hedjaz from 1925. Published 23 October 2015.

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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Namibia new 20-dollar note (B217) without OVI confirmed

According to a media release dated 6 October 2015, on 20 October the Bank of Namibia introduced new 10- and 20-dollar banknotes which are like the existing notes (B214 and B215, respectively), but without the large OVI diamond at center front as a cost-savings measure.

Namibia_BON_20_dollars_2015.00.00_B217a_PNL_D_86864168_fNamibia_BON_20_dollars_2015.00.00_B217a_PNL_D_86864168_r

Courtesy of Heinrich Lindner.

West African States new sig/date (2015) 10,000-franc note (B124Ao) confirmed

West_African_States_BC_10000_francs_2015.00.00_B124Ao_P118A_15265332722_fWest_African_States_BC_10000_francs_2015.00.00_B124Ao_P118A_15265332722_r
Like B124An, but new date (2015) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Thomas Neldner.

West African States new sig/date (2015) 5,000-franc note (B123Ao) confirmed

West_African_States_BC_5000_francs_2015.00.00_B123Ao_P117A_15251369558_fWest_African_States_BC_5000_francs_2015.00.00_B123Ao_P117A_15251369558_r
Like B123An, but new date (2015) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Thomas Neldner.

Namibia new 10-dollar note (B216) without OVI confirmed

According to a media release dated 6 October 2015, on 20 October the Bank of Namibia introduced new 10- and 20-dollar banknotes which are like the existing notes (B214 and B215, respectively), but without the large OVI diamond at center front as a cost-savings measure.

Namibia_BON_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B216a_PNL_A_78952579_fNamibia_BON_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B216a_PNL_A_78952579_r

Courtesy of Heinrich Lindner.

Moldova new 100-leu note (B121) confirmed

Moldova_BNM_100_lei_2015.00.00_B121a_PNL_F.00158_088435_fMoldova_BNM_100_lei_2015.00.00_B121a_PNL_F.00158_088435_r
B121: Like B113, but physically larger, demetalized BNM on the solid security thread, denomination as registration device at lower right front on all notes, intaglio printing, blind embossing of the denomination, and electrotype BNM added to the watermark.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Rimidal*.

Switzerland new sig/date (2010) 100-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_100_francs_2010.00.00_P72i_10_F_1449721_r
P72: Like P72, but new signtures (H.U.Raggenbass/Philipp Hildebrand) and new date (2010).

Courtesy of Jürg Rindlisbacher.

Switzerland new sig/date (2014) 20-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_20_francs_2014.00.00_P69_14_U_0247922_r
P69: Like P69, but new signtures (Jean Studer/Jean Pierre Dantine) and new date (2014).

Courtesy of Jürg Rindlisbacher.

Mexico new sig/date (17.10.2013) 100-peso note confirmed

Mexico_BDM_100_pesos_2013.10.17_P124_AH_N7473421_f
Mexico_BDM_100_pesos_2013.10.17_P124_AH_N7473421_r
P124: Like P124, but new date (17 OCT. 2013) and new signatures. Series AH.

Courtesy of Alberto Rios.

New Zealand new 5- and 10-dollar notes (B137, B138) confirmed

According to a press release dated 9 October 2015, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has introduced new 5- and 10-dollar notes (B137 and B138, respectively).

New_Zealand_RBNZ_5_dollars_2015.10.00_B137a_PNL_AB_15240433_f
New_Zealand_RBNZ_5_dollars_2015.10.00_B137a_PNL_AB_15240433_r

New_Zealand_RBNZ_10_dollars_2015.10.00_B138a_PNL_AB_15329377_f
New_Zealand_RBNZ_10_dollars_2015.10.00_B138a_PNL_AB_15329377_r

Courtesy of Greg Quinn, Dennis Zammit, and Scott de Young.

South Africa new signature 50-rand note confirmed

South_Africa_SARB_50_rand_2013.11.06_B769b_P140_GM_5415627_C_fSouth_Africa_SARB_50_rand_2013.11.06_B769b_P140_GM_5415627_C_r
P140: Like P140, but new signature (E. Lesetja Kganyago). Prefix GJ - GM.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Isle of Man new signature 5-pound note (B115c) confirmed

Isle_of_Man_IOMG_5_pounds_2015.09.00_B115c_P41_M_126401_fIsle_of_Man_IOMG_5_pounds_2015.09.00_B115c_P41_M_126401_r
B115c: Like B115b, but new signature (Malcolm Couch). Replacement notes: Prefix Z. Issued notes: Prefix M.

Courtesy of Frank Schneider and Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk).


Sweden new 20-krona note confirmed


Sweden_SR_20_kronor_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_B_101772170_fSweden_SR_20_kronor_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_B_101772170_r
20 kronor (US$3.15)
Purple. Front: Denomination as registration device; children’s writer Astrid Lindgren; three crowns; open books and walking child; open book gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Trees, road, and boulders in Småland, where Astrid Lindgren grew up; flowers; map of Sweden. Solid security thread. Watermark: Astrid Lindgren and electrotype 20. Printer: (Tumba Bruk). 120 x 67 mm.
a. (2014). Signature Johan Gernandt/Stefan Ingves. Intro: 01.10.2015.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Cape Verde new 500- and 5,000-escudo notes (B218 and B221) confirmed

According to a press release dated 8 September 2015, the Banco de Cabo Verde planned to introduce new 500- and 5,000-escudo notes on 10 September 2015, thereby completing the new family which consists of 100-, 1,000-, and 2,000-escudo notes issued on 24 December 2014.

Cape_Verde_BCV_500_escudos_2014.06.05_B218a_PNL_CL_000408_fCape_Verde_BCV_500_escudos_2014.06.05_B218a_PNL_CL_000408_r
B218 (PNL): 500 escudos (US$4.90)
Green, orange, red, and purple. Front: Holographic open book; poet Jorge Barbosa; embossed open book. Back: Quill in inkwell; lines from Barbosa’s poem, “Casebre” (struggle); Poilão Dam in the Santa Cruz municipal area on Santiago island (home of Jorge Barbosa); line drawing of women with baskets. Solid security thread with demetalized BCV 500. Watermark: Jorge Barbosa with electrotype typewriter and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 131 x 65 mm.
a. 5 de Julho de 2014. Signature 8. Prefix CA. Intro: 10.09.2015.

Cape_Verde_BCV_5000_escudos_2014.07.05_B221a_PNL_JA_442343_fCape_Verde_BCV_5000_escudos_2014.07.05_B221a_PNL_JA_442343_r
B221 (PNL): 5,000 escudos (US$49)
Purple, light blue, orange, and yellow. Front: Map of Africa as registration device; islands superimposed on house exterior; stylized waves; first president, Aristides Maria Pereira; embossed map of Africa. Back: Stylized wave; map of Boa Vista; landscape of Boa Vista (home of Aristides Maria Pereira), including fireplace of pottery factory. Holographic stripe with Aristides Maria Pereira, BCV, and map of Boa Vista. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BCV 5000 and torch. Watermark: Aristides Maria Pereira and electrotype torch with Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 148 x 74 mm.
a. 5 de Julho de 2014. Signature 8. Prefix JA. Intro: 10.09.2015.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas.

Singapore new 10-dollar notes (B212b - B216b) confirmed with two diamonds on back

All five types of the new 10-dollar polymer commemorative note have been confirmed with either one or two diamonds below the unique wording at lower left back.

Cuba new date (2015) 50-peso note (B910j) confirmed

Cuba_BCC_50_pesos_2015.00.00_B910j_P123_BM_01_692463_fCuba_BCC_50_pesos_2015.00.00_B910j_P123_BM_01_692463_r
Like B910i, but new date (2015). Series BM-01.

Courtesy of Yigal Arkin.

Cuba new date (2014) 5-peso note (B905c) confirmed

Cuba_BCC_5_pesos_2014.00.00_B905c_P116_EN_09_471456_fCuba_BCC_5_pesos_2014.00.00_B905c_P116_EN_09_471456_r
Like B905b, but new date (2014). Series EN-09.

Courtesy of Yigal Arkin.

Sweden new 200-krona note confirmed

Sweden_SR_200_kronor_2015.10.01_BNL_PNL_B_220907095_f
Sweden_SR_200_kronor_2015.10.01_BNL_PNL_B_220907095_r
200 kronor (US$32)
Green. Front: Denomination as registration device; film director Ingmar Bergman; three crowns; Death (Bengt Ekerot) and Bergman conferring on set of The Seventh Seal with camera; clapperboard gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Stone pillars at Gotland (Fårö), where Ingmar Bergman had his home; flowers; map of Sweden. Motion windowed security thread with crown and KR. Solid security thread. Watermark: Ingmar Bergman and electrotype 200. Printer: (Tumba Bruk). 140 x 66 mm.
a. (2014). Signature Johan Gernandt/Stefan Ingves. Intro: 01.10.2015.

Courtesy of Zeeshan Ali and Ilkka Malmi.

Sweden new 50-krona note confirmed

Sweden_SR_50_kronor_2015.10.01_BNL_PNL_B_500760666_f
Sweden_SR_50_kronor_2015.10.01_BNL_PNL_B_500760666_r
50 kronor (US$7.85)
Yellow and orange. Front: Denomination as registration device; musical notes on scale; poet, composer, and artist Evert Taube; three crowns; waterfall; sailboat gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Flowers; lighthouse at Bohuslän, one of the many places from which Evert Taube drew inspiration; boats; map of Sweden. Solid security thread. Watermark: Evert Taube and electrotype 50. Printer: (Tumba Bruk). 126 x 66 mm.
a. (2014). Signature Johan Gernandt/Stefan Ingves. Intro: 01.10.2015.

Courtesy of Zeeshan Ali and Ilkka Malmi.

Sweden new note family reportedly introduced 01.10.2015

According to a press release dated 1 October 2015, the Svergies Riksbank has introduced new 20-, 50-, 200-, and 1,000-krona banknotes. It is the first step in the major overhaul of Sweden's banknotes and coins. The existing notes of these denominations will continue to circulate in parallel, but will become invalid after 30 June 2016.

In October 2016, the new 100- and 500-krona banknotes, together with new 1-, 2-, and 5-krona coins will be introduced. After 30 June 2017, the current notes and coins of these denominations will become invalid.

Courtesy of Wesley Green and Zeeshan Ali.

Kenya new banknote family reported for introduction 29.09.2015

According to an article on KBC dated 25 September 2015, on National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich says the government has finalized preparations for the new currency whose features would be unveiled on 29 September.

Article 231 section 4 of the Constitution prohibits the use of portraits or images of individuals on the currency and instead says notes and coins should only bear images that depict or symbolize an aspect of Kenya. Central Bank of Kenya was given until the beginning of this month to adhere to this. Rotich says despite the delay details of the new design of the local currency are now ready and would be unveiled next week.

He made the remarks during the launch of the CBK@50 celebrations, the first in a series of activities running for one year and culminating in celebrations slated for September, 2016 when CBK turns 50.

UPDATE: As of 10 October 2015, there is nothing about a new family of notes on the Central Bank of Kenya's web site.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas.

Moldova new note family (B117 - B123) reported for introduction on 12.10.2015

These notes are like preceding issues, except for the 100-leu note which is phyiscally larger and now equal in size to the larger denominations. New security features include demetalized BNM on the solid security thread, denomination as registration device at lower right front on all notes, intaglio printing and blind embossing of the denomination on all but the 1-leu note. Furthermore, the 100-, 200-, and 500-leu notes have electrotype BNM added to the watermark.

Moldova_BNM_1_leu_2015.00.00_B117as_PNLs_A.0000_000000_fMoldova_BNM_1_leu_2015.00.00_B117as_PNLs_A.0000_000000_r
Moldova_BNM_10_lei_2015.00.00_B118as_PNLs_C.0000_000000_fMoldova_BNM_10_lei_2015.00.00_B118as_PNLs_C.0000_000000_rMoldova_BNM_20_lei_2015.00.00_B119as_PNLs_D.0000_000000_fMoldova_BNM_20_lei_2015.00.00_B119as_PNLs_D.0000_000000_rMoldova_BNM_50_lei_2015.00.00_B120as_PNLs_E.0000_000000_fMoldova_BNM_50_lei_2015.00.00_B120as_PNLs_E.0000_000000_rMoldova_BNM_100_lei_2015.00.00_B121as_PNLs_F.0000_000000_fMoldova_BNM_100_lei_2015.00.00_B121as_PNLs_F.0000_000000_rMoldova_BNM_200_lei_2015.00.00_B122as_PNLs_H.0000_000000_fMoldova_BNM_200_lei_2015.00.00_B122as_PNLs_H.0000_000000_rMoldova_BNM_500_lei_2015.00.00_B123as_PNLs_H.0000_000000_fMoldova_BNM_500_lei_2015.00.00_B123as_PNLs_H.0000_000000_r

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Paul Soboleff.

Colombia new banknote family reported for introduction in 2016


Despite years of planning to remove three zeros from the currency, according to a press release dated 25 September 2015, in 2016 the Banco de la República Colombia will introduce a new family of notes in denominations of 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 pesos. The 100,000-peso note is new.
The new family of banknotes gives continuity to the concept of biodiversity present in the family of coins that began circulating in June 2012, while highlighting a group of cultural elements and landscapes of our geography which have become symbols of the Colombian wealth, variety and creativity. Additionally, it pays tribute to major characters of the country’s culture, science and politics, and reinforces recognition of women’s role in the Colombian society.
  • $100,000 banknote. The obverse will pay tribute to President Carlos Lleras Restrepo, complying with Act 1167 of 2007. The reverse will contain an image of Valle de Cocora, Quindío, and the wax palm, the national tree. To be issued 2016Q1.
  • $50,000 banknote. The front will be dedicated to our Nobel prize in literature, Gabriel García Márquez, complying with Act 1741 of 2014. The reverse side will include a picture of Ciudad Perdida, the heart of the Tayrona culture in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. To be issued 2016Q3.
  • $20,000 banknote. The front will be devoted to president Alfonso López Michelsen, complying with Act 1599 of 2012. The back will present the image of the canals at La Mojana where the Zenú people settled, and the famous “sombrero vueltiao,” complying with Act 908 of 2004. To be issued 2016Q2.
  • $10,000 banknote. The front will portray the image of anthropologist Virginia Gutierrez, a pioneer in family research in Colombia. The back will feature an image of the Amazon with its exotic biodiversity. To be issued 2016Q4.
  • $5,000 banknote. The front will include the image of the poet José Asunción Silva. The reverse will display the Colombian páramos, ecosystems of unparalleled wealth. To be issued 2016Q4.
  • $2,000 banknote. The front will bear the image of painter Débora Arango, a pioneer of modern art in Colombia. The reverse will exalt Caño Cristales, the beautiful river of five colors, located in the Sierra de la Macarena. To be issued 2016Q4.
The new banknotes will share special characteristics. They will incorporate inks and security threads of vivid colors with color changing and movement effects to facilitate their identification. Also, they will serve to address more adequately the needs of the visually impaired thanks to differentiation in their sizes and the incorporation of touch-sensitive elements.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas, Camilo Uribe Botta, and Cedrian López Bosch.

Sri Lanka new signature 10-rupee note (B101c1) confirmed

Sri_Lanka_CBSL_10_rupees_1989.02.21_B101c1_P96_F-100_505285_f
Sri Lanka B101c has been confirmed dated 1989-02-21 with signature varieties 4a and 4b (previously only sig 4b was known).

Courtesy of Krishan Rodrigo.

South Africa new signature 10-rand note (P138) confirmed

South_Africa_SARB_10_rand_2015.00.00_B767b_P138_FN_3149649_A_ffSouth_Africa_SARB_10_rand_2015.00.00_B767b_P138_FN_3149649_A_rr
10 rand: Like P138, but new signature. Prefix FN.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Recommended reading: Money for everything

In the 3 October 2015 edition of The Economist, there's an interesting article "Money for everything" which asserts that "Despite many usurpers, cash is still king." Good news for banknote collectors!

Courtesy of Mark Irwin.

Argentina new 5-peso note confirmed introduced 01.10.2015

Argentina_BCRA_5_pesos_2015.10.01_BNL_PNL_00020558_A_f
Argentina_BCRA_5_pesos_2015.10.01_BNL_PNL_00020558_A_r
(PNL): 5 pesos (US$1)
Green, light blue, violet, and yellow. Front: Handshake as registration device; sunburst symbolizing Orden del Libertador (Order of the Liberator); branch with flowers; OVI patch of statue; José de San Martín in military uniform; OVI patch of standing soldier with boots, sword, and helmet. Back: José Artigas, Simón Bolívar, José de San Martín, and Bernardo O’Higgins; flags, flames, and presidential seal; coat of arms; handshake. No security thread. Watermark: José de San Martín and electrotype JSM. Printer: S.E. CASA DE MONEDA. 155 x 65 mm.
a. No date. Signature Alejandro Vanoli and unknown. Suffix A. Intro: 01.10.2015.

Press release in Spanish.

Courtesy of Alexander Petrov.

Thailand new signature 50-baht note confirmed

Thailand_BOT_50_baht_2012.01.18_PNL_G1_2669071_f
Thailand_BOT_50_baht_2012.01.18_PNL_G1_2669071_r
PNL: Like PNL originally issued 18.01.2012, but new signatures. Prefix 1G.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Sudan new sig/date (03.2015) 50-pound note (B411b) confirmed

Sudan_CBS_50_sudanese_pounds_2015.03.00_B411b_P75_FH_34651141_fSudan_CBS_50_sudanese_pounds_2015.03.00_B411b_P75_FH_34651141_r
Like B411a, but new signature (Abdelrahman Hassan Abdelrahman Hashim) and new date (MARCH 2015). Prefix FH.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Namibia new 10- and 20-dollar notes (B216 and B217) without OVI reported for 20.10.2015

Namibia_BON_10_dollars_2013.00.00_B214a_P11b_A_35367513_f
B214a

Namibia_BON_20_dollars_2013.00.00_B215a_P12b_D_44353333_f
B215a

According to a media release dated 6 October 2015, on 20 October the Bank of Namibia will introduce new N$10 and N$20 banknotes which are like the existing notes (B214 and B215, respectively, shown above), but without the large OVI diamond at center front as a cost-savings measure.

Courtesy of Heinrich Lindner.

Costa Rica new sig/date (19.09.2012) 20,000-colon note (B562b) confirmed

Costa_Rica_BCCR_20000_colones_2012.09.19_P278_A_036065855_fCosta_Rica_BCCR_20000_colones_2012.09.19_P278_A_036065855_r
Like B562a, but new signatures (Rodrigo Bolaños Zamora/Félix Delgado Quesada) and new date (19 de setiembre de 2012). Intro: 27.01.2015. Press release in Spanish.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Burundi new 1,000-franc note (B237a) confirmed

According to a press release, on 1 September 2015 the Banque de la République du Burundi introduced a new 1,000-franc note (B237a). This note completes the new family which also includes the following denominations: 500, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 francs, all dated 15-01-2015 and introduced on 29 April 2015.

Burundi_BRB_1000_francs_2015.01.15_B237a_PNL_BA_7096359_fBurundi_BRB_1000_francs_2015.01.15_B237a_PNL_BA_7096359_r
B237 (PNL): 1,000 francs (US$0.65)
Green. Front: Fish as registration device; bird perched on branch; coat of arms; cattle; flag. Back: Map outline of Burundi; banana trees; fish; bank logo. Windowed holographic security thread with demetalized head of heifer, stars, and BRB. Watermark: Prince Louis Rwagasore and electrotype BRB. Printer: Unknown. 125 x 65 mm.
a. 15-01-2015. Signature 30. Prefix BA. Intro: 01.09.2015.

Burundi_BRB_1000_francs_2009.05.01_B233a_P46_BZ_409102_fBurundi_BRB_1000_francs_2009.05.01_B233a_P46_BZ_409102_r
Preceding 1,000-franc notes (B233a, above) will continue to circulate in parallel until 1 December 2015, at which time they lose their legal tender status, but the bank will accept them at a discount of 5% for a time to be announced.

Courtesy of Jerome Deschamps (www.banknoteslinks.com) and Thomas Augustsson.

Dominican Republic new 1,000-peso dominicano note confirmed

Dominican_Republic_BCRD_1000_pesos_dominicanos_2014.00.00_PNL_AC_2429301_fDominican_Republic_BCRD_1000_pesos_dominicanos_2014.00.00_PNL_AC_2429301_r
(P193): 1,000 pesos dominicanos
Red, violet, and yellow. Front: Bank seal; Rose of Bayahibe flowers; Palacio Nacional (National Palace) building in Santo Domingo. Back: Alcázar de Colón (Diego Colón castle) museum building in Santo Domingo. Windowed security thread with demetalized MIL PESOS DOMINICANOS. Watermark: Juan Pablo Duarte. Printer: (TDLR).158 x 67 mm.
a. 2014. Signatures uknown. Prefix AA - AC. Intro: 02.10.2014.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).


Belize new sig/date (01.11.2014) 2-dollar note (B324e) confirmed

Belize_CBB_2_dollars_2014.11.01_B324e_P66_DM_264301_fBelize_CBB_2_dollars_2014.11.01_B324e_P66_DM_264301_r
Like B324d, but new date (1st. NOVEMBER 2014) and new signature for Director at right. Prefix DM.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Bangladesh new date (2015) 100-taka note (B352e) confirmed

B352e: Like B352d, but new date (2015). Intro: 28.09.2015.

Courtesy of Syeed Bin Salam (Tuhin).


Vietnam new date (2015) 500,000-dong note (B348k) confirmed

Vietnam_SBV_500000_dong_2015.00.00_B348k_P124_SO_1505136_fVietnam_SBV_500000_dong_2015.00.00_B348k_P124_SO_1505136_r
Like B348j, but new date (2015).

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).


India new novel numbering 500-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_500_rupees_2015.00.00_B290h_P106_1AG_754093_E_fIndia_RBI_500_rupees_2015.00.00_B290h_P106_1AG_754093_E_r
Like P106, but with novel "ascending size" serial numbers.

Courtesy of Indiararecoins on eBay.

India new novel numbering 1,000-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B291f_P107_4AA_852129_L_fIndia_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B291f_P107_4AA_852129_L_r
Like P107, but with novel "ascending size" serial numbers.

Courtesy of Indiararecoins on eBay.

United Arab Emirates new 20-dirham note (B238a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_20_dirhams_2015.00.00_B238a_PNL_050_435801_fUnited_Arab_Emirates_CBA_20_dirhams_2015.00.00_B238a_PNL_050_435801_r
B238 (PNL): 20 dirhams (US$5.45)
Blue. Front: Coat of arms; Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club building. Back: Saker falcon; dhow with sail. Windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 20. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 20 and coffee pot. Printer: Unknown. 150 x 63 mm. a. 2015 and ١٤٣٦ (AH1436). Sig 4. Prefix 050.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

United Arab Emirates new 1,000-dirham note (B243a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_1000_dirhams_2015.00.00_B243a_PNL_052_869645_fUnited_Arab_Emirates_CBA_1000_dirhams_2015.00.00_B243a_PNL_052_869645_r
B243 (PNL): 1,000 dirhams (US$272)
Brown. Front: Saker falcon head as registration device; OVI coat of arms; Al Hosn Palace (White Fort) in Abu Dhabi. Back: Saker falcon; Abu Dhabi skyline with Corniche; Saker falcon head. Holographic stripe with denomination. 3-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 1000. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 1000 and coffee pot. Printer: Unknown. 163 x 70 mm.
a. 2015 and ١٤٣٦ (AH1436). Sig 4. Prefix 052.

Courtesy of Naeem Ahsan Jamil.


United Arab Emirates new 10-dirham note (B237a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_10_dirhams_2015.00.00_B237a_PNL_165_469502_fUnited_Arab_Emirates_CBA_10_dirhams_2015.00.00_B237a_PNL_165_469502_r
B237 (P27d): 10 dirhams (US$2.70)
Green. Front: Coat of arms; traditional dagger (khanjar). Back: Saker falcon; agricultural scene with date palm trees. Solid security thread with demetalized UAE 10. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 10 and coffee pot. Printer: Unknown. 147 x 62 mm.
a. 2015 and ١٤٣٦ (AH1436). Sig 4. Prefix 165.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Republika Srpska chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Republika Srpska chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 8-page catalog covers notes issued by the Narodna Banka Srpske Republike Bosne I Hercegovine (National Bank of the Serbian Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina) from 1992 to 1993, and the Narodna Banka Republike Srpske (National Bank of the Serbian Republic) from 1993 to 1995. Published 18 September 2015.

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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Kazakhstan new signature 500-tenge note (B129b) confirmed

Kazakhstan_NBK_500_tenge_2006.00.00_B129b_P29_EK_9091909_fKazakhstan_NBK_500_tenge_2006.00.00_B129b_P29_EK_9091909_r
Like B129a, but new signature (Kairat Kelimbetov). Prefix EK, EЛ. Intro: 2015.

Courtesy of Arsentij Khonin.

Sudan new sig/date (March 2015) 20-pound note (B410c) confirmed

Sudan_CBS_20_sudanese_pounds_2015.03.00_B410c_PNL_EH_28660724_f
Sudan_CBS_20_sudanese_pounds_2015.03.00_B410c_PNL_EH_28660724_r
Like B410b, but new date (MARCH 2015), new signature (Abdelrahman Hassan Abdelrahman Hashim), and windowed thread on back, not front. Prefix EH.

Courtesy of Vic Krysko.

Canada new 20-dollar commemorative polymer note (B376) confirmed issued 09.09.2015

Canada_BOC_20_dollars_2015.00.00_B376a_PNL_FWT_0361300_fCanada_BOC_20_dollars_2015.00.00_B376a_PNL_FWT_0361300_r
According to a press release dated 9 September 2015, the Bank of Canada reportedly introduced a 20-dollar polymer banknote (B376) to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II on becoming the longest-reigning sovereign in Canada’s modern era.

The commemorative bank note is a variation of the existing $20 polymer bank note (B373) that already features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The new note is identical to the current $20 note, with one distinct difference: its large window contains a range of special design elements, including a portrait of Her Majesty wearing a crown (tiara) for the first time on a Canadian bank note. The portrait is based on a 1951 image by renowned Canadian photographer Yousuf Karsh – the same photograph that inspired the portrait engraving of the Queen, without the crown, for the 1954 Canadian Landscape series of bank notes and the 1967 commemorative note celebrating Confederation. Since her accession to the throne in 1952, an image of Her Majesty has appeared on every series of Canadian bank notes.

The Bank of Canada’s Chief of Currency, Richard Wall, unveiled the commemorative note, together with the Governor General of Canada, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston.

“This is a unique milestone in the history of the monarchy in our country, and the Bank of Canada is honoured to mark the occasion in this special way. Over Her Majesty’s reign, the technology behind our bank notes has continually evolved – to the state-of-the-art polymer notes we have today. It is therefore fitting that we are commemorating this historic occasion by using one of the most advanced security features of our current notes – the large holographic window,” said Mr. Wall.

The Bank of Canada will issue 40 million commemorative notes, the first of which will start to be available at financial institutions across Canada tomorrow. They will circulate alongside the existing $20 note, which will continue to be issued and will comprise the vast majority of $20 notes in circulation.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Sri Lanka new sig/date (04.02.2015) 50-rupee note (B124b) confirmed

Sri_Lanka_CBSL_50_rupees_2015.02.04_B124b_P124_V-141_842005_fSri_Lanka_CBSL_50_rupees_2015.02.04_B124b_P124_V-141_842005_r
B124b: Like B124a, but new date (2015-02-04) and new signatures. Prefix V/141.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Sri Lanka new sig/date (04.02.2015) 20-rupee note (B123b) confirmed

Sri_Lanka_CBSL_20_rupees_2015.02.04_B123b_P123_W-283_236081_fSri_Lanka_CBSL_20_rupees_2015.02.04_B123b_P123_W-283_236081_r
B123b: Like B123a, but new date (2015-02-04) and new signatures. Prefix W/238.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Royal Bank of Scotland's new 5- and 10-pound notes to use DLR's Safegaurd polymer substrate

According to a press release dated 7 September 2015, security printer De La Rue announced that the Royal Bank of Scotland's new design 5- and 10-pound banknotes will be issued on DLR's Safeguard polymer substrate. The new notes will be smaller than the existing ones (P352 and P353) and be completely re-designed with new themes and portrait subjects. The designs will be partly revealed in the coming months and, in line with other UK issuing authorities, it is planned that the new 5-pound note will be issued in the second half of 2016 with the 10-pound note to follow in 2017.

Commented David Wheldon, chief marketing officer at the Royal Bank of Scotland, “The move to polymer notes will bring significant benefits to all those who use them. They will be smaller, cleaner and more secure. We are grateful for De La Rue’s assistance with this important project.”

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Bank of England announces new 20-pound note to be polymer in 2018-2020

According to a press release dated 2 September 2015, the Bank of England announced that the next 20-pound banknote will be printed on polymer, a substrate that is more secure, durable, and cleaner than traditional security paper.

In December 2013, the bank announced that the next 5- and 10-pound banknotes would be printed on polymer following a 10-week public consultation that found 87% of respondent were in favor of the change. The polymer 5-pound note featuring Winston Churchill will be issued in autumn 2016, the 10-pound polymer note featuring Jane Austen entering circulation a year later.

The bank made the decision to move to polymer for the 20-pound note following extensive research into the developments in security features for notes printed on cotton-based paper and polymer since the 2013 decision was made. A competitive tender process for the supply of the polymer for the 20-pound note is expected to start in late 2015.

The note, which will feature a visual artist nominated during the public nominations period held earlier this year, will enter circulation in 3-5 years’ time.

A bank committee is considering which character will appear on the new 20-pound note. It received 29,701 nominations from the public after it announced it wanted to celebrate an artist on the note. Some 592 eligible visual artists are being considered for the honor. The final decision will be made by the bank’s governor, Mark Carney. Favorites include the sculptor and artist Barbara Hepworth, the author Beatrix Potter, and fashion designer Alexander McQueen.

Bolivia improved security 20-boliviano note confirmed

Bolivia_BCB_20_bolivianos_1986.11.28_B114f_PNL_025830131_J_f
Bolivia_BCB_20_bolivianos_1986.11.28_B114f_PNL_025830131_J_r
According to a Spanish-language press release dated 3 March 2015, the Banco Central de Bolivia introduced a 20-boliviano note with suffix J. This note is like P234, but with improved anti-counterfeiting features, including a 3-mm wide magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized BCB 20, and unspecificed blue UV printing.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Iran new 500,000-rial cheque confirmed

According to various web sites, in December 2014 the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran introduced a new 500,000-rial cheque.

Iran_CBI_500000_rials_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_1002_187422_fIran_CBI_500000_rials_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_1002_187422_r
500,000 rials (US$19)
Purple, green, and yellow. Front: Imam Reza Holy Shrine entrance, dome with flag, and minaret in Mashhad; 50 and flying dove as registration devices. Back: Flying dove, Esmail Talayi fountain in the shrine’s court. 2.5-mm windowed security thread with demetalized I. R. IRAN. Solid security thread with demetalized I. R. IRAN. Watermark: Flying dove and electrotype 50. Printer: Unknown. 140 x 68 mm.
a. No date. Signature Valiollah Seif. Intro: December 2014.

Courtesy of Ms. Hamaseh Golestaneh, Christian Funke, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Guinea new smaller 500-franc note (B339) confirmed

Guinea_BCRG_500_francs_2015.00.00_B339a_PNL_NU_136001_fGuinea_BCRG_500_francs_2015.00.00_B339a_PNL_NU_136001_r
B339 (PNL): 500 francs (US$0.10)
Green. Front: Woman with headscarf; coat of arms. Back: Minehead; diamond; ceremonial headdress. Solid security thread. Watermark: Woman with headscarf, RG, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 128 x 63 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 5. Prefix NU.
Like B328, but physically smaller.

Courtesy of Alex Liberia.

Switzerland new date (2014) 20-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_20_francs_2014.00.00_P69_14_N_0037595_r
20 francs: Like P69, but new date (20)14. Signature Jean Studer and Thomas Jordan.

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Trans-Dniester new commemorative notes (B217 - B220) confirmed

On 27 August 2015, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced 1-, 5-, 10-, and 25-ruble banknotes commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Pridnestrovskaya Moldavskaya Respublica. 2,525 pieces of each denomination were issued into circulation.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2015.00.00_B217a_PNL_TT_0002102_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2015.00.00_B217a_PNL_TT_0002102_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_5_rubles_2015.00.00_B218a_PNL_TT_0002102_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_5_rubles_2015.00.00_B218a_PNL_TT_0002102_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_2015.00.00_B219a_PNL_TT_0002102_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_2015.00.00_B219a_PNL_TT_0002102_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_25_rubles_2015.00.00_B220a_PNL_TT_0002102_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_25_rubles_2015.00.00_B220a_PNL_TT_0002102_r

2,000 sets of notes were sold in folders.
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2015.00.00_BNP208a_PNL_folder_1

Courtesy of Paul Soboleff (www.fox-notes.ru) and Albert Vokhmin.

Singapore two-diamond 10-dollar notes (B213b/B214b) confirmed

Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B213b_PNL_5AC_313040_f
Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B213b_PNL_5AC_313040_r
B213b: Like B213a, but with two diamonds below Opportunities for All on back. Prefix 5AC.

Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B214b_PNL_5BV_228866_fSingapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B214b_PNL_5BV_228866_r
B214b: Like B214a, but with two diamonds below Strong Families on back. Prefix 5BV.

Courtesy of Morten Brumoen.


West African States chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The West African States chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.


This 30-page catalog covers notes issued by Banque Centrale des Etats de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (Central Bank of the West African States) from 1959 to present. Published 28 August 2015.

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.

Subscribe
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.

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Tonga new signature 20-pa'anga note (B216b) confirmed

Tonga_NRBT_20_paanga_2015.00.00_B16b_P41_C_089413_f
Tonga_NRBT_20_paanga_2015.00.00_B16b_P41_C_089413_r
B216b: Like B216, but new signatures. Prefix B, C.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.



Venezuela new 500- and 1,000-bolivár notes reported for 2016 introduction

According to an article in the Australia Finanical Review dated 27 August 2015, the Banco Central de Venezuela is planning to introduce 500- and 1,000-bolivár notes after the 6 December 2015 congressional elections. With inflation likely to top 150% for 2015, the value of the currency has eroded to the point that the current highest denomination, the 100-bolivár note, is worth only approximately US$15.90 at official exchange rates (one US dollar is currently worth 725 bolivars on the black market).

Courtesy of Tristan Kolm.

Oman Currency Museum is open to the public

The Times of Oman has a nice article dated 27 August 2015 about the Oman Currency Museum which looks like a must-see for any collector passing through Oman.

Poland new 20-złoty commemorative note (BNP819) confirmed

To commemorate the 600th anniversary of the birth of Jan Długosz (priest, historian, writer, geographer, and diplomat), the National Bank of Poland will begin selling 30,000 new numismatic products beginning on 24 August 2015. Designed by Andrzej Heidrich, the note features a Quick Recognition Code at lower left front. This code is engraved by laser on the surface of the special cotton-based paper substrate. When scanned with an Internet-enabled mobile device, the code goes to a web site which tells the story of this note.

Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2015.01.28_BNP819a_PNL_JD_0023173_f
Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2015.01.28_BNP819a_PNL_JD_0023173_r
BNP819 (PNL): 20 złotych (US$6.55)
Brown, green, gold, and violet. Front: 1415 as registration device; open book; coat of arms with crowned eagle; Jan Długosz. Back: Wieniawa coat of arms; Wawel Cathedral in Kraków; stained glass window. Solid security thread with demetalized 20 ZŁ. Watermark: Shield with crowned eagle. Printer: (PWPW). 138 x 69 mm.
a. 28 STYCZNIA 2015. Signature 17. Prefix JD. Intro: 24.08.2015.

Courtesy of Jan Bogus and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Singapore new 10- and one 50-dollar commemorative notes (B212 - B217) confirmed

According to a press release dated 18 August 2015, the Monetary Authority of Singapore unveiled a set of six commemorative banknotes celebrating SG50, Singapore’s 50 years of nation-building. The notes comprise a $50 polymer note and five $10 polymer notes.

The note designs drew inspiration from significant milestones and achievements in Singapore’s history, the multiracialism that defines the nation, and the values and aspirations that underpin Singapore’s progress. The front of both the $50 and $10 notes feature the portrait of Mr Yusof Ishak, Singapore’s first President, as in the current Portrait series notes.

The five $10 notes have a common front design and varying back designs depicting the theme ‘Vibrant Nation, Endearing Home’. Each note reflects a value or aspiration that defines this theme:

Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B212a_PNL_5BG_084489_f
Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B212a_PNL_5BG_084489_r
B212 (PNL): 10 dollars (US$7.70)
Red. Front: Coat of arms; lion head as registration device; gold lion head; brown 10; orchid flower; Yusof bin Ishak. Back: …regardless of race, language or religion…; orchid flower pattern underprint; eight boys and girls wearing tee shirts and shorts; lion head. Security thread shaped like Singapore island. Watermark (shadow image): Outline map of Singapore. Printer: Unknown. 141 x 69 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Signature 3. One diamond below regardless… on back. Prefix 5BG. Intro: 20.08.2015.

Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B213a_PNL_5BL_144048_r
B213 (PNL): 10 dollars (US$7.70)
Red. Front: Coat of arms; lion head as registration device; gold lion head; brown 10; orchid flower; Yusof bin Ishak. Back: Opportunities for All; orchid flower pattern underprint; soccer (football) coach and three players; construction worker with blueprint; dancer; scientist with beakers and test tubes; chef wearing toque stirring wok, boy in wheelchair and two seated girls; financial trader with keyboard and stock charts on monitors; teacher pointing to Singapore on globe; lion head. Security thread shaped like Singapore island. Watermark (shadow image): Outline map of Singapore. Printer: Unknown. 141 x 69 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Signature 3. One diamond below Opportunities… on back. Prefix 5BL. Intro: 20.08.2015.

Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B214a_PNL_5BB_067226_r
B214 (PNL): 10 dollars (US$7.70)
Red. Front: Coat of arms; lion head as registration device; gold lion head; brown 10; orchid flower; Yusof bin Ishak. Back: Strong Families; orchid flower pattern underprint; man reading book to child sitting in lap; man, woman, and child riding tandom bicycle with building cityscape in background; extended family seated with 50th Anniversary cake; man and woman fixing epaulettes on soldier’s uniform; lion head. Security thread shaped like Singapore island. Watermark (shadow image): Outline map of Singapore. Printer: Unknown. 141 x 69 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Signature 3. One diamond below Strong Families on back. Prefix 5BB. Intro: 20.08.2015.

Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B215a_PNL_5BF_055993_r
B215 (PNL): 10 dollars (US$7.70)
Red. Front: Coat of arms; lion head as registration device; gold lion head; brown 10; orchid flower; Yusof bin Ishak. Back: Safe and Secure; orchid flower pattern underprint; Citizens on Patrol consulting brochure with police officers; solider with binoculars; soldier with clenched hand over heart; woman carrying duffle bag; pilot in flight suit; firefighter with walkie talkie; five fighter jets; lion head. Security thread shaped like Singapore island. Watermark (shadow image): Outline map of Singapore. Printer: Unknown. 141 x 69 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Signature 3. One diamond below Safe and Secure on back. Prefix 5BF. Intro: 20.08.2015.

Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2015.00.00_B216a_PNL_5AX_114190_r
B216 (PNL): 10 dollars (US$7.70)
Red. Front: Coat of arms; lion head as registration device; gold lion head; brown 10; orchid flower; Yusof bin Ishak. Back: Caring Community, Active Citizenry; orchid flower pattern underprint; two women and one man with shovel planting tree sapling; man and woman visiting elderly seated woman; two women with rollers and one man with brush painting walls and window trim; lion head. Security thread shaped like Singapore island. Watermark (shadow image): Outline map of Singapore. Printer: Unknown. 141 x 69 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Signature 3. One diamond below Caring Community on back. Prefix 5AX. Intro: 20.08.2015.

The $50 note highlights Singapore’s history, transformation and future. It shows Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s first Prime Minister, shouting “Merdeka!” – the rallying cry of our independence struggle. The note makes distinctive use of the color gold, reflecting Singapore’s Golden Jubilee.

Singapore_MAS_50_dollars_2015.00.00_B217a_PNL_50BH_275591_fSingapore_MAS_50_dollars_2015.00.00_B217a_PNL_50BH_275591_r
B217 (PNL): 50 dollars (US$38)
Gold, green, and red. Front: Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s first Prime Minister, shouting “Merdeka!” – the rallying cry of independence struggle; four children; coat of arms; Yusof bin Ishak. Back: Orchid flower pattern underprint; modern buildings, automobile bridge, and four kayaks in Punggol New Town; soldiers marching past reviewing stand and flag during First National Day Parade 1966. Watermark (shadow image): Unknown. Printer: Unknown. 156 x 74 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Signature 3. One star below First National Day Parade 1966 on back. Prefix 50BH. Intro: 20.08.2015.

Both the $50 and $10 notes have security features that are the first of their kind in the world to be used on a currency note. The security stripe on the $50 note has a unique see-through feature with “image movement effects” that create depth to the image of Mr Lee Kuan Yew. The SG50 logo has “color-switching effects”, with the year flipping from ‘1965’ to ‘2015’. The $10 notes have a security stripe with a “switching effect” which features the Singapore Coat of Arms, SG50 logo and the years ‘1965’ and ‘2015’.

The SG50 commemorative notes were designed by four local artists and designers, namely Mr Chua Mia Tee, Mr Eng Siak Loy, Mr Weng Ziyan and Mr Fabian Lim.

The public can exchange the SG50 commemorative notes at face value at branches of nine major retail banks from 20 August 2015 onwards.

The public is advised not to rush to obtain the notes. There will be enough notes for Singaporeans. “There will be enough SG50 notes available for exchange. A total of 20 million pieces of the $50 notes and 75 million pieces of $10 notes - 15 million pieces of each design - are being printed. There is no need to rush.”, said Dr Andrew Khoo, Deputy Managing Director (Corporate Development).

Singaporeans will be given priority to exchange the notes from 20 August 2015 to 30 September 2015. During this period, Singaporeans have to present their National Registration Identification Card (NRIC) at the bank in person as proof of citizenship. From 1 October 2015 onwards, the SG50 notes will be made available to non-Singaporeans as well.

To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to exchange the SG50 commemorative notes, there will be a quota of five sets of notes (each set comprising a $50 note and five $10 notes) per transaction per individual. The public can choose to exchange any number or combination of notes subject to a maximum of five notes per design.

Members of the public can also obtain specially-designed folders to keep the commemorative notes. They can obtain one complimentary folder when they exchange for any of the commemorative currency notes. There is no minimum amount they need to exchange to obtain the folder. An additional folder will be given if two full sets of notes (each set comprising a $50 note and five $10 notes) or more are exchanged. The public can only obtain up to a maximum of two folders per transaction. The folders will be available at the banks on a first-come-first-served basis and while stocks last. The nine major retail banks have sponsored 2.8 million of these specially designed folders.

An exclusive collection of seven limited edition SG50 numismatic currency sets are available for sale. The numismatic sets are sold by Noel Gifts International Ltd (Noel Gifts). Details of the numismatic currency sets are at Annex 2. For enquiries, details on prices and orders, the public can contact Noel Gifts on 6299 1155 or place their order online at http://www.sgnumismatic.com. Sets that are oversubscribed will be subjected to balloting. Pre-orders must reach Noel Gifts by 11 September 2015 and will be available for collection by the public on 18 September 2015.

UPDATE: Apparently the name of president Yusof Ishak is misspelt "Yusok Ishak" in the folders carrying the notes and in an enclosed booklet. The notes themselves, however, feature the correct spelling. The Monetary Authority of Singapore says it will print stickers to cover the mistake with the correct spelling.

Courtesy of Tan Wei Jie and Thomas Augustsson.

Thailand new 1,000-baht note confirmed

Thailand_BOT_1000_baht_2015.08.21_BNL_PNL_8A_7485339_f
Thailand_BOT_1000_baht_2015.08.21_BNL_PNL_8A_7485339_r
According to a press release dated 17 August 2015, on 21 August the Bank of Thailand introduced a new 1,000-baht note (series 16), "The design is to glorify His Majesty King Chulalongkorn for his incomparable contributions to the country."

The new banknote has been enhanced with security features to facilitate authentication by machine as well as the general public, including the visually impaired. The color and size of this new 1000-Baht remains unchanged; which is brown in color and 162 x 72 mm in size. Highlights of the security features are;

  1. Watermark: HM King’s portrait watermark and the translucent watermark “๑๐๐๐” can be clearly observed by viewing the note against the light.
  2. Color-shifting Ink with Latent Image: The color of Thai Ornament at the bottom left corner of the note will change from gold to green upon tilting, and the latent image of hidden numerals “1000” becomes visible.
  3. Iridescent Ink: Arabic numerals “1000” and Thai patterns are printed vertically with reddish iridescent ink.
  4. Hologram Foil Stripe: Reflective holographic foil on the right hand side of the note contains the Royal Emblem with Arabic numeral “1000” in center, switching to Thai numeral “๑๐๐๐” when tilting the note.
  5. Windowed Color-shifting Security Thread with Moving-Box Animation: The special security thread on the reverse side illustrates moving-box effect and changes from magenta to green upon tilting.
  6. Tactile Marks: seven horizon lines leading to the four tactile marks in the shape of flowers, representing the braille’s alphabet “T”, symbolizing Thousand (1000), can be identified by touch.

The new 1000-Baht banknote can be exchanged at every commercial bank across the country. The existing and the previous series of 1000-Baht banknote remain legal tender.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).



Pakistan denies plans to introduce 10,000-rupee note

According to a press release dated 18 August 2015, the State Bank of Pakistan "categorically denies the news item reported in a section of press and electronic/social media regarding its plans to issue new banknote of Rs. 10,000/- The SBP has no plans whatsoever for issuance of any higher denomination banknote as seven denominations of existing banknotes are adequately meeting the business/transactional needs of the economy." At present the largest denomination remains the 5,000-rupee notes (B239), worth approximately US$49.

Gibraltar new 100-pound polymer commemorative note to be issued in 2016

sirjosh1
According to a transcript of Gibraltar's Chief Minister Fabian Picardo speech, a new 100-pound banknote will be put into circulation in the first half of 2016. The note will be 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. The design of this, the first 100-pound note ever to be printed on polymer substrate, carries a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on one side and a portrait of Sir Joshua on the other.

Guernsey new signature 10-pound note confirmed

Guernsey_SOG_10_pounds_2015.00.00_P57d_F_600041_f
Guernsey_SOG_10_pounds_2015.00.00_P57d_F_600041_r
Like P57c, but new signature (Bethan Haines). Starting serial number F 600001. Replacement notes: Prefix Z.

Courtesy of Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk).

Nigeria new signature 1,000-naira note (B229k) confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_1000_naira_2014.00.00_B229k_P36_K-98_699201_f
Nigeria_CBN_1000_naira_2014.00.00_B229k_P36_K-98_699201_r
Like B229j, but new signature. Prefix K/98.

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

Nigeria new sig/date (2015) 10-naira note (B235j) confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_10_naira_2015.00.00_B235j_PNL_BV_9386001_f
Nigeria_CBN_10_naira_2015.00.00_B235j_PNL_BV_9386001_r
Like B235i, but new date (2015) and signatures. Prefix BV.

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.


Mexico new date (10.06.2013) 100-peso note confirmed

Mexico_BDM_100_pesos_2013.06.10_P124_AG_G2179547_f
Mexico_BDM_100_pesos_2013.06.10_P124_AG_G2179547_r
P124: Like P124, but new date (10 JUN. 2013), new signatures, and new series AG.

Courtesy of Alberto Rios.

Botswana new date (2014) 20-pula note (B125d) confirmed

Like B125c, but new date (2014). Prefix AH.

Courtesy of Craig Eustace.

Philippines new date (2015) 50-peso note confirmed

Philippines_BSP_50_pesos_2015.00.00_P207_GQ_777777_f
P207: Like P207, but new date (2015). Prefix GQ.

Courtesy of Tan goodluck4u888.

Guatemala new date (17.01.2012) 20-quetzal note confirmed

Guatemala_BDG_20_quetzales_2012.10.17_PNL_E_77528870_C_fGuatemala_BDG_20_quetzales_2012.10.17_PNL_E_77528870_C_r
Like PNL, but new date (17 DE OCTUBRE DE 20120, windowed security thread with demetalized BANCO DE GUATEMALA 20, new printer imprint (Joh. Enschedé), and Braille ⠼⠃⠚ (20) at left front in watermark area. Prefix E. Suffix C.

Courtesy of Alexander Petrov.

Guatemala new date (20.03.2013) 10-quetzal note confirmed

Guatemala_BDG_10_quetzales_2013.03.20_P123_D_07394555_D_f
Guatemala_BDG_10_quetzales_2013.03.20_P123_D_07394555_D_r
Like P123, but new date (20 DE MARZO DE 2013), new printer imprint (PWPW S.A.), and
Braille ⠼⠁⠚ (10) at left front in watermark area. Prefix D. Suffix D.

Courtesy of Alexander Petrov.

Guinea new 5,000-franc note (B337a) confirmed

Guinea_BCRG_5000_francs_2015.00.00_B337a_PNL_AA_392001_fGuinea_BCRG_5000_francs_2015.00.00_B337a_PNL_AA_392001_r
B337 (PNL): 5,000 francs (US$0.70)
Purple, green, red, and blue. Front: Woman with cimier hairstyle; two pigeons taking flight coat of arms; bank logo as registration device. Back: Kinkon dam; mask. 3-mm red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized GNF 5000. Watermark: Woman with cimier hairstyle, RG, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 140 x 65 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 5. Prefix AA. Intro: July 2015.

Courtesy of Oleksiy Danylenko (Alex Liberia).


Madagascar new signature 10,000-ariary note (B329b) reported

Madagascar_BFM_10000_ariary_2015.00.00_B329b_P92b_C8266075_Z_f
Madagascar_BFM_10000_ariary_2015.00.00_B329b_P92b_C8266075_Z_r
B329b: Like B329a, but new signature (presumably Alain Hervé M. Rasolofondraibe). Prefix/suffix C/Z.

Courtesy of Thomas Neldner and Jérémy Pureur.

Indonesia new date (2015) 10,000-rupiah note (B604g) confirmed

Indonesia_BI_10000_rupiah_2015.00.00_B604g_P150_f
Indonesia_BI_10000_rupiah_2015.00.00_B604g_P150_LNQ_360874_r
B604g: Like B604f, but new date (2015 / 2005).

Courtesy of Franer Jürgen.

Indonesia new date (2015) 5,000-rupiah note (B599p) confirmed

Indonesia_BI_5000_rupiah_2015.00.00_B599p_P142_MFY_839444_fIndonesia_BI_5000_rupiah_2015.00.00_B599p_P142_MFY_839444_r
B599p: Like B599o, but new date (2015 / 2005).

Courtesy of Franer Jürgen.

Switzerland new 50-franc note scheduled for April 2016 introduction

According to a press release dated 14 August 2015, the Swiss National Bank plans to begin issuing new banknotes in April 2016. The first denomination to be issued will be the 50-franc note, with the 20-franc note planned for 2017 introduction. The remaining banknotes will be issued subsequently at half-yearly or yearly intervals. The SNB will announce each new issue date well in advance. The issuing of the entire new series is scheduled to be completed by 2019.

Courtesy of Max Keller.

Hong Kong residents demand cash for Japanese WWII military yen

BBC News has an interesting article dated 14 August 2015 on the fight of some Hong Kong residents to cash in on WWII Japanese military yen.

Courtesy of Jim "Rubycored" Chen.

Romania new date (2013) 200-leu note (B284e) confirmed

Romania_BNR_200_lei_2013.00.00_P122_134D_1927486_fRomania_BNR_200_lei_2013.00.00_P122_134D_1927486_r
Like P122, but new date (20)13.

Courtesy of Daniel Mendea (www.dani2collection.blogspot.com).

Romania new date (2015) 100-leu note (B283f) confirmed

Romania_BNR_100_lei_2015.00.00_P121_153C_6658777_fRomania_BNR_100_lei_2015.00.00_P121_153C_6658777_r
Like P121, but new date (20)15.

Courtesy of Daniel Mendea (www.dani2collection.blogspot.com).

Romania new date (2009) 50-leu note (B282e) confirmed

Romania_BNR_50_lei_2009.00.00_P120_096B_6436642_fRomania_BNR_50_lei_2009.00.00_P120_096B_6436642_r
Like P120, but new date (20)09.

Courtesy of Daniel Mendea (www.dani2collection.blogspot.com).

Sri Lanka new sig/date (04.02.2015) 5,000-rupee note (B128b) confirmed

Sri_Lanka_CBSL_5000_rupees_2015.02.04_B128b_P128_R-42_953183_fSri_Lanka_CBSL_5000_rupees_2015.02.04_B128b_P128_R-42_953183_r
B128b: Like B128a, but new date (2015-02-04) and new signatures (Ravi Karunanayake and Lakshman Arjuna Mahendran). Prefix R/42.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Venezuela new sig/date (27.12.2012) 50-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_50_bolívares_2012.12.27_P92_S_30243681_f
Like P92, but new date (27 DE DICIEMBRE DE 2012) and signatures. Prefix S.

Courtesy of José Daniel Fernandez.

Venezuela new sig/date (29.10.2013) 20-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_20_bolívares_2013.10.29_P91_V_19024667_f
Like P91, but new date (29 DE OCTUBRE DE 2013) and signatures. Prefix V.

Courtesy of José Daniel Fernandez.

Venezuela new sig/date (29.10.2013) 10-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_10_bolívares_2013.10.29_P90_T_59464890_f
Like P90, but new date (29 DE OCTUBRE DE 2013) and signatures. Prefix T.

Courtesy of José Daniel Fernandez.

Bangladesh new s/n variety (2014) 10-taka note (B349d2) confirmed

Bangladesh_BB_10_taka_2014.00.00_B349d2_P54_2054830_fBangladesh_BB_10_taka_2014.00.00_B349d2_P54_2054830_r
B349d2: Like B349d1, but new Western digits in lower left serial number. Curiously, based upon prefixes, it appears that on 10-taka notes the lower left serial number went from Bengali digits from 2012 to 2014, then Western, back to Bengali in 2015, and reverting to Western yet again in the same year.

Courtesy of Dr. Airin Salim (echo_2020).


Bangladesh new sig/date (2015) 2-taka note (B207d) confirmed

Bangladesh_GOB_2_taka_2015.00.00_B207d_P52_fBangladesh_GOB_2_taka_2015.00.00_B207d_P52_r
B207d: Like B207c, but new date (2015) and new signature (Mahbub Ahmed, who replaced Fazle Kabir on 06.07.2014).

Courtesy of Dr. Airin Salim (echo_2020).


Singapore new one-star symbol 50-dollar note (B205h) confirmed

Singapore_MAS_50_dollars_2015.08.00_B205h_P49_5AF_928235_fSingapore_MAS_50_dollars_2015.08.00_B205h_P49_5AF_928235_r
B205h: Like B205g, but with one star below ARTS on back. Prefix 5AF.

Courtesy of KK Lim.

Thailand new signature 100-baht note confirmed

Thailand_BOT_100_baht_2005.10.21_P114_9D_7868153_s85_fThailand_BOT_100_baht_2005.10.21_P114_9D_7868153_s85_r
Like P114, but new signatures. Prefix 9D.

Courtesy of Alexander Petrov.

Thailand new signature 20-baht note confirmed

Thailand_BOT_20_baht_2013.04.01_PNL_2B_0266808_fThailand_BOT_20_baht_2013.04.01_PNL_2B_0266808_r
Like PNL, but new signatures. Prefix 2B.

Courtesy of Alexander Petrov.

China new 100-yuan note reported for 12.11.2015 introduction

China_PBC_100_yuan_2015.00.00_PNL_AA00_000000_fChina_PBC_100_yuan_2015.00.00_PNL_AA00_000000_r
According to a press release dated 31 July 2015, the People’s Bank of China has unveiled a new 100-yuan notes which will be issued into circulation on 12 November 2015. The new note is like P907, but new date, and enhanced anti-counterfeiting features, including purple-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 100, denomination as registration device, denomination as SPARK, additional Omron rings, vertical serial number in blue at right front.

Pakistan new signature 100-rupee note (B235l) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_100_rupees_2014.00.00_B235l_P57_JY_6677048_f
Pakistan_SBP_100_rupees_2014.00.00_B235l_P57_JY_6677048_r
Like B235k, but new signature (Ashraf Vathra). Prefix JY.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Venezuela new date (19.08.2014) 20-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_20_bolívares_2014.08.19_P91_V_88792832_f
Like P91, but new date (19 DE AGOSTO DE 2014). Prefix V.

Courtesy of José Daniel Fernández.

Northern Ireland chapter of The Banknote Book is now complete


The Northern Ireland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 70-page catalog covers notes issued by the Bank of Ireland, Belfast Banking Company, National Bank Limited, Northern Bank Limited, Danske Bank, Provincial Bank of Ireland, Allied Irish Banks, First Trust Bank, and Ulster Bank. Revised 6 August 2015.

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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Ethiopia new date (2015) 10-birr note (B332d) confirmed

Ethiopia_NBE_10_birr_2015.00.00_B332d_P48_BF_9702366_fEthiopia_NBE_10_birr_2015.00.00_B332d_P48_BF_9702366_r
B332d
Like B332c, but new date (2015). Prefix BF.

Courtesy of Murtaza Karimjee (www.africanbanknotes.blogspot.com).

Lebanon new 50,000-pound polymer commemorative note (B540) confirmed

According to a press release dated 22 July 2015, on 1 August (Army Day) the Banque du Liban will introduce a new 50,000-livre polymer note commemorating 70 years of the Lebanese army.

Lebanon_BDL_50000_livres_2015.08.01_B540a_PNL_D-00_0002000_fLebanon_BDL_50000_livres_2015.08.01_B540a_PNL_D-00_0002000_r
B540 (PNL): 50,000 livres (US$33)
Blue, green, brown, and red. Front: Two soldiers in silhouette; coat of arms; soldier carrying Lebanese flag. Back (vertical): Monument to martyrs in Yarze (headquarters of the Lebanese Ministry of Defense); soldier saluting in silhouette; stalk of wheat. Simulated security thread with demetalized BDL. Watermark: None. Printer: (TDLR). 140 x 77 mm. Polymer.
a. 2015. Signature 12. Intro: 01.08.2015.

Courtesy of Claude Akl (www.dekeneh.com).

Egypt new 200-pound note (B337) with enhanced security confirmed

Egypt_CBE_200_pounds_2014.04.07_B337a_PNL_97_9261132_fEgypt_CBE_200_pounds_2014.04.07_B337a_PNL_97_9261132_r
B337 (PNL): 200 pounds (US$29)
Purple, green, and brown. Front: SPARK patch; denomination as registration device; Qani Bay mosque in Cairo. Back: Statue of the Seated Scribe; cartouche with “Egypt is Peace” in hieroglyphics. Motion windowed security thread. 1.5-mm wide solid security thread with demetalized 200 POUNDS in Arabic. Watermark: Egyptian Scribe and electrotype 200. Printer: (CBE). 165 x 73 mm.
a. 07.04.2014. Signature 12. Intro: July 2015.
Like B335, but with SPARK patch and Motion security thread.

Courtesy of Ashraf Nasr.

Egypt new 100-pound note (B336) with enhanced security confirmed

Egypt_CBE_100_pounds_2014.04.07_B336a_PNL_235_0222239_fEgypt_CBE_100_pounds_2014.04.07_B336a_PNL_235_0222239_r
B336 (PNL): 100 pounds (US$14)
Green, orange, purple, and brown. Front: Eye of Horus as registration device; SPARK patch; Sultan Hassan mosque in Cairo. Back: Great Sphinx of Giza; hieroglyphics of Kemet (black soil), ancient name of Egypt; Eye of Horus. Motion windowed security thread. 3-mm wide windowed thread at left center, with demetalized 100 and ONE HUNDRED POUNDS in Arabic. Watermark: Sphinx and electrotype 100. Printer: (CBE). 165 x 70 mm.
a. 14.04.2015. Signature 12. Intro: July 2015.
Like B333, but with SPARK patch and Motion security thread.

Courtesy of Ashraf Nasr.

Azerbaijan new variety or error notes reported without guilloches

Azerbaijan_AMB_100_manat_1993.00.00_B308a_P18a_A-1_04584505_r
Azerbaijan_AMB_100_manat_1993.00.00_B308b_P18b_BA_3099899_r
A frequent contributor to this site has reported a possible error or new variety of Azerbaijan B308, the 100-manat note from 1993. Specifically, the silver guilloche which nomrally appears at upper right on back (bottom) is missing (top). The note with the missing guilloche has serial number A/1 04584505.

Other contributors have sent scans of other 100-manat notes without the guilloche, but there doesn't seem to be any particular serail number range with or withou the guilloche.

Furthermore, I've now seen images of 250-manat note (B303a) without guilloche, as well as 50-manat note (B307a) without guilloche.

However, all of the "without guilloche" images I've examined are of well worn notes, leading me to wonder if perhaps the guilloche design was printed with ink that wore off or washed off. Do these "without guilloche" varieties exist in uncirculated form?

If you have any of these notes without the guilloche in like new condition, please let me know.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn and Alex Tarasoff.

Paraguay new 100,000-guaraní note (B864a) confirmed

Paraguay_BCP_100000_guaranies_2015.00.00_B864a_PNL_H_16759000_f
Paraguay_BCP_100000_guaranies_2015.00.00_B864a_PNL_H_16759000_r
B864 (PNL): 100,000 guaraníes (US$22)
Green, blue, and yellow. Front: Semicircle symbol for blind; round coat of arms with star; lion and cap registration device; round emblem with lion and cap; San Roque González de Santa Cruz. Back: Represa de Itaipu (Itaipu hydroelectric dam) on the Parana River. Motion windowed security thread. Watermark: San Roque Gonzalez de Santa Cruz and electrotype 100 MIL. Printer: (TDLR). 157 x 67 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 22. Prefix H.
Like B861, but new date, new signatures, denomination at upper left front no longer in OVI, and denomination at upper right back now in OVI.

Courtesy of Miguel Pratt.

Paraguay new 50,000-guaraní note (B863) confirmed

Paraguay_BCP_50000_guaranies_2015.00.00_B863a_PNL_H_00268300_f
Paraguay_BCP_50000_guaranies_2015.00.00_B863a_PNL_H_00268300_r
B863 (PNL): 50,000 guaraníes (US$11)
Purple, peach, and green. Front: Pentagon symbol for blind; map; guitar registration device; guitarist and composer Agustín Pío Barrios (also known as Mangoré) in tuxedo; round coat of arms with star; round emblem with lion and cap. Back: Guitar. Motion windowed security thread. Watermark: Agustín Pío Barrios and electrotype 50 MIL. Printer: (Oberthur Technologies). 157 x 67 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 22. Prefix H.
Like B859, but new date, new signatures, horizontal serial number at lower right in black (not green), denomination at upper left front no longer in OVI; and denomination at upper right back now in OVI.

Courtesy of Miguel Pratt.

Paraguay new 20,000-guaraní note (B862) confirmed

Paraguay_BCP_20000_guaranies_2015.00.00_B862a_PNL_F_02710066_f
Paraguay_BCP_20000_guaranies_2015.00.00_B862a_PNL_F_02710066_r
B862 (PNL): 20,000 guaraníes (US$4.50)
Blue and green. Front: Circle symbol for blind; BCP registration device; round coat of arms with star; round emblem with lion and cap La Mujer Paraguaya (Paraguayan woman) holding vase. Back: Modern Banco Central del Paraguay headquarters building in Asunción. Motion windowed security thread with star in circle pattern. Watermark: La Mujer Paraguaya and electrotype 20 MIL. Printer: (PWPW). 157 x 67 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 22. Prefix F.
Like B860, but new date, new signatures, vertical serial number at left in black (not red), and denomination at upper left front no longer in OVI.

Courtesy of Miguel Pratt.

Maldives new 5,000-rufiyaa commemorative polymer note (B222) confirmed

According to the Maldives Monetary Authority press release dated 26 July 2015, the MMA has introduced a 5,000-rufiyaa note (US$330) commemorating the 50th anniversary of independence. This is the first denomination in a new family of seven banknotes printed on DLR’s Safeguard polymer substrate. The other circulating denominations—10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 rufiyaa—will follow from October 2015 onwards (the existing 5-rufiyaa note will be replaced by a coin).


Maldives_MMA_5000_rufiyaa_2015.07.26_B222a_PNL_MF_029012_f
Maldives_MMA_5000_rufiyaa_2015.07.26_B222a_PNL_MF_029012_r
B222 (PNL): 5,000 rufiyaa (US$330)
Light blue and gold. Front: Combination of people, trees, buildings, and boats symbolizing growth and development of the northern seashore of the capital city of Male’ over 50 years. Back: Large central 50 inside of which is depicted the signing ceremony in which Maldives officially gained independence on 26 July 1965; interwoven background signifying the uniqueness, craftsmanship, heritage, and Islamic customs retained by Maldivians. Printer: (TDLR). 165 x 80 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 2015/AH1436. Signature 4. Prefix MF. Intro: 26.07.2015.


Syria new 1,000-pound note (B631) confirmed

Syria_CBS_1000_syrian_pounds_2013.00.00_B631a_PNL_B-63_8144601_f
Syria_CBS_1000_syrian_pounds_2013.00.00_B631a_PNL_B-63_8144601_r
B631 (PNL): 1,000 Syrian pounds (US$6.60)
Green, purple, red, and yellow. Front: Ancient Roman amphitheater in Bosra. Back: Tile mosaic of grape harvest from ancient Romain ruins in As-Suwayda; olive branches. 4-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized SP1000 and Arabic text. Watermark: Electrotype 1000 and eagle coat of arms. Printer: (Goznak). 155 x 65 mm.
a. 2013. Sig. 17. Prefix B/G3. Intro: 30.07.2015.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online), Cleo Phas, Reha Yucememis, and Christof Zellweger.

Simplified numbering for The Banknote Book

The Banknote Book just got a lot better. In response to requests from collectors for a simplified number system, each country's type notes are now referenced with unique 3- or 4-digit numbers prefixed by the letter B (for example, Fiji B123). Already a must-have numismatic reference for its unparalleled content, this move will accelerate the adoption of The Banknote Book numbering throughout our hobby.

The printed edition just got a lot better, too. Anyone who buys, or has bought, a complete three-volume set direct from Spink is entitled to a free 6-month subscription (a US$59 value) to the online edition, giving you the best of both worlds: Printed books for quick reference; downloaded PDFs for all the latest.

Full details of the print+online bundle, number simplification, and spreadsheet with cross-references are available online.

The Banknote Book awarded IBNS 2014 Book of the Year Honorable Mention

Spink_catalogs
IBNS 2014 Book of the Year - Honorable Mention certificate
The International Bank Note Society has announced the winners of the 2014 Book of the Year awards, and has bestowed Honorable Mention upon The Banknote Book for "significant contribution to the advancement of numismatic knowledge."

I humbly thank the IBNS for this honor, which I share with my contributors, collaborators, and publishing partners at Spink Books.

Qatar new signatures 1- and 5-riyal notes confirmed

Qatar_QCB_1_riyal_2015.00.00_B215b_P28_542302_f
Qatar_QCB_1_riyal_2015.00.00_B215b_P28_542302_r
B215b
1 riyal, no date. Like B215a, but new signatures (Abdullah Saud Al-Thani and Ali Shareef Al Emadi). Intro: 2015.

Qatar_QCB_5_riyals_2015.00.00_B216b_P29_576641_f
Qatar_QCB_5_riyals_2015.00.00_B216b_P29_576641_r
B216b
5 riyals, no date. Like B216a, but new signatures (Abdullah Saud Al-Thani and Ali Shareef Al Emadi). Intro: 2015.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Pakistan new date (2015) 50-rupee note (B234k) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_50_rupees_2015.00.00_B234k_P47_FF_3905856_fPakistan_SBP_50_rupees_2015.00.00_B234k_P47_FF_3905856_r
Like B234j, but new date (2015). Prefix FD.

Courtesy of Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen.


United Arab Emirates new 500-dirham note (B242a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_500_dirhams_2015.00.00_B242a_PNL_061_333144_fUnited_Arab_Emirates_CBA_500_dirhams_2015.00.00_B242a_PNL_061_333144_r
B242a
500 dirhams, 2015 and ١٤٣٦ (AH1436). Like B232, but with tactile printing at left/right center front for the visually impaired.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

United Arab Emirates new 5-dirham note (B236a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_5_dirhams_2015.00.00_B236a_PNL_151_121324_f
United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_5_dirhams_2015.00.00_B236a_PNL_151_121324_r
B236a
5 dirhams, 2015 and ١٤٣٦ (AH1436). Like B226, but with tactile printing at left/right center front for the visually impaired.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Namibia new date (2015) 200-dollar note confirmed

Namibia_BON_200_dollars_2015.00.00_B213b_P15_N_98591999_f
Namibia_BON_200_dollars_2015.00.00_B213b_P15_N_98591999_r
B213b
200 dollars, 2015. Like B213a, but new date. Prefix N.

Courtesy of Heinrich Lindner.

Nigeria new date (2015) 500-naira note confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_500_naira_2015.00.00_B228q_P30_P-66_290462_f
Nigeria_CBN_500_naira_2015.00.00_B228q_P30_P-66_290462_r
B228o
500 naira, 2015. Like B228p, but new date (2015). Prefix P-66.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Pakistan new sig/date (2015) 100-rupee note (B235m) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_100_rupees_2015.00.00_B235m_P48_KM_3027387_f
Like B235l, but new signature and date (2015). Prefix KE.

Courtesy of Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen.

Guinea new 20,000-franc note (B338) confirmed

Guinea_BCRG_20000_francs_2015.00.00_B338a_PNL_AA_344077_f
Guinea_BCRG_20000_francs_2015.00.00_B338a_PNL_AA_344077_r
B338 (PNL): 20,000 francs (US$2.80)
Blue, green, orange, and purple. Front: Guinean woman wearing head scarf; two pigeons taking flight; coat of arms. Back: Map of Guinea; hydroelectric dam in Kaleta; electricity transmission towers. 3-mm red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized GNF 20000. Watermark: Guinean woman and electrotype 20000. Printer: (TDLR). 148 x 70 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 5. Intro: 11.05.2015.

Courtesy of Ruslan Vaschenko, Claudio Marana, Cedrian Lopez-Bosch, and Fernando Iglesias.

Bangladesh new date (2015) 10-taka notes confirmed

Bangladesh_B3B_10_taka_2015.00.00_B349e_P54_f
Bangladesh_B3B_10_taka_2015.00.00_B349f_P54_2058215_f
Bangladesh_B3B_10_taka_2015.00.00_B349f_P54_2058215_r
B349e/f
10 taka, 2015. Like B349d, but new date. Issued first with Bengali digits in both serial numbers (top), then with Western digits in lower left serial number (bottom).

Courtesy of Syeed Bin Salam (Tuhin).


Philippines new date (2014B) 20-peso note confirmed

20 pesos, 2014B. Like P206, but new date. Prefix P.

Courtesy of Константин Бохонок.

Nigeria new date (2015) 20-naira note confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_20_naira_2015.00.00_B232o_P34_CX_7323901_fNigeria_CBN_20_naira_2015.00.00_B232o_P34_CX_7323901_r
B232o
20 naira, 2015. Like B232n, but new date.

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

Israel new sig/date (2014) 200-new sheqel note confirmed

Israel_BOI_200_new_sheqalim_2014.00.00_B439e_P62_f
B439e
200 new sheqalim, 2014. Like B439d, but new date and new signature (Karnit Flug).

Courtesy of Raphael Dvir.

Israel new sig/date (2014) 100-new sheqel note confirmed

Israel_BOI_100_new_sheqalim_2014.00.00_B438d_P61c_f
B438d
100 new sheqalim, 2014. Like B438c, but new date and new signature (Karnit Flug).

Courtesy of Raphael Dvir.

Tonga new note family confirmed

On 29 June 2015, the National Reserve Bank of Tonga introduced an upgraded family of six banknotes all printed by De La Rue. The new notes feature the portrait of the new king, Tupou VI. The notes will be issued in the coming months to commemorate the king's coronation to be held 4 July 2015. Sets with matched serial numbers will be issued in a folder as a numismatic product.

Tonga_NRBT_2_paanga_2015.06.29_B219a_PNL_A_044401_f
Tonga_NRBT_2_paanga_2015.06.29_B219a_PNL_A_044401_r
B219 (PNL): 2 pa’anga (US$1)
Light red. Front: King Tupou VI; coat of arms. Back: Whale leaping out of water; medallion. 1.4-mm windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou VI, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.
a. No date. Signature 8. Prefix A. Intro: 29.06.2015.

Tonga_NRBT_5_paanga_2015.06.29_B220a_PNL_A_026398_f
Tonga_NRBT_5_paanga_2015.06.29_B220a_PNL_A_026398_r
B220 (PNL): 5 pa’anga (US$2.50)
Purple. Front: King Tupou VI; coat of arms. Back: Langi; medallion. 1.4-mm windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou VI, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.
a. No date. Signature 8. Prefix A. Intro: 29.06.2015.

Tonga_NRBT_10_paanga_2015.06.29_B221a_PNL_A_025436_f
Tonga_NRBT_10_paanga_2015.06.29_B221a_PNL_A_025436_r
B221 (PNL): 10 pa’anga (US$5.05)
Blue. Front: King Tupou VI; coat of arms. Back: Royal tomb; medallion. 2.0-mm red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou VI, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.
a. No date. Signature 8. Prefix A. Intro: 29.06.2015.

Tonga_NRBT_20_paanga_2015.06.29_B222a_PNL_A_025600_f
Tonga_NRBT_20_paanga_2015.06.29_B222a_PNL_A_025600_r
B222 (PNL): 20 pa’anga (US$10)
Brown. Front: King Tupou VI; coat of arms. Back: NRBT building; medallion. 2.0-mm red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized NRBT. Watermark: King Tupou VI, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.
a. No date. Signature 8. Prefix A. Intro: 29.06.2015.

Tonga_NRBT_50_paanga_2015.06.29_B223a_PNL_A_042558_f
Tonga_NRBT_50_paanga_2015.06.29_B223a_PNL_A_042558_r
B223 (PNL): 50 pa’anga (US$25)
Light green and yellow. Front: King Tupou VI; coat of arms. Back: Royal Palace building; medallion. Optiks security thread. Watermark: King Tupou VI, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.
a. No date. Signature 8. Prefix A. Intro: 29.06.2015.

Tonga_NRBT_100_paanga_2015.06.29_B224a_PNL_A_021871_f
Tonga_NRBT_100_paanga_2015.06.29_B224a_PNL_A_021871_r
B224 (PNL): 100 pa’anga (US$50)
Cherry red and white. Front: King Tupou VI; coat of arms. Back: Vava’u Harbor; medallion. Optiks security thread. Watermark: King Tupou VI, electrotype NRBT, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 150 x 70 mm.
a. No date. Signature 8. Prefix A. Intro: 29.06.2015.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Dominican Republic new 200-peso dominicano note confirmed

Dominican_Republic_BCRD_200_pesos_dominicanos_2014.00.00_PNL_AA_0276728_f
Dominican_Republic_BCRD_200_pesos_dominicanos_2014.00.00_PNL_AA_0276728_r
200 pesos dominicanos, 2014. On 2 October 2014, the Banco Central de la República Domincano issued a new family of notes dated 2014 with enhanced security features and redesigned images. According to a press release, the notes are printed by De La Rue.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.


Pakistan new date (2015) 20-rupee note (B233l) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_20_rupees_2015.00.00_B233l_P55_GU_0504703_f
Like B233k, but new date (2015).

Courtesy of Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen.

Zambia to add tactile marks to banknotes by Q4 2015

According to a press release dated 6 July 2015, by the last quarter of 2015 the Bank of Zambia plans to begin introducing notes like the existing family (B152 - B157), but with tactile marks for the visually impaired.

Zambia_BOZ_2_kwacha_2015.00.00_B159_PNL_AA-12_0000000_f
Zambia_BOZ_2_kwacha_2015.00.00_B159_PNL_AA-12_0000000_r

Zambia_BOZ_5_kwacha_2015.00.00_B160_PNL_BA-12_0000000_f
Zambia_BOZ_5_kwacha_2015.00.00_B160_PNL_BA-12_0000000_r

Zambia_BOZ_10_kwacha_2015.00.00_B161_PNL_CA-12_0000000_f
Zambia_BOZ_10_kwacha_2015.00.00_B161_PNL_CA-12_0000000_r

Zambia_BOZ_20_kwacha_2015.00.00_B162_PNL_DA-12_0000000_f
Zambia_BOZ_20_kwacha_2015.00.00_B162_PNL_DA-12_0000000_r

Zambia_BOZ_50_kwacha_2015.00.00_B163_PNL_BA-12_0000000_f
Zambia_BOZ_50_kwacha_2015.00.00_B163_PNL_BA-12_0000000_r

Zambia_BOZ_100_kwacha_2015.00.00_B164_PNL_FA-12_0000000_f
Zambia_BOZ_100_kwacha_2015.00.00_B164_PNL_FA-12_0000000_r


Guinea new 5,000-franc note to be introduced July 2015

Guinea_BCRG_5000_francs_2015.00.00_B337_PNL_AA_123456_f
According to an article on Guinee24 dated 11 July 2015, the Banque Centrale de la Republique de Guinée plans to introduce a new 5,000-franc banknote by the end of July 2015. The new note is based upon the existing design (B334), but is reduced in size and has enhanced security features.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas.


Saudi Arabia new notes and coins reportedly planned

2015-635723119730498135-49
According to a Saudi Press Agency posting, Dr. Fahd Bin Abdullah Almobarak, governor of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency, briefed King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on new banknote and coin designs. It is unclear when the new designs will be introduced into circulation.

Couresty of Raihan Ahmed.

Canada new signature 50-dollar note confirmed

Canada_BOC_50_dollars_2012.00.00_B74b_PNL_GHM_9170430_fCanada_BOC_50_dollars_2012.00.00_B74b_PNL_GHM_9170430_r
50 dollars, 2012. Like B347a, but new signatures (Carolyn A. Wilkins and Stephen S. Poloz). Prefix GHD - GHM.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Pakistan new date (2015) 10-rupee note (B231m) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_10_rupees_2015.00.00_B31m_P54_AEN_6609786_f
Like B231l, but new date. Prefix AEN.

Courtesy of Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen.

Bangladesh new date (2014) 100-taka note (B352d) confirmed

Bangladesh_BB_100_taka_2014.00.00_B352d_P57_0951366_f
Bangladesh_BB_100_taka_2014.00.00_B352d_P57_0951366_r
B352d:. Like BB B352, but new date.

Courtesy of Syeed Bin Salam (Tuhin).


Bangladesh new date (2015) 5-taka note (B348.5b) confirmed

Bangladesh_BB_5_taka_2015.00.00_B48.5b_PNL_fBangladesh_BB_5_taka_2015.00.00_B48.5b_PNL_r
B348.5b: Like BB B348.5a, but new date.

Courtesy of Syeed Bin Salam (Tuhin).


Zambia to issue notes with tactile marks for sight-impaired by end of 2015

According to a Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation article dated 6 July 2015, by the end of 2015 the Bank of Zambia will introduce notes with tactile marks (not Braille) so that they will be readable by the visually impaired.

United Arab Emirates new 5- and 500-dirham notes to be introduced 08.07.2015

According to an article on GulfNews.com dated 7 July 2015, on 8 July the Central Bank of the UAE will introduce 5- and 500-dirham notes with tactile marks (not Braille) so that they will be readable by the visually impaired, just like the 50- and 100-dirham notes introduced on 9 March.

How do you change a currency – fast?

"How do you change a currency – fast?" by Isabelle Fraser was posted on The Telegraph on 30 June 2015. It's an excellent article drawing on De La Rue's experience replacing Iraq's currency and provides other great historical examples of how to handle the possible departure of Greece from the European Monetary Union.

Courtesy of James Cadman.

Sweden new date (2014) 100-kronor note confirmed

Sweden_SR_100_kronor_2014.00.00_P65_4750704935_fSweden_SR_100_kronor_2014.00.00_P65_4750704935_r
100 kronor, (201)4. Like P65, but new date.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Ukraine new signature 50-hryvnia note (B850f) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_50_hryven_2014.00.00_B50f_P121_УГ_0858891_fUkraine_NBU_50_hryven_2014.00.00_B50f_P121_УГ_0858891_r
B850f: 50 гривень (hryven), 2014. Like B850e, but new signature (Valeriia O. Gontareva). Prefix УГ, УЄ.

Courtesy of Yuriy Akhtemenko and Константин Бохонок.

Ukraine new sig/date (2015) 5-hryvnia note (B846e) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_5_hryven_2015.00.00_B46e_P118_УK_8581639_fUkraine_NBU_5_hryven_2015.00.00_B46e_P118_УK_8581639_r
B846e: 5 гривень (hryven), 2015. Like B846d, but new date and new signature (Valeriia O. Gontareva). Prefix УK.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Yuriy Akhtemenko.

South Africa new signature 20-rand note confirmed

South_Africa_SARB_20_rand_2013.11.06_B68b_PNL_GQ_1277935_B_fSouth_Africa_SARB_20_rand_2013.11.06_B68b_PNL_GQ_1277935_B_r
20 rand, no date. Like unlisted note issued 2013, but new signature (E. Lesetja Kganyago). Prefix GQ.

Courtesy of Ruan de Witt.

Tonga new note family introduced 29.06.2015

Tonga_NRBT_2_paanga_2015.06.29_BNP_PNL_folder_1
Tonga_NRBT_2_paanga_2015.06.29_BNP_PNL_folder_2
Tonga_NRBT_2_paanga_2015.06.29_BNL_PNL_James_Pickering
James Pickering of e-worldbanknotes.com standing beside new Tongan notes and coins.

On 29 June 2015, the National Reserve Bank of Tonga introduced an upgraded family of six banknotes all printed by De La Rue. The new notes feature the portrait of the new king, Tupou VI. The notes will be issued in the coming months to commemorate the king's coronation to be held 4 July 2015. Sets with matched serial numbers will be issued in a folder as a numismatic product.

Courtesy of James Pickering (e-worldbanknotes.com) and Cleo Phas.

India new date (2015) 1,000-rupee note confirmed

India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_P107_8BU_018412_R_f
India_RBI_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_P107_8BU_018412_R_r
1,000 rupees, 2015. Like P107, but new date. Inset letter R.

Kazakhstan new signature 2,000-tenge note (B141b) confirmed

Kazakhstan_NBK_2000_tenge_2012.00.00_B41b_P41_БB_8314144_f
Kazakhstan_NBK_2000_tenge_2012.00.00_B41b_P41_БB_8314144_r
Like B141a, but new signature. Prefix БB.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

West African States (Burkina Faso) new date (2014) 10,000-franc note confirmed

West_African_States_BC_10000_francs_2014.00.00_B24Cn_P318C_14151445207_f
West_African_States_BC_10000_francs_2014.00.00_B24Cn_P318C_14151445207_r
10,000 francs, (20)14. Like P318C, but new date. Country code C (Burkina Faso/Upper Volta).

Courtesy of Kevin Warfel.

Philippines new date (2015) 100- and 1,000-peso notes confirmed

Philippines_BSP_100_pesos_2015.00.00_P208_CZ_888888_f
100 pesos, 2015. Like P208, but new date. Prefix CZ.

Philippines_BSP_1000_pesos_2015.00.00_P211_YC_888888_f
1,000 pesos, 2015. Like P210, but new date. Prefix YC.

Courtesy of Sing Chia Tan.

Central African States (Central African Republic) new signature 500-franc note confirmed

Central_African_States_BEAC_500_francs_2002.00.00_B6Mb_P306M_M_450947858_fCentral_African_States_BEAC_500_francs_2002.00.00_B6Mb_P306M_M_450947858_r
500 francs, 2002. Like BEAC B6Ma, but new signature. Country code M (Central African Republic).

Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.

Recommended reading: The secret codes of British banknotes

Omron rings
The BBC has a very interesting article dated 25 June 2015 by Chris Baraniuk entitled "The secret codes of British banknotes," which discusses the so-called EURion Constellation (aka Omron rings) patterns' role in deterring digital counterfeiting.

Unmentioned in this article is that the simplest way to defeat this anti-counterfeiting feature is to use older scanners and photo editing software which do not interfere with the manipulation of banknote imagery. For example, Adobe Photoshop 3 will detect if you attempt to open a banknote image, but it will allow you to open, edit, and save same, but you can't print. With Photoshop 4, you're blocked from even viewing any image determined by the software to be a banknote.

Courtesy of Anthony Rodov and Christof Zellweger.

India new 100-rupee note with novel serial numbers confirmed

India_RBI_100_rupees_2015.00.00_P105_0AB_999988_R_fIndia_RBI_100_rupees_2015.00.00_P105_0AB_999988_R_r
According to a press release dated 25 June 2015, the Reserve Bank of India has introduced a 100-rupee note like P105, but with novel serial numbering wherein the size of each digit increases from left to right. "The new numbering pattern will be introduced in a phased manner in all other denominations," though no dates have been announced for the introduction of the other notes.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Poland unveils new 200-zlotych note for introduction in February 2016

Poland_NBP_200_zlotych_2015.03.30_B63as_PNLs_AA_1234567_f
Poland_NBP_200_zlotych_2015.03.30_B63as_PNLs_AA_1234567_r

On 23 June 2015, Narodowy Bank Polski unveiled a new 200-zloty note with upgraded security features and slight redesigns of the current note. The new note is scheduled for introduction in February 2016.

Courtesy of Jan Bogus and many others.

Poland announces new 500-zlotych note for introduction in 2018

During a press conference on 23 June 2015, Marek Belka, president of the National Bank of Poland, announced that in 2018 the bank intends to introduce a 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 will be 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.

Courtesy of Jan Bogus and many others.

Excellence in Holography Awards 2015 now open to nominations

IHMA_logo_black_MAC copy
The International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA), are inviting applications and nominations for the Excellence in Holography Awards 2015, ahead of the annual Holography Conference in held on 2-4 December 2015 in Shanghai, China.

The IHMA represents many of the leading hologram and holography technology developers and manufacturers from across the world. The 2015 awards, sponsored by Laczynski and Angus Creative Consultancy, are to showcase the leading developers in holography technology worldwide and recognise innovation in this ever changing field.

The award categories include innovations for the best in Holographic Technology, Origination, Holographic Optical Element Applications and Applied Security, Decorative and Packing Products.

General Secretary Designate of the IHMA, Dr Mark Deakes, said ‘For many years holography has played a key role in decorative and brand protection security for anti-counterfeiting applications. As counterfeiters are increasingly trying to profit from illegally duplicating not only consumer goods but also commercial and industrial products, holography is increasingly being used to promote authenticity within many global industries which rely on the high quality spare and replacement parts within their supply chains. Our awards seek to recognise and reward those companies who continue to showcase the best examples of holography in all these areas of application.’

The award categories cover the full end-to-end spectrum of holograph techniques in origination, production and finishing. The awards will showcase the best examples of design, artwork and techniques used in holograph origination to the application of holographic optical elements, for example in display screens, lighting, communications and vehicular systems. The awards will also showcase exceptional real-world uses of security and authentication holograms by a customer.

Any number of applications or nominations can be submitted - either directly from a company or on behalf of another company or project. People or organisations involved in a hologram project may apply for an Award; others may nominate holographic projects for an Award as long as details can be given of the user or producer of the hologram.

The closing date for receipt of applications or nominations is August 17, 2015. No applications will be accepted after this date. Only holograms first produced commercially or holographic processes or techniques introduced after August 1, 2014, are eligible for the 2015 Awards.

The Awards will be announced and presented at the Awards Dinner on 3rd December during the 2015 Holography Conference™.

For an application form, please contact: Kim Del Pellegrino - info@ihma.org or visit www.theholographyconference.com

Papua New Guinea new 20-kina 40th anniversary commemorative note confirmed

Papua_New_Guinea_BPNG_20_kina_2015.00.00_B53a_PNL_BI_15256840_f
Papua_New_Guinea_BPNG_20_kina_2015.00.00_B53a_PNL_BI_15256840_r
According to a press release, the Bank of Papua New Guinea has issued a new 20-kina note to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the country with a special overprint of the 40th Anniversary of Papua New Guinea Independence and the National Bird of Paradise image above the Parliament House. They are physically smaller (135 x 70 mm) than the preceding issues, but otherwise the designs remain unchanged except for the addition of an Optical Variable Image (OVI) at upper right front that exhibits three transitional colors when the notes are tilted.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun.

Papua New Guinea new 10-kina Pacific Games commemorative note confirmed

Papua_New_Guinea_BPNG_10_kina_2015.00.00_B52a_PNL_BE_15250124_f
Papua_New_Guinea_BPNG_10_kina_2015.00.00_B52a_PNL_BE_15250124_r
According to a press release, these 10-kina notes were issued to commemorate the XV Pacific Games with a special overprint of the XV Pacific Games logo in yellow, red, green, black and blue in color located above the Parliament House. They are physically smaller (135 x 70 mm) than the preceding issues, but otherwise the designs remain unchanged except for the addition of an Optical Variable Image (OVI) at upper right front that exhibits three transitional colors when the notes are tilted.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun.

Pakistan demonetizes pre-2005 notes as of 31.12.2021

According to a State Bank of Pakistan press release dated 17 June 2015, "As per Federal Government’s Gazette Notification dated 4th June, 2015, the old design banknotes will cease to be legal tender with effect from 1st December 2016. Therefore, it has now been decided to phase out all remaining old design banknotes of Rs 10, 50, 100 & 1000. The Rs 5 banknote and the old design Rs 500 banknote have already been demonetized.

"It is worth mentioning that the State Bank of Pakistan issued a new design banknote series which started with the issuance of Rs 20 denomination banknote in 2005 (SBP B32a) to improve the security, durability and aesthetic quality of banknotes. The process of issuance of complete series of new design banknotes comprising eight denominations (Rs 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000) was completed in 2008 (B230-B239).

"The commercial/microfinance banks will accept the old design banknotes of Rs 10, 50, 100 and 1000 and exchange the same with the new design banknotes and coins of all denominations up to 30th November 2016 only. However, SBP BSC field offices will continue to accept the old design banknotes of Rs 10, 50, 100 & 1000 from general public up to December 31, 2021.

"The last day to exchange all old design banknotes from banks is November 30, 2016.All old design banknotes shall cease to be legal tender on December 01, 2016 while last day to exchange all such banknotes from SBP BSC field offices is December 31, 2021."

Courtesy of Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen.

Indonesia new date (2015) 2,000-rupiah note (B598g) confirmed

2,000 rupiah, 2015 / 2009. Like B598f, but new date.

Courtesy of Radoslaw Dlouhy.

United States' efforts to honor woman on 10-dollar note ridiculed

Screen Shot 2015-06-22 at 12.29.11 PM
On the 21 June 2015 episode of HBO's Last Week Tonight, comedian John Oliver performed a funny segment on the recent annoucement that the United States will include a portrait of a woman on a revised 10-dollar note. Enjoy.

CoinWorld also has an interesting article on the subject written by Joe O'Donnell on 19 June 2015.

South Africa new signature 100-rand note reported

South_Africa_SARB_100_rand_2015.06.19_B70b_PNL_f
Kganyago_s
According to a press release dated 19 June 2015, Lesetja Kganyago, the new governor of the South African Reserve Bank, returned to his home village of Moletjie Ga-Maribana in Limpopo to buy bread, cooking oil, maize meal, and sugar at Makgohloane General Trading shop with the first batch of banknotes bearing his signature.

All other banknotes currently in circulation remain legal tender and will co-circulate with the banknotes bearing Governor Kganyago’s signature.

Mr Kganyago assumed the governorship of the South African Reserve Bank on 9 November 2014, taking over from Gill Marcus.

Courtesy of Craig Eustace.


Northern Ireland's Ulster Bank new sig/date (01.01.2013) 5-pound note confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_5_pounds_2013.01.01_B36b_P340_E_8993658_fNorthern_Ireland_UBL_5_pounds_2013.01.01_B36b_P340_E_8993658_r
5 pounds, 1st JANUARY 2013. Like UBL B36, but new date and new signature (Jim Brown). Prefix E.

Courtesy of Mark Irwin.

Pakistan new date (2015) 500-rupee note (B237j) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_500_rupees_2015.00.00_B237j_P49Ag_DS_8883259_fPakistan_SBP_500_rupees_2015.00.00_B237j_P49Ag_DS_8883259_r
Like B237i, but new date (2015). Prefix DL.

Courtesy of Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen.

Zimbabwe dollar to be demonetized 30.09.2015

Zimbabwe_RBZ_100000000000000_dollars_2008.00.00_B82a_P91_AA_1437112_f
The 100-trillion-dollar note (RBZ B82a) shown above was the largest denomination ever issued by Zimbabwe in 2009; it's worth a mere US$0.40 in 2015, and will soon be worthless.

In January 2009, Zimbabwe suspended the use of the Zimbabwe dollar following the legalization of foreign currencies (most notably the United States dollar and South African rand) to combat the hyper-inflation that quickly devastated the value of all Zimbabwean dollar-denominated notes.

According to a press release dated 11 June 2015, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe intends to complete the demonetization of the Zimbabwe dollar pursuant to Sections 41 (2) and 44 (3) of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Act [Chapter 22:25].

Beginning 15 June 2015, bank account balances denominated in Zimbabwe dollars will be converted into US dollars at a rate of 35,000,000,000,000,000 (quadrillion) to 1, and Zimbabwe banknotes will be converted into US dollars at a rate of 250,000,000,000,000 (trillion) to 1. The Zimbabwe dollar will lose its legal tender status on 30 September 2015.



Indonesia new date (2015) 50,000-rupiah note confirmed

50,000 rupiah, 2015/2005. Like BI B106, but new date.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn (http://www.facebook.com/myriakorea).

Hong Kong new 150-dollar commemorative numismatic product confirmed

Hong_Kong_HKSB_150_dollars_2015.03.03_BTK_PNL_AA_66881_f
Hong_Kong_HKSB_150_dollars_2015.03.03_BTK_PNL_AA_66881_r
According to a post on its web site, HSBC announced a 150-dollar banknote to commemorate its 150th anniversary in Hong Kong. This numismatic product is available as a single note in a folder (HKD380), a 3-in-1 uncut set in folder (HKD1,380), and a 35-in-1 uncut set (HKD23,880). Sets may be ordered by anyone aged 18 or above with a valid Hong Kong Identity Card or passport (Hong Kong SAR or another country's) number, and a valid Hong Kong correspondence address and phone number. The deadline for applying to buy notes was 21 March 2015, and they were available for pick-up beginning 9 June 2015.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun, Terence Chan, Eric Lam, and Tristan Choa.

Switzerland new date (2010) 100-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_100_francs_2010.00.00_P72i_10_H_0945594_r
100 francs, (20)10. Like P72, but new date. Signatures Hansueli Raggenbass and Thomas Jordan.

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Tanzania new signature 5,000- and 10,000-shilling notes confirmed

Tanzania_BOT_5000_shillings_2015.00.00_B42b_P43_CL_1889114_f
Tanzania_BOT_5000_shillings_2015.00.00_B42b_P43_CL_1889114_r
5,000 shilling, no date. Like BOT B42a, but new signatures. Prefix CL.

Tanzania_BOT_10000_shillings_2015.00.00_B43b_P44_DF_5893401_f
Tanzania_BOT_10000_shillings_2015.00.00_B43b_P44_DF_5893401_r
10,000 shilling, no date. Like BOT B43a, but new signatures. Prefix DF.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

West African States (Senegal) new sig/date (2014) 5,000-franc note confirmed

West_African_States_BC_5000_francs_2014.00.00_B23Kn_P717K_14604376234_f
West_African_States_BC_5000_francs_2014.00.00_B23Kn_P717K_14604376234_r
5,000 francs, (20)14. Like P717K, but new date and new signatures. Suffix K (Senegal).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Ghana new date (01.07.2014) 2-cedi note (B152b) confirmed

Ghana_BOG_2_cedis_2014.07.01_B152b_P37Ac_BN_3932865_fGhana_BOG_2_cedis_2014.07.01_B152b_P37Ac_BN_3932865_r
Like B152a, but new date (1st JULY 2014). Prefix BG - BP.

Courtesy of Merjim Groen.

Burundi new note family confirmed

Burundi_BRB_500_francs_2015.01.15_B36a_PNL_AA_0698470_f
Burundi_BRB_500_francs_2015.01.15_B36a_PNL_AA_0698470_r

Burundi_BRB_2000_francs_2015.01.15_B38a_PNL_CA_0690383_f
Burundi_BRB_2000_francs_2015.01.15_B38a_PNL_CA_0690383_r

Burundi_BRB_5000_francs_2015.01.15_B39a_PNL_DA_1963000_f
Burundi_BRB_5000_francs_2015.01.15_B39a_PNL_DA_1963000_r

Burundi_BRB_10000_francs_2015.01.15_B40a_PNL_EA_2046081_f
Burundi_BRB_10000_francs_2015.01.15_B40a_PNL_EA_2046081_r

According to a press release on its web site, on 29 April 2015 the Bank of the Republic of Burundi introduced a new family of banknotes consisting of denominations of 500, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 francs. The new notes are phyiscally smaller than the preceding issues, with improved security, durability, and accessibility for the sight impaired. A 1,000-franc denomination is planned for the new family (no release date has been announced), but the 100-franc note will be replaced by a coin, and 10-, 20-, and 50-franc notes will lose their legal tender status in three months, as will all old notes.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online) and Claudio Marana.

West African States new date (2014) 500-franc note confirmed

West_African_States_BC_500_francs_2014.00.00_B20Ac_PNL_A_14263654226_f
West_African_States_BC_500_francs_2014.00.00_B20Ac_PNL_A_14263654226_r
500 francs, (20)14. Like PNL, but new date. Suffix A (Ivory Coast).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Chile new date (2013) 5,000-peso polymer note (B298d) confirmed

Chile_BCC_5000_pesos_2013.00.00_P163_BC_01683431_f
5,000 pesos, 2013. Like P163, but new date. Prefix BC.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause (www.polymernotes.de).

Jamaica new 100-dollar Hybrid note (B250a) confirmed

These notes are like the preceding regular issue notes on paper substrate, but now printed on Hybrid substrate, and the serial number at right appears in a wave pattern with the last three digits set against a dark background using LOOK (Laser Originated Optical Key), G&D’s security feature that creates laser-induced effects in the substrate, print color, foil, and varnish.

Jamaica_BOJ_100_dollars_2014.01.01_B50a_PNL_AZU_729140_fJamaica_BOJ_100_dollars_2014.01.01_B50a_PNL_AZU_729140_r
B250 (P95): 100 dollars (US$0.90)
Brown, green, purple, and orange. Front: Sir Donald Sangster; jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) flowers; map of Jamaica; coat of arms; ackee fruit. Back: Ackee fruit; 11 children from Central Branch Primary School in Kingston. Two security threads; one solid, one windowed with demetalized BOJ 100. Watermark: Donald Sangster, electrotype 100 and flower, and Cornerstones. Printer: Giesecke & Devrient. 145 x 68 mm. Polymer (Hybrid).
a. 01.01.2014. Signature 12. Prefix AZU - BAG.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

European Monetary Union new 5-euro with prefix Y (Greece)

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_5_euros_2013.00.00_B8y3_PNL_YA_0669436217_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_5_euros_2013.00.00_B8y3_PNL_YA_0669436217_r
5 euros, 2013. Like ECB B8, but prefix Y (Greece).

Courtesy of Takis Kouvatseas.

Chile new date (2013) 1,000-peso polymer note (B296d) confirmed

Chile_BCC_1000_pesos_2013.00.00_P161_BH_02052825_f
1,000 pesos, 2013. Like P161, but new date. Prefix BH.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Romania new date (2014) 200-leu note (B284f) confirmed

Like B284e, but new date (2014).

Courtesy of Thomas Krause (www.polymernotes.de).

Uganda new date (2013) 20,000-shilling note confirmed

Uganda_BOU_20000_shillings_2013.00.00_B58b_P53_AU_5959901_f
20,000 shillings, 2013. Like BOU B58, but new date.

Courtesy of Richard Miranda.

Macedonia new sig/date (00.12.2013) 100-denar note (B208k) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_100_denari_2013.12.00_B208k_P16a_ФЉ_316724_fMacedonia_NBRM_100_denari_2013.12.00_B208k_P16a_ФЉ_316724_r
Like B208j, but new date (Декември 2013) and new signature (Dimitar Bogov).

Courtesy of Martim Grupcev.

Ghana new date (01.07.2014) 1-cedi note (B145f) confirmed

Ghana_BOG_1_cedi_2014.07.01_B145f_P37_FU_3218952_fGhana_BOG_1_cedi_2014.07.01_B145f_P37_FU_3218952_r
Like B145e, but new date (1st JULY 2014). Prefix FU - GF.

Courtesy of Marco Fragel and Sejin Ahn.

Scotland's Bank of Scotland new 5- and 10-pound notes to be polymer issues

According to an article on Daily Business dated 1 June 2015, the Bank of Scotland plans to issue new 5- and 10-pound notes on polymer.

In November 2015, fifty 5-pound notes bearing winning designs from a children's competition will be auctioned to benefit the BBC Children in Need charity.

The new circulating 5-pound note won't be introduced until the second half of 2015 and its design will be a modified version of the existing note (P124), which was originally issued in 2007. The new note is printed by De La Rue is said to be 125 x 65 mm, slightly smaller than the current 135 x 70 mm.

A new polymer 10-pound note is to be introduced in 2017.

Courtesy of Alex Alotin.

Myanmar enhanced security 10,000-kyat note reported for 01.07.2015

Myanmar_CBM_10000_kyats_2015.07.01_B18as_P82s_AA_0000000_f
Myanmar_CBM_10000_kyats_2015.07.01_B18as_P82s_AA_0000000_r
According to several news articles, on 1 July 2015 the Central Bank of Myanmar will introduce a revised 10,000-kyat note which is like CBM B16, but with the denomination at lower right front expressed in Burmese numerals printed with SPARK, a new watermark, and a protective layer of vanish on both sides to extend the circulation life of the note.

Cyprus chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Cyprus chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 21-page catalog covers notes issued by the Government of Cyprus from 1914 to 1960, the Republic of Cyprus in 1961, and the Central Bank of Cyprus from 1964 to present. Revised 29 May 2015.

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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Isle of Man Paper Money

Isle of Man Paper Money cover
Isle of Man Paper Money
Pam West and Alan Kelly, 420 pages, soft cover, 147 x 210 mm, color illustrations, English, ISBN 9780954345747, €24 (plus shipping), Pam West, British Notes, PO Box 257, Sutton, Surrey SM3 9WW. Tel: 0208 641 3224, www.britishnotes.co.uk, pam@britishnotes.co.uk

Reviewed by Jonathan Callaway (full disclosure: a contributor to this catalog)

You do not have to be a collector of Isle of Man notes to recognise the contribution this book makes to our understanding of the notes issued on this small island in the Irish Sea, part of the British Isles geographically but not part of the United Kingdom politically.

Pam West and Alan Kelly have reviewed and catalogued every example of paper money ever issued on the Isle of Man. There have been earlier catalogues but none is as comprehensive in its coverage and this is the first one to provide a complete pricing guide.

The book opens with an extensive introduction chapter contributed by Jonathan Callaway covering not only the historical background but also a brief outline of the currency history of the Island. The first section of the catalogue proper covers the many early 19th century card money issues which were abolished in 1817. Many new discoveries have been listed and many new images of these rare pieces are included. The authors have trawled not only institutional collections on the Island and elsewhere but also gained access to the leading private collections.

The next section deals with the first banknotes proper on the Island, starting in 1788 and covering the early issues ahead of an Act of the Tynwald (i.e. the Isle of Man’s own parliament) in 1817 which set out the Isle of Man’s first regulations for banknote issuance. The ensuing chapter covers firstly the various private banks licensed to issue notes under the 1817 Act. Once again many previously unknown notes have been found and illustrated. The chapter then goes on to cover the Isle of Man’s first joint stock banks. These better capitalised banks did eventually drive the private banks out of business but not without a few casualties of their own. There are potted histories of each one including the ill-fated Bank of Mona which abruptly ceased trading when its Scottish parent collapsed catastrophically in 1878. Each bank’s note issues are carefully set out with every signature variety described and illustrated. Proofs and essays are also listed and where possible illustrated.

The complex history of Dumbell’s Bank comes next, again with illustrations of a number of very rare notes and a fully detailed listing of the bank’s issues. This bank failed in 1900 and creditors got just 12s 7½d (63p) in the pound although the note holders were paid out in full – hence fully issued notes are rare today.

The final note issuing bank to be established on the Isle of Man was the Isle of Man Joint Stock Banking Company Limited, in November 1865. The bank’s issues are covered with the same degree of detail as previous issuers but there is more – when Waterlow & Sons Ltd took over the printing contract in 1927 they used the positional plate letters seen on all the notes they produced. Here the book sets out the plate letter sequences in remarkably full detail. A total of 530,000 £1 notes were printed by Waterlows with one master plate for each side of the note, each with four impressions on it. Each impression was given its own plate letter and the book lists in full the complex pattern of plate letters, prefixes and dates. The original master plates were re-engraved in 1952 and each of the four impressions given a new plate letter. On top of this there were frequent signature changes and again these are set out in complete detail. For specialist collectors this is as good as it gets! Waterlow also printed 7,200 £5 notes for the bank between 1927 and 1960. Such a tiny print run required just one plate for each side but there are still five date and signature varieties to collect despite the fact that 2,600 of these notes were never issued.

In 1896 saw the first of the English banks arrive to offer the local banks serious competition. Four English banks eventually issued their own notes. These issues are popular with many collectors due to the fact that they are the only banknotes any of these banks ever issued; they were unable to issue notes in England itself due to a different legislative environment and the dominance of the Bank of England. Once again the book does not let collectors down and provides every level of detail on type, variety and signature changes through to 1961 when the Tynwald withdrew the right for commercial banks to issue their own notes.

The book next devotes a long chapter to the Internment Camp issues from both World Wars. As a small island located midway between Britain and Ireland, the Isle of Man was deemed to be an ideal location to intern ‘enemy aliens’ during both global conflicts. These were civilians originally from the countries the United Kingdom found itself at war with. Many of the camps issued their own ‘currency’ in the form of vouchers and canteen tickets. The many issues are covered here in unparalleled detail with many issues recorded and illustrated for the first time. A wealth of new information is offered and much fascinating background is provided on the camps themselves.

The final third of the book focuses on the issues of the Isle of Man Government – a much loved and widely collected series which has been running for over 50 years and still going strong. All these beautiful notes carry a portrait of H.M. Queen Elizabeth II and the many varieties and signature changes are naturally covered in the full detail we have come to expect. Nearly every known proof, specimen and colour trial is illustrated and once again a lot of new information has been unearthed for collectors to enjoy.

‘Isle of Man Paper Money’ covers well over 200 years of paper money history in its 412 pages. It achieves a level of detail few catalogues can aspire to and will stand for many years as the definitive guide to the Isle of Man’s paper currency issues. The book is beautifully produced and all illustrations are in full colour. This reviewer cannot recommend this book enough. It would grace the shelf of any paper money enthusiast and surely whet the appetite of anyone who has yet to start collecting these fascinating and lovely notes.

North Korea new 5,000-won commemorative notes confirmed

North_Korea_DPRK_5000_won_2013.00.00_B58a_PNL_0031333_f
5,000 won, 2013. Like B357, but with overprint commemorating the 100th birthday of Kim Il Sung.

North_Korea_DPRK_5000_won_2013.00.00_B59as_PNLs_0000000_f
5,000 won, 2013. Like B357, but with overprint commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Workers' Party.

Anyone interested in buying one of these notes can contact the contributor by clicking the link below.

Courtesy of Teng Zhiming.

India new 1-rupee note dated 2015 confirmed

India_GOI_1_rupee_2015.00.00_PNL_00A_015821_L_f
India_GOI_1_rupee_1985.00.00_P78Ab_19M_277919_r
1 rupee, 2015. Like P78A, but new colors, new date, and new signature. Inset letter L.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.


Central African States new signature 500-franc note confirmed

Central_African_States_BEAC_500_francs_2002.00.00_B6Cc_P606C_C_589447119_r
500 francs, 2002. Like BEAC B6Cb, but new signature 11.

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

East Germany buried, then burned its old banknotes

GoingUp1
Check out this great article from The New Indian Press dated 23 May 2015, which explains how and why East Germany buried and then burned many tons of banknotes when reunifying with West Germany.

Papua New Guinea new 10- and 20-kina polymer commemorative notes reported issued 21.05.2015

Papua_New_Guinea_BPNG_10_kina_2015.00.00_B52a_PNL_AA_15_000001_f
Papua_New_Guinea_BPNG_20_kina_2015.00.00_B53a_PNL_AA_15000001_f
According to a press release dated 21 May 2015, the Bank of Papua New Guinea will issue new 10- and 20-kina commemorative banknotes, both resized as part of the reform process undertaken by the bank to standardize the size of Papua New Guinea banknotes. The 10-kina banknote incorporates a special overprint of the XV Pacific Games logo in yellow, red, green, black and blue in color located above the Parliament House, whereas the 20-kina note incorporates a special overprint of the 40th Anniversary of Papua New Guinea Independence and the National Bird of Paradise image above the Parliament House. A 50-toea coin will also be issued 21 May 2015 to commemorate the Pacific Games.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin and
Thomas Krause (www.polymernotes.de).

Botswana new date (2014) 50-pula note (B126c) confirmed

Like B126b, but new date (2014).

Couresty of Craig Eustace.

Bank of England launches public nominations for new 20-pound note

According to a press release dated 19 May 2015, "the Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, announced that the next £20 note will celebrate Britain’s achievements in the visual arts and he launched a public nomination period to seek people’s views as to who should be recognised on the next £20 note.

Members of the public will have two months to nominate people of historic significance from the visual arts including artists, sculptors, printmakers, designers, craftspeople, ceramicists, architects, fashion designers, photographers and filmmakers – whose work shaped British thought, innovation, leadership, values and society. The public can nominate characters from within the field of visual arts on the Bank’s website."

Courtesy of James Cadman.

Trinidad and Tobago new 10-dollar note confirmed

Trinidad_Tobago_CBTT_10_dollars_2006.00.00_B31a_PNL_DB_247651_f
10 dollars, 2006. Like B223, but new signature (Jwala Rambarran, who took over as governor from Ewart S. Williams on 13.07.2012) and raised horizontal bars at upper left and right front to assist the visually impaired distinguish between denominations.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (
www.banknoten.de).

United States 2-dollar note to star in documentary mid-2015


Check out this great web site dedicated to everyone who loves or is curious about the United States 2-dollar note.

Courtesy of Webb Linzmayer.

Hungary new sig/date (2015) 1,000-forint note (B582e) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_1000_forint_2015.00.00_B582e_P197_DB_1450406_fHungary_MNB_1000_forint_2015.00.00_B582e_P197_DB_1450406_r
Like B582d, but new date (2015) and signatures (György Matolcsy and Ádám Balog).

Courtesy of Róbert Szajkó.

Canada new 20-dollar QEII polymer commemorative to be introduced in 2015

According to a press release, "On 9 September 2015, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will become the longest-reigning sovereign in Canadian history, exceeding the reign of her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria.

To mark this historic reign, the Bank of Canada will issue a special commemorative bank note in 2015. The note will be a variation of the existing $20 polymer bank note (BOC B73) that already features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The variation will incorporate a special mention of Her Majesty’s reign.

This commemorative note will be publicly unveiled and issued this fall. It will have the same level of security as all other notes in the Polymer series. More information will be available at that time."

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Kuwait wins IACA Award for Best Banknote Issue 2015

IACA_Kuwait_award
According to an article on the Kuwait News Agency site dated 18 May 2015, the International Association of Currency Affairs (IACA) awarded the Central Bank of Kuwait the 2015 International Award for Best Banknote issue for its sixth series of notes (CBK B29-B34) issued 29 June 2014.

"This is considered a most prestigious award within the banknote industry and is based on votes cast by central banks and international companies specialised in the production of banknotes in a competition between currencies issued by eighteen countries around the world.
In making the award the sponsors indicated that the sixth banknote issue deserved to win due to the visual artistry and high levels of technical and security sophistication of the notes, coupled with the considerable emphasis placed on reflecting the country’s heritage as well as its modern style. The six denominations of the new currency banknotes all feature the landmarks of the State of Kuwait and its political and economic milestones. Notes have a vibrant design, each capturing a different aspect of Kuwait culture - such as sea and land life, democracy and Islamic history. Additionally, consideration has been given to the needs of the visually impaired through the use of raised print which help distinguish each banknote’s value.
On this occasion, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Y. Al-Hashel, Governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait, expressed his pleasure and pride in achieving this very significant award, and further stated that the Sixth Issue had also been awarded Regional Banknote of the Year 2014 (Asia) at the High Security Printing Conference in Manila, the Philippines.
His Excellency, The Governor indicated that such awards represent recognition by specialised organisations of achievement in design, the incorporation of latest security features and relevance of symbolism with regard to the State of Kuwait, its accomplishments and economic milestones throughout history.
In acknowledging the international awards given to the Sixth Issue of KWD banknotes, His Excellency, The Governor dedicated such achievements to His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may Allah bestow them good health and wellbeing, in recognition of their enduring support to the Central Bank of Kuwait and their benevolent guidance of our beloved Kuwait and the welfare of its kind people."

Bolivia new signature 10-boliviano note confirmed

Bolivia_BCB_10_bolivianos_1986.11.28_B113e_PNL_010343073_J_f
10 bolivianos, 28 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 1986. Like P233, but new signature, new printer imprint (OBERTHUR technologies), and suffix J.

Courtesy of Daniel Gonzalez.

Philipinnes senator assails similar colors of 100- and 1,000-peso notes

Philippines_BSP_100_pesos_2014.00.00_P208_*_2399211_f
Philippines_BSP_100_pesos_2014.00.00_P208_*_2399211_r

Philippines_BSP_1000_pesos_2010.00.00_P211_A_003795_f
Philippines_BSP_1000_pesos_2010.00.00_P211_A_003795_r
According to an article on Rappler dated 14 May 2015, Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III has asked the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to explain why the 100- and 1,000-peso banknotes are almost identical to each other and state if there are plans to improve the situation. BSP Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo admitted the notes have similar colors, but said, “If we really use our eyes and read the inscription, and not just look at the color, it's easy to detect the difference between the P1,000 bill and the P100 bill."

Guinigundo said there are no plans to alter the design which were approved by the BSP Monetary Board and the president of the Philippines. However, Guinigundo said that BSP is trying to adjust the color of the bills “to make sure that blue is really blue and violet is more violet," hopefully improviing the contrast between the two.

Uganda new date (2013) 2,000-shilling note confirmed

2,000 shillings, 2013. Like BOU B55a, but new date. Prefix AY.

Courtesy of Clive Brind.

Maldives new note family to be issued beginning July 2015

According to a De La Rue press release dated 12 May 2015, the Maldives Monetary Authority will introduce a new family of seven banknotes printed on DLR’s Safeguard polymer substrate. The first denomination—a commemorative 5,000-rufiyaa note—will be launched at the end of July 2015. The other circulating denominations—10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 rufiyaa—will follow from October 2015 onwards (the existing 5-rufiyaa note will be replaced by a coin). The Maldives Monetary Authority held a design competition and selected local artist Abdullah Nashaath to ensure that the new family, called Randhihafaheh, has an authentically Maldivian look.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Trans-Dniester new 1- and 10-ruble commemorative notes confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2015.00.00_B15a_PNL_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2015.00.00_B15a_PNL_TT_0003001_r
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_2015.00.00_B16a_PNL_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_2015.00.00_B16a_PNL_TT_0003001_r
According to a Russian-language press release, on 28 April 2015, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced 1- and 10-ruble banknotes commemorating the 70th anniversary of victory in World War II. These commemorative notes are like the existing regular issues (TDRB B9 and B11), but have an overprint at lower right front with the Russian text 70 ЛЕТ ВЕЛИКОЙ ПОБЕДЫ (70 Years of Great Victory) above Saint George’s Ribbon, the most respected symbol of military valour in Russia, followed by 1945-2015 below. 7,070 pieces of each denomination were issued into circulation. 2,000 sets of the notes were sold in folders as numismatic products.

Courtesy of Тисленко Вадим (Vadim Tislenko), Ivan Bogdanov (bonistics.org), and Albert Vokhmin.


Trinidad and Tobago 50-dollar note named IBNS Banknote of 2014

Trinidad_Tobago_CBTT_50_dollars_2014.00.00_B34a_PNL_CB_700450_fTrinidad_Tobago_CBTT_50_dollars_2014.00.00_B34a_PNL_CB_700450_r
The International Bank Note Society (IBNS) announces that its voting membership has for the first time ever selected the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago to receive it prestigious “Bank Note of the Year Award” for 2014. With over 130 new banknotes released worldwide in 2014, nearly 3 dozen were of sufficiently new design to be eligible for nomination. The 50 Dollar polymer Trinidad and Tobago note was followed in voting by the 5000 Franc note from the French Pacific Territories (Tahiti) and the 10 Dinar bill from Kuwait.

Now in its 54th year, the IBNS has over 2000 members worldwide. As a nonprofit educational organization its objectives are to promote, stimulate and advance the study, collection and dissemination of information related to paper money. From all significantly newly designed and widely circulated banknotes released in 2014, the IBNS membership nominated notes from 12 different countries to place on the ballot. Nominees represented three continents (Europe, Asia & Africa), the Middle East, and 4 island nations (2 in the Americas). Past “Bank Note of the Year” winners include Kazakhstan (2013, 2012, 2011), Uganda (2010), Bermuda (2009), Samoa (2008), Scotland (2007), Comoros (2006), Faeroe Islands (2005) and Canada (2004).

The 2014 winning banknote was produced collaboratively by the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago and De La Rue Currency of England. It is the first Central Bank in the Caribbean to issue polymer currency. While the 50 Dollar award-winning bill fittingly commemorates the Central Bank’s Golden Anniversary, “it is meant to be used for all your purchases, like you would any other money.” The note is virtually identical in size to United States bills with a face value of almost 8 U.S. Dollars, 7 Euros or 5 British Pounds at early May 2015 exchange rates.

The stunning design, predominantly gold in color, interprets an artist’s rendering of a red hibiscus flower and truly striking image of a red capped cardinal bird in flight against the clear transparent polymer plastic window. The back of the note features a young female masquerader in an award-winning Carnival costume along with the Central Bank building. Modern polymer banknotes have enjoyed increasing popularity since their introduction in 1988. They offer durability as well as enhanced security features and have become a favorite of many collectors.

Cambodia new 10,000-riel commemorative note confirmed

Cambodia_NBC_10000_riels_2015.00.00_B30a_PNL_2369501_fCambodia_NBC_10000_riels_2015.00.00_B30a_PNL_2369501_r
NBC B30 (PNL): 10,000 រៀល (riels) (US$2.45)
Blue. Front: Naga, mythical snake; King Norodom Sihamoni. Back: Neak Pean (entwined serpents) archeological ruins of Buddhist temple on circular island in Preah Khan Baray, Angkor; stone statue of horse, Balaha. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized *NBC*. Watermark: Floral pattern. Printer: Unknown. 155 x 72 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 3. Intro: 07.05.2015.
This note commemorates the 62th birthday of King Norodom Sihamoni.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby) and Allan Lim (https://www.facebook.com/currencyofcambodia).

Guatemala new date (20.03.2013) 100-quetzal note confirmed

Guatemala_BDG_100_quetzales_2013.03.20_P119_G_16906133_F_f
Guatemala_BDG_100_quetzales_2013.03.20_P119_G_16906133_F_r
100 quetzales, 20 DE MARZO DE 2013. Like P119, but new date, new imprint (OBERTHUR FIDUCIARE), and Braille at lower left front. Prefix G. Suffix F.

Courtesy of Ricardo Ramirez Gonzalez.

Bahamas new 5-dollar note (B345a) confirmed

Bahamas_CBB_5_dollars_2013.00.00_B46a_PNL_G_145605_f
Bahamas_CBB_5_dollars_2013.00.00_B46a_PNL_G_145605_r
5 dollars, 2013. Like B338a, but new date and the map of the islands at center front has been altered. Prefix G.

Courtesy of Sev Onyshkevych.

Kosovo chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Kosovo chapter of The Banknote Book is now available as a free download to all.

This 3-page catalog covers notes issued by the Banka Provizore e Republikës së Kosovës (Kosovo Republic Bank Commission) in 1999. Published 7 May 2015.

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.

Subscribe
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.

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Pakistan new date (2015) 1,000-rupee note (B238m) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B238m_P50_JN_7599042_fPakistan_SBP_1000_rupees_2015.00.00_B238m_P50_JN_7599042_r
Like B238l, but new date (2015).

Courtesy of Zeeshan Yameen.

Hong Kong announces plans for new banknote series in 2017-2018

According to a South China Morning Post article dated 6 May 2015, Hong Kong will incorporate new security features in newly designed banknotes to be introduced in the next two to three years.

India new sig/date (2015) 500-rupee note confirmed

500 rupees, 2015. Like P106, but new signature and new date. No inset letter.

Courtesy of Jinesh Reins Joseph.

What Does It Take to Design a Banknote?

This article was reprinted from SPECIMEN Issue 4 with the permission of Innovia Security, maker of Guardian polymer substrate.

What Does It Take to Design a Banknote?


When it comes to designing a new banknote, aesthetics are just one aspect to be considered. The challenge goes well
beyond the initial concept — —it is to innovate and compose all the visual elements in perfect harmony while incorporating
a selection of complex security features. Banknote designer Carlos Almenar walks us through the process, which at times
can be a maze and requires thinking at multiple levels.

Carlos Almenar
Having worked across the banknote industry, Carlos Almenar knows what makes for a great design.

What is the role of concept design in today’s banknote industry?
A banknote designer is a person capable of interpreting the culture and identity of a nation, to then translate these semantic
concepts into the specic techniques required to build a banknote.

The banknote designer is also an architect who works with a team of specialists in the banknote industry. Their thoughts and reflections must focus on the designs, substrates, security features and printing techniques.

The banknote designer advises central banks regarding the architecture and manufacturing of a banknote – its aesthetics, colours, sizes, security features, substrates, etc. They guarantee that the banknote design will go beyond the aesthetic concept – as a true work of art, the design will be adapted to the complex techniques involved in banknote manufacturing.

In my opinion, today’s banknote designer must adapt and transform the design techniques and concepts to a new dimension of our presentand future.

Should it be a concept or an actual illustration of the fiŸnal note?
A banknote design or concept must be conceptualised with manufacturing in mind. The banknote designer sits between their central bank customer and the manufacturing industry. The design concepts that are created and presented to the central bank must correspond exactly to each step of the manufacturing process. For this reason, there must be fluid and open lines of communication between the banknote designer and all the key groups responsible for the security features.

How much detail should the concept contain?
The banknote designer must consider many di‘erent details, especially since a design cannot just be “beautiful”. The design must go beyond the aesthetic so it can become a truly functional feature that adapts perfectly to the expectations of the central bank. And above all, the banknote design must be fully compatible with the substrate manufacturing and printing techniques.

How much freedom is there to change the concept as the project progresses?
Freedom to introduce changes in a concept design will always be present, although the problem is not its freedom but the time it takes to complete these changes in the design. When a design project is at a late stage in its development and the need to change it arises, time plays a very important role. If the proposed changes are based on subjective reasons, work
can continue for hours on end and it may never reach any conclusions. However, if the reasons are objective and based on sound logic, apositive outcome can be reached in a short time.

How do you cater for the different expectations of various stakeholders?
For me it is important to listen to the div‘ergent views and opinions that participate in the design process towards the creation of a banknote, especially since banknotes are normally made using very complex systems and every note has its own identity and specific security codes. But the most important part is to listen and understand the needs of the central bank. Each country has its own economy and specic needs regarding cash management. It is very important to understand that banknotes are diff‘erent in each nation or issuing authority of circulating currency.

TheWind
From abstract to concrete: Carlos Almenar’s interpretation of the invisible comes alive.

In your experience, are there many differences between designing a concept banknote in polymer versus designing for paper?
The basics of banknote design are simple; however today there is a diversity of substrate technologies propelling the evolution of design into more complex eff‘ects.

Paper substrates have existed for centuries and evolved, not in the raw materials, but in the development of watermarks, security threads and durability. Today there are other substrates such as polymer, and this specically has made banknote designs a lot more dynamic and complex due to its wide array of alternatives intransparency and opacity integrated in highly detailed security features and printing.

Today polymer has evolved in an incredible manner and the creation of a design has evolved accordingly. The security features and composition of the many design layers that form a polymer substrate inspire the designer to focus their activity in the synchronisation of polymer and the associated security features. But beyond this, all these elements must be adapted to the printing systems and therefore an integrated concept design can be achieved: substrate, design architecture, security features and printing. This enables the design to off‘er a variety of products adapted to new technologies that whilst highly-secure, pose greater challenges for would-be counterfeiters.

How do you deal with these differences yourself?
I have had the privilege of designing banknotes on both paper and polymer, which includes working at the Central Bank of Venezuela Print Works, Oberthur Fiduciaire, and now as Banknote Designer at Innovia Security. These experiences have enabled me to understand and appreciate the di‘fferences between the processes used to create a banknote in paper or polymer.

Currently, my work involves an increased use of technology and therefore I must integrate the concepts developed for the
substrate and interact in more detail with the experts in polymer substrate design, as well as with the scientists behind the complex security features. Personally, I think this harmony enables me to create true works of art using leading-edge technology.

This is my biggest challenge: to achieve distinct dimensions of eff‘ects, transparency and opacity
that can be understood by the central bank and accepted by the public. Users must be able to quickly authenticate the note, and banknote accepting machines must also be able to decode security features immediately.

Nigeria new sig/date (2014) 500-naira note confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_500_naira_2014.00.00_B28p_P30_P-12_906841_f
500 naira, 2014. Like B228, but new date and new signatures. Prefix P/12.

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

Nepal new 1,000-rupee note (B286) confirmed

Nepal_NRB_1000_rupees_2013.00.00_B86a_PNL_f
Nepal_NRB_1000_rupees_2013.00.00_B86a_PNL_r
1,000 rupees, 2013. Like B279, but now dated at lower center front and back, and the bank name in English appears on the back.

nepal_v2
On 25 April 2015, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal near the capital of Kathmandu, causing massive devastation in the nation's capital and largest city, with more than 5,800 fatalities officially confirmed as of 30 April. Rescue efforts are underway and the death toll continues to rise. Homes, buildings, and infrastructure have been badly damaged and destroyed. Relief organizations are mobilizing to provide support and emergency supplies to the people impacted.

Please consider helping the relief efforts by donating to any one of the many relieft organizations via PayPal, which is waiving fees for donations made through this campaign, ensuring that 100% of your gift reaches the organization you support.

Courtesy of Dmitry Svobodin.

Central African States new 1,000- and 2,000-franc hybrid notes confirmed

Central_African_States_BEAC_1000_francs_2002.00.00_B7Ud_P207U_U_416208004_r
Central_African_States_BEAC_2000_francs_2002.00.00_B8Ud_P208U_U_312619142_r
According to reports, the Banque des États de l’Afrique Centrale (Bank of the Central African States) has begun printing 500-, 1,000-, and 2,000-franc notes (BEAC B6, B7, and B8, respectively) on hybrid substrate. The notes appear identical to the preceding paper issues, except for the new signature combination of Lucas Abaga Nchama and Salomon Francis Meke. To date the 1,000- and 2,000-franc note has been confirmed with country code U for Cameroon.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Poland new numismatic product confirmed

20150414_album
On 16 April 2015, the National Bank of Poland introduced an album containing all 23 banknotes issued from 1975 to 1993 (none of the notes is legal tender nor exchangeable). 23,000 sets quickly sold out at 190 zloty each (US$53), which is not surprising because until recently these notes would have set you back US$3,000 if purchased separately on the collector market. Because the new album contains notes with prefixes intermingled with those previously confirmed as issued, it’s impossible to distinguish between pieces taken from numismatic products and issued notes.

10 zł
1 czerwca 1982
NBP B32a

20 zł
1 czerwca 1982
NBP B33a

50 zł
9 maja 1975
NBP B34a

100 zł
17 maja 1976
NBP B35b

200 zł
1 czerwca 1986
NBP B36d

500 zł
1 czerwca 1982
NBP B37d

1.000 zł
2 lipca 1975
NBP B38a

2.000 zł
1 czerwca 1979
NBP B39b

5.000 zł
1 czerwca 1982
NBP B40a

10.000 zł
1 lutego 1987
NBP B41a

20.000 zł
1 lutego 1989
NBP B42a

50.000 zł
1 grudnia 1989
NBP B43a

100.000 zł
1 lutego 1990
NBP B44a

200.000 zł
1 grudnia 1989
NBP B45a

500.000 zł
20 kwietnia 1990
NBP B46a

1.000.000 zł
15 lutego 1991
NBP B47a

2.000.000 zł
14 sierpnia 1992
NBP B48a
konstytucyjy
2.000.000 zł
14 sierpnia 1992
NBP B48b
konstytucyjny
50.000 zł
16 listopada 1993
NBP B49a

100.000 zł
16 listopada 1993
NBP B50a

500.000 zł
16 listopada 1993
NBP B51a

1.000.000 zł
16 listopada 1993
NBP B52a

2.000.000 zł
16 listopada 1993
NBP B53a


Courtesy of Krzysztof Czupryński, Darius Alejunas, Albert Vokhmin, and Max Keller.

Macau BNU new date (11.11.2013) 50-pataca note confirmed

50 patacas, 11 DE NOVEMBRO DE 2013. Like P81A, but new date. Prefix AJ.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Macau Banco da China new date (01.07.2013) 50-pataca note confirmed

50 patacas, 1 DE JULHO DE 2013. Like BDC B15a, but new date. Prefix AB.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Solomon Islands new 100-dollar note (B225a) confirmed

Solomon_Islands_CBSI_100_dollars_2015.00.00_B22a_PNL_A-1_083985_f
Solomon_Islands_CBSI_100_dollars_2015.00.00_B22a_PNL_A-1_083985_r
Like B220, but revised design. Intro: 10 April 2015.

The following is a press release from De La Rue:

10 April 2015: A new $100 designed and printed in close collaboration with De La Rue has been launched by the Central Bank of Solomon Islands. This is the second denomination of the new family of notes following the $50 launched in September 2013 .
The Central Bank of Solomon Islands has today issued their new $100 banknote. In keeping with the new $50, this new note uses strong images and bold colours to reflect the vibrancy of the islands.
The overall theme of the note is rural life, depicting particularly the coconut as a major source of income in the rural Solomon Islands. On the front of the note, the abstract pattern work is based on a geometrical design and represents the swirling movement of shoals of fish whilst images portraying rural livelihood, social and economic activities in rural Solomon Islands are shown on the back.
As on the $50, the most prominent security feature is the Optiks™ super wide security thread with a transparent window. This Optiks technology was recognised in 2013 when De La Rue received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation for the thread and its associated paper making process.
On the occasion of the launch of the new $100, the Governor of the Central Bank of the Solomon Islands Denton Rarawa commented “This beautiful banknote is the result of the continued close collaboration between the Central Bank and De La Rue. We thank them for their contribution to the launch of this new note, the second note of our new banknote series”.
De La Rue’s Sales Director Ruth Euling said ”We are delighted to see the issue of this new note and are proud of our continued association with the Solomon Islands, a relationship that dates back almost a century to 1916”.

Also, read the press release from the Central Bank of Solomon Islands.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn, Paul Nahmias, and Claudio Marana.

Malawi new 1,000-kwacha note confirmed

Malawi_RBM_1000_kwacha_2014.01.01_B59a_PNL_AX_2678220_f
Malawi_RBM_1000_kwacha_2014.01.01_B59a_PNL_AX_2678220_r
1,000 kwacha, 1st JANUARY 2014. Like RBM B56, but without the commemorative text at lower right front.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Gambia new dalasi note family confirmed

On 25 February 2015, the Central Bank of The Gambia unveiled a new family of notes, which now includes a 200-dalasi note, twice the size of the previously largest denomination. All of the redesigned banknotes bear the portrait of President Yahya Jammeh and are smaller in size than the preceding issues. The 20-dalasi note will replace the 25-dalasi note which will continue to be legal tender and will continue to circulate until it is fully withdrawn over time.
Originally scheduled for 30 March 2015, the issuance of these notes was postponed until 15 April 2015 due to a delay in the receipt of publicity materials from the printer, De La Rue.

Gambia_CBG_5_dalasis_2015.04.15_B29a_PNL_B_8812621_f
Gambia_CBG_5_dalasis_2015.04.15_B29a_PNL_B_8812621_r

Gambia_CBG_10_dalasis_2015.04.15_B30a_PNL_A_8178321_f
Gambia_CBG_10_dalasis_2015.04.15_B30a_PNL_A_8178321_r

Gambia_CBG_20_dalasis_2015.04.15_B31a_PNL_A_4743521_f
Gambia_CBG_20_dalasis_2015.04.15_B31a_PNL_A_4743521_r

Gambia_CBG_50_dalasis_2015.04.15_B32a_PNL_A_1227521_f
Gambia_CBG_50_dalasis_2015.04.15_B32a_PNL_A_1227521_r

Gambia_CBG_100_dalasis_2015.04.15_B33a_PNL_A_9145621_f
Gambia_CBG_100_dalasis_2015.04.15_B33a_PNL_A_9145621_r

Gambia_CBG_200_dalasis_2015.04.15_B34a_PNL_A_0647721_f
Gambia_CBG_200_dalasis_2015.04.15_B34a_PNL_A_0647721_r

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Hong Kong Bank of China notes dated 01.01.2014 confirmed

All denominations (20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 dollars) have been confirmed dated 1 JANUARY 2014.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Martinique chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Martinique 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 Trésor Colonial (Colonial Treasury) from 1855 to 1884, Banque de la Martinique (Bank of Martinique) from 1870 to 1945, Caisse Centrale de le France Libre (Central Cashier of Free France) in 1941, and Caisse Centrale de le France d’Outre-Mer (Central Cashier of Overseas France) from 1944 to 1960. Published 24 April 2015.

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.

Subscribe
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.

Sign up

United Arab Emirates new 50-dirham note (B239a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_50_dirhams_2014.00.00_B36a_PNL_001_068036_f
United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_50_dirhams_2014.00.00_B36a_PNL_001_068036_r
B239 (P29e): 50 dirhams (US$14)
Purple. Front: Arabic text; OVI coat of arms; oryx (antelope) head with silver foil stamp. Back: English text; Saker falcon; Fort Jahili at Al Ain. 3-mm wide, color-shifting windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 50. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 50 and coffee pot. Printer: (Unknown). 151 x 64 mm. a. ١٤٣٦ (AH1436)/2014. Sig. 4. Prefix 000 - 018.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Cuba new date (2013) 5-peso convertible note (BFX907f) confirmed

Like BFX907e, but new date (2013). Prefix CH 16.

Courtesy of Yigal Arkin.

Albania new sig/date (2013) 5,000-lek note confirmed

Albania_BES_5000_leke_2013.00.00_B21b_P75_XL_319149_sig
5,000 leke, 2013. Like BES B21a, but new date, new signatures (Ardian Fullani and Dorian Çollaku), and 3.0-mm wide windowed security thread.

Official press release dated 8 July 2014:

The 5000 Lekë Albanian banknote, legal tender, issue of 2013, in circulation

The Bank of Albania is notifying the Albanian public that the 5000 Lekë Albanian banknote, legal tender, issue of 2013, will start circulating on 09 July 2014.

Reprinting of the 5000 Lekë Albanian banknote, legal tender, was approved by decision of Bank of Albania’s Supervisory Council, No. 05, dated 17.01.2013, in pursuance of the Law No. 8269, dated 23.12.1997 “On the Bank of Albania”, as amended.

The new 5000 Lekë banknote, issue of 2013, has the same basic design and size as the 5000 Lekë banknote, issue of 2007, put into circulation on 15.05.2009.

The change in the last issue stands in the thickness of the security threat, which is 3 mm from 1.5 mm, the year of issue in the banknote body which is ‘2013’, and the signature of the Head of the Issue Department.

Starting from 09 July 2014, the 5000 Lekë banknote, legal tender, issue of 2013, will be used as means of payment in parallel with all the currently circulating banknotes of this denomination, of earlier issues.

Courtesy of Sev Onyshkevych.

San Marino chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The San Marino chapter of The Banknote Book is now available as a free download to all.

This 1-page catalog covers notes issued by the Cassa di Risparmio della Repubblica di San Marino (Savings Bank of the Republic of San Marino) in 1976. Published 20 April 2015.

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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South Korea's banknote printing firm secures Indonesia substrate contract

According to an article in The Korean Times dated 20 April 2015, the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation (KOMSCO) is seeking customers outside of Korea to offset declines in production brought about by the introduction of a 50,000-won note (BOK B53) in 2009 and the public's increased usage of credit cards instead of cash. "KOMSCO signed a deal with the Indonesian government in February to supply 8 million 'security papers' with enhanced security functions for 880 million won over the next three years," said CEO Kim Hwa-dong. The article mentions that KOMSCO has produced banknotes for the Indonesian government in the past several years, but doesn't identify precisely which notes it printed. Curiously, all current notes in Indonesia (BI B104-B108) bear the imprint PERUM PERCETAKAN UANG RI IMP and make no mention of KOMSCO.

Venezuela new sig/date (29.10.2013) 100-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_100_bolívares_2013.10.29_P93_Z_07040358_sig
100 bolívares, 29 DE OCTUBRE DE 2013. Like P93, but new date and new signatures. Prefix Z, AA.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Romania new date (2015) 200-leu note (B284g) confirmed

Like B284f, but new date (2015).

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Kuwait to withdraw fifth issue notes as of 01.10.2015

According to a Central Bank of Kuwait press release dated 19 April 2015, all fifth issue (CBK B23-B28) notes introduced beginning in 1994 will lose their legal tender status on 1 October 2015, after which time they may still be exchanged by the CBK for a period of ten years.

Tonga chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Tonga 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 Government of Tonga from 1921 to 1989, and the National Reserve Bank of Tonga from 1989 to present. Revised 3 Mayl 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.

Subscribe
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.

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Colombia new date (27.08.2014) 1,000-peso note confirmed

Colombia_BDR_1000_pesos_2014.08.27_P456_03239281_f
1,000 pesos, 27 DE AGOSTO DE 2014. Like P456, but new date.

In 2013 Colombia stoped issuing the 1,000-peso note as it was replaced by a coin. But due to a shortage of the new coin, the bank has reissued the note until sufficient coins can be produced to meet demand.

Courtesy of Camilo Uribe and Antonio E. Pedraza.

Mongolia new date (2014) 10- and 20-tögrög notes (B430d, B431d) confirmed

Mongolia_MB_10_togrog_2014.00.00_B430d_P62_AK_9861615_fMongolia_MB_10_togrog_2014.00.00_B430d_P62_AK_9861615_r
Like B430c, but new date (2014). Prefix AK.

Mongolia_MB_20_togrog_2014.00.00_B431d_P63_AJ_9762632_fMongolia_MB_20_togrog_2014.00.00_B431d_P63_AJ_9762632_r
Like B431c, but new date (2014). Prefix AJ.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Which country has the least sexist banknotes?

The BBC News has an interesting artlcle, "Which country has the least sexist banknotes?"

Courtesy of Mark Irwin and Jim Chen.

Singapore new 50-dollar commemorative polymer note reported

According to an article in The Straits Times dated 14 April 2015, Singapore will issue a new commemorative 50-dollar polymer banknote featuring a transparent panel showing the late Lee Kuan Yew (the first Prime Minister of Singapore) with fist raised, leading the crowd with the rallying cry of "Merdeka!" which means "freedom" in Malay.

Courtesy of Stane Straus (www.polymernotes.org).

Poland banknote numismatic product reported

According to a press release, on 16 April 2015 Narodowy Bank Polkski will begin selling 23,000 special collector albums of 23 banknotes issued from 1975 to 1993 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Polish zloty. The albums will be sold through all NBP regional branches and online at 190 zloty each.

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.

United Arab Emirates new 100-dirham note (B240a) confirmed

United_Arab_Emirates_CBA_100_dirhams_2014.00.00_B37a_PNL_167_671036_f
B240 (P30f): 100 dirhams (US$27)
Red. Front: Arabic text; OVI coat of arms; Fahidi Fort in Dubai with silver foil stamp of castle tower. Back: English text; Saker falcon; Trade Centre Tower in Dubai. 3-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized UAE 100. Watermark: Saker falcon head with electrotype 100 and coffee pot. Printer: (Unknown). 155 x 66 mm. a. ١٤٣٦ (AH1436)/2014. Sig. 4. Prefix 167 - 249.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Gambia delays introduction of new note family until 15.04.2015

PRESS RELEASE
ISSUE OF THE NEW FAMILY OF BANKNOTES

In February, 2015, the Central Bank of The Gambia announced that the new family of Gambian Banknotes including a new D200 banknote will be issued on the 30th March, 2015. Due to delay in the receipt of publicity materials from the printers, the issue into circulation of these banknotes is now slated for 15th April, 2015.
A nationwide sensitization campaign in connection with the issue into circulation of the new family of Gambian banknotes and proper handling of banknotes will commence on the 13th April, 2015.

BANKING DEPARTMENT
30th MARCH, 2015

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.


Thailand new 100-baht commemorative note confirmed

Thailand_BOT_100_baht_2015.04.02_PNL_9P_9458601_fThailand_BOT_100_baht_2015.04.02_PNL_9P_9458601_r
PNL: 100 บาท (baht) (US$3.45)
Red, orange, brown, and green. Front: Royal Garuda emblem; King Rama IX in the Royal House of Chakri gown. Back: Royal Garuda emblem; King Rama IX walking with Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn; flower; Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn; flowers. Holographic stripe. Gold-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 100 บาท 100 BAHT. Watermark: King Rama IX and electrotype ๑๐๐. Printer: (NPW). 150 x 72 mm.

According to a press release dated 31 March 2015, this note commemorates "Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s 5th Cycle Birthday Anniversary."

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Paraguay new 20,000-guaraní note (B860a) confirmed

Paraguay_BCP_20000_guaranies_2013.00.00_B60a_P230_E_07530925_f
Paraguay_BCP_20000_guaranies_2013.00.00_B60a_P230_E_07530925_r
B860 (PNL): 20,000 guaraníes (US$4.50)
Blue and green. Front: Circle symbol for blind; BCP registration device; round coat of arms with star; round emblem with lion and cap La Mujer Paraguaya (Paraguayan woman) holding vase. Back: Modern Banco Central del Paraguay headquarters building in Asunción. Motion windowed security thread with star in circle pattern. Watermark: La Mujer Paraguaya and electrotype 20 MIL. Printer: Joh. Enschedé. 157 x 67 mm.
a. 2013. Signature 21. Prefix E.

Like preceding issues, but with the denomination at upper left front in OVI, new date, and new printer imprint.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 5-pound polymer commemorative confirmed

Scotland_CB_5_pounds_2015.02.13_PNL_FB-1_435488_f
Scotland_CB_5_pounds_2015.02.13_PNL_FB-1_435488_r
According to a post on BBC.com dated 23 March 2015, the Clydesdale Bank has begun issuing the first of two million 5-pound polymer banknotes to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Forth Bridge. The polymer note is physically smaller (125 x 65 mm) than the paper note (137 x 70 mm) of the same denomination.

Courtesy of Max Keller, Clea Phas, Claudio Marana, Aidan Work, and James Cadman.

Singapore new symbol (two stars) 1,000-dollar note confirmed

1,000 dollars, no date. Like MAS B7f, but with two stars below GOVERNMENT on back. Prefix 4AD.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Bin Hao.

India new date (2015) 100-rupee note confirmed with inset letter L

100 rupees, 2015. Like P105, but new date. Inset letter L. Also confirmed with no inset letter.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.


Ghana new sig/date (01.07.2014) 50-cedi note (B151b) confirmed

Ghana_BOG_50_cedis_2014.07.01_B151b_P42_XH_5533960_fGhana_BOG_50_cedis_2014.07.01_B151b_P42_XH_5533960_r
Like B151a, but new date (1st JULY 2014) and new signature (Henry Kofi Wampah). Prefix XH.

Courtesy of Merjim Groen.

Nigeria new sig/date (2015) 50-naira note confirmed

50 naira, 2015. Like B236, but new date and signatures (Godwin Emefiele and Olufemi Fabamwo).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Colombia new sig/date (22.08.2012) 10,000-peso note confirmed

10,000 pesos, 22 DE AGOSTO DE 2012. Like P453, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Switzerland new sig/date (2013) 10-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_10_francs_2013.00.00_P67_N_6703104_sig
10 francs, (20)13. Like P67, but new date and new signatures (Jean Studer and Jean-Pierre Danthine).

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Colombia new sig/date (23.08.2012) 20,000-peso note confirmed

Colombia_BDR_20000_pesos_2012.08.23_P454_00237267_sig
20,000 pesos, 23 DE AGOSTO DE 2012. Like P454, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Venezuela new sig/date (27.10.2013) 100-bolívar note confirmed

Venezuela_BCV_100_bolívares_2013.10.29_P93_Z_07040358_sig
100 bolívares, 27 DE OCTUBRE DE 2013. Like P93, but new date and new signatures. Prefix Z.

Courtesy of José Daniel Fernández.

Argentina new 100-peso note unveiled

Argentina_BCRA_100_pesos_2015.00.00_PNL_24032015_M_fArgentina_BCRA_100_pesos_2015.00.00_PNL_24032015_M_r
According to an article on Diagonales.com dated 26 March 2015, Argentina's president, Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, unveiled a new 100-peso note to commemorate the mothers of those "disappeared" by the military in the Dirty War in 1976. It's unclear when the new note will enter circulation.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas.


Argentina new 50-peso note confirmed

The Banco Central de la República Argentina has issued a 50-peso note in tribute to the defense of national sovereignty over the Malvinas Islands (Falklands), South Georgia, and South Sandwich and the surrounding maritime spaces.

Argentina_BCRA_50_pesos_2015.00.00_PNL_A_02032424_f
Argentina_BCRA_50_pesos_2015.00.00_PNL_A_02032424_r
PNL: 50 pesos (US$10)
Blue, green, pink, and yellow. Front: Lighthouse as registration device; sun gold-to-green SPARK patch with denomination; plants; bird; maps of Malvinas Islands and South America. Back: Antonio “El Gaucho” Rivero holding Argentine flag atop rearing horse; Darwin Cemetery with crosses and flowers; modern warship, ARA General Belgrano; coat of arms; lighthouse. Holographic windowed security thread with demetalized BCRA $50 and Malvinas Islands. Watermark: Malvinas Islands and electrotype IM. Printer: S.E. CASA DE MONEDA. 155 x 65 mm.
a. No date. Signatures: Alejandro Vanoli and Dominguez. Suffix A. Intro: March 2015.

Courtesy of David Murcek (The Monetary Unit), Lawrence Honaker, and Laszló Juhász.

Haiti new date (2014) 50-gourde note confirmed

Haiti_BRH_50_gourdes_2014.00.00_B47e_P274_S_2309002_sig
50 gourdes, 2014. Like BRH B47, but new date (now printed in purple). Prefix S.

Courtesy of David Murcek (The Monetary Unit).

Bank of Scotland new sig/date (01.08.2011) 100-pound note confirmed

Scotland_BOS_100_pounds_2011.08.01_P128_AB_105257_sig
100 pounds, 1st AUGUST 2011. Like P128, but new date and new signatures (António Horta-Osório and Philip Grant). Prefix AB.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Peter Mosselberger.

Northern Ireland's Ulster Bank new date (01.01.2014) 10-pound note confirmed

10 pounds, 1st JANUARY 2014. Like P341, but new date. Prefix K.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Cambodia new date (2014) 1,000-riel note confirmed

1,000 រៀល (riels), បោះពុម្ពឆ្នាំ ២០១៤ (Printed 2014) at lower right on back. Like NBC B21, but new date.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

South West Africa chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The South West Africa chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.


This 10-page catalog covers notes issued by the Barclays Bank from 1931 to 1958, the Standard Bank of South Africa Limited from 1931 to 1959, and the Volkskas Beperk / Volkskas Limited (People’s Bank) from 1949 to 1959. Published 20 March 2015.

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.

Subscribe
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.

Sign up

Bank of Scotland new sig/date (19.01.2009) 5-pound note confirmed

Scotland_BOS_5_pounds_2009.01.01_P124_AR_337923_sig
5 pounds, 19th JANUARY 2009. Like P124, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Bangladesh new date (2014) 1,000-taka note confirmed

1,000 taka, 2014. Like BB B54c, but new date.

Courtesy of Dmitry Svobodin.


Philippines new date (2014A) 500-peso note confirmed

500 pesos, 2014 A. Like P210, but new date.

Courtesy of Andy Siegman.

Iran new signature 5,000-rial note (B282b) confirmed

Iran_CBI_5000_rials_2013.07.00_B82b_P152_25-21_956668_sig
B282b
5,000 rials, no date. Like CBI B282a, but new signatures (Valiyollah Seif and Ali Tayebnia).

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (www.banknoten.de).

Book Review: Catalogue of Greek Paper Money 1822-2002

Catalogue of Greek Paper Money
Catalogue of Greek Paper Money 1822-2002
Evangelos Fysikas, 400 pages, soft cover, 230 x 150 mm, B&W illustrations, Greek/English, ISBN-13 9789609363327, €34 (plus shipping), http://greeknotes.blogspot.gr, greeknotes@gmail.com

Reviewed by Owen W. Linzmayer

Kudos to author Evangelos Fysikas for having created a wonderfully accessible and detailed specialized catalog covering Greek notes issued by various banks from 1822 until the 2002 introduction of the euro.

The chapters are broken up by issuer, with the notes presented chronologically, and then by denomination. While the descriptions of the notes’ imagery and designs are very bare bones, the listings do contain details of importance to specialized collectors and generalists alike, including printer, dimensions, introduction/withdrawal dates, and watermarks. Instead of prices, the catalog shows rarity ratings (1-9) for four grades of condition (F, VF, XF, UNC). This is sure to disappoint collectors hoping for guidance with valuations, but by eliminating prices, the catalog won’t appear obsolete if the market changes drastically, which is not out of the question given Greece’s recent economic troubles.

Each chapter begins with a fair amount of introductory text in Greek followed by English translations which are remarkably clear and unambiguous. I appreciate the historical background contained in these sections, helping explain why notes were issued as well as describing the differences between the many issues.

My biggest disappointment with this catalog is the use of black and white illustrations which simply don’t do justice to the beautiful color notes. Also, a fair number of the earlier, rarer notes are not illustrated at all. Another disappointment is a lack of Pick numbers in the main listings. Fortunately there is a cross-reference table in an appendix, but that’s not nearly as convenient.

For any serious specialized collector, Catalogue of Greek Paper Money is a must-have reference, if for nothing other than the appendices which succinctly list every note variety by date, prefix and serial number ranges, and signatures.

India new date (2015) 20-rupee note confirmed

20 rupees, 2014. Like P103, but new signature (Raghuram G. Rajan) and new date. Inset letter: None, R.

Courtesy of IndianPaperMoney.

Viet-Nam Coins & Papermoney catalog reprinted

Viet-Nam Coins & Papermoney
Massimiliano Valota has reprinted the second edition of Viet-Nam Coins & Papermoney, a 350-page catalog in English with color images, index of rarity, and cross-references to other catalogs for easy searching. The catalog covers the coins and notes of South Vietnam, North Vietnam, Vietnam Socialist, and military payment coupons.

This catalog received an Honorable Mention in 2013 by the International Bank Note Society "for significant contribution to the advancement of numismatic knowledge."

Cost is 30 euro each, excluding shipping.

Anyone interested in buying one of these catalogs can contact the author by clicking the link below.

Courtesy of Massimiliano Valota (www.vietnampapermoneyandcoins.com).

Ukraine new 100-hryvnia note (B854) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_100_hryven_2014.00.00_B54a_PNL_УA_3722450_f
Ukraine_NBU_100_hryven_2014.00.00_B54a_PNL_УA_3722450_r
B854 (PNL): 100 гривень (hryven) (US$4.65)
Olive green, brown, red, and purple. Front: Artist Taras Shevchenko; coat of arms; painter’s palette and brushes as gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Taras Shevchenko National University building in Kyiv. Motion windowed security thread with demetalized 100. Solid security thread with demetalized 100 ГРН and trident. Watermark: Taras Shevchenko and electrotype 100. Printer: (NBU). 142 x 75 mm.
a. 2014. Signature 9. Intro: 09.03.2015.

Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov (http://www.worldbanknotes.t15.org), Cleo Phas, and Ivan Bogdanov (http://bonistics.org).

Maldives new 1,000-rufiyaa note to be introduced in October 2015

According to an article on Sun.mv dated 9 March 2015, the Maldives Monetary Authority will replace the 5-rufiyaa note (MMA B10) with a coin in 2016, and will introduce a new denomination, the 1,000-rufiyaa note, in October 2015.

According to another article, the winner of the competition for designing the new series of banknotes is Abdulla Nashath. Javaahirumaage, Baa Kendhoo. The new series of notes will be printed on polymer, not paper. The 10-, 50-, and 1,000-rufiyaa notes will be issued in October 2015, followed by the 100- and 500-rufiyaa in 2016.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

Haiti new sig/date (2013) 100-gourde note confirmed

Haiti_BRH_100_gourdes_2013.00.00_B48d1_P275_S_4946866_sigs
100 gourdes, 2013. Like BRH B48, but new date and new signatures. Prefix S.

Courtesy of Clive Brind.

Colombia new date (31.08.2013) 5,000-peso note confirmed

5,000 pesos, 31 DE AGOSTO DE 2013. Like P452, but new date.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Pakistan new sig/date (2014) 5,000-rupee note (B239g) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_5000_rupees_2014.00.00_B239g_P51_V_0042986_fPakistan_SBP_5000_rupees_2014.00.00_B239g_P51_V_0042986_r
Like B239f, but new date (2014) and new signature (Ashraf Mahmood Wathra). Prefix V.

Courtesy of Chris Hall.

India to resume printing 1-rupee notes in 2015

India_GOI_1_rupee_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL_00A_002797
According to an article in The Hindu BusinessLine dated 25 December 2014, in 2015 the government of India will resume printing 1-rupee banknotes after a 20-year hiatus. The new notes will carry the signature of the finance secretary, not the governor of the Reserve Bank of India, which appears on all other denominations. The new 1-rupee note will be pink and green.

Courtesy of Aidan Work and Mohamed Ibrahim.

United Arab Emirates new 50- and 100-dirham notes to be introduced 09.03.2015

According to an article on ArabianBusiness.com dated 7 March 2014, on Monday 9 March the Central Bank of the UAE will introduce 50- and 100-dirham notes with tactile marks (not Braille) so that they will be readable by the visually impaired.

Hong Kong new date (01.01.2014) 20-dollar note confirmed

20 dollars, 1 JANUARY 2014. Like BOC B16, but new date. Prefix EF.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Iraq to withdraw 50-dinar notes as of 30.04.2015

According to an Arabic-language press release dated 25 February 2015, the Central Bank of Iraq is withdrawing its lowest-denomination note, the 50 dinar note (CBI B46), as of 30 April 2015.

Courtesy of Nick.

Libya new 10-dinar variety (B542b) confirmed

Libya_CBL_10_dinars_2011.02.17_B42a_P78_1_-2_429690_f
Libya_CBL_10_dinars_2011.02.17_B42b_P78_1_-182_850053_f
B542b: 10 dinars, 17-2-2011. Like B542a (top), but Arabic bank name at upper center front has shifted upwards, above Omar El Mukhtar's eyes (bottom).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

India new date (2015) 50-rupee note confirmed

50 rupees, 2015. Like P104, but new date.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

Gambia new 20-dalasi note confirmed

Gambia_CBG_20_dalasis_2014.07.22_B30a_PNL_A_0038448_f
Gambia_CBG_20_dalasis_2014.07.22_B30a_PNL_A_0038448_r

CBG B30 (PNL): 20 dalasis (US$0.60)
Green. Front: Crocodile; carmine bee eater bird in flight and perched on tree branch; monkeys, trees, and boats in underprint; President Yahya Jammeh. Back: State House. No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: (TDLR). 144 x 75 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 22nd July 2014. Signature 16. Prefix A. Intro: 02.03.2015.
This note commemorates the 20th anniversary of the revolution of 22 July.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (www.banknoten.de).

India new date (2015) 10-rupee note confirmed

10 rupees, 2015. Like P102, but new date. Inset letter T, N.

Courtesy of IndianPaperMoney.

Bank of England new sig 10-, 20-, and 50-pound notes confirmed

Great_Britain_BOE_20_pounds_2006.00.00_P392_JK72_948942_sig
According to a press release dated 24 February 2015, "With effect from 3 March 2015, the Bank of England will be issuing into circulation £10, £20 and £50 notes bearing the signature of the current Chief Cashier, Victoria Cleland. These notes are the same design as those currently in circulation which bear the signature of Chris Salmon, the previous Chief Cashier, and of his predecessors Andrew Bailey and Merlyn Lowther. Cleland notes will circulate alongside the remaining Salmon, Bailey and Lowther notes, with the same status.

The first £5 notes bearing the signature of Victoria Cleland will be printed on polymer and introduced into circulation from the second half of 2016.

£10, £20 and £50 notes bearing Victoria Cleland’s signature will be made available to the cash industry from 3 March 2015 and will be dispensed from some ATMs and branch counters shortly thereafter. Low serial numbered notes will not be available from the Bank’s counter."

Anyone interested in buying one of these notes can contact the contributor by clicking the link below.

Courtesy of Antje Maroussi and Pam West.

Iran new 50,000-rial commemorative note reported for spring 2015 introduction

Iran_CBI_50000_rials_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL
According to an article on FARS News Agency, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the founding of the University of Tehran, the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran has announced its intention to introduce a new 50,000-rial note in the spring.

Courtesy of Hamaseh Golestaneh and
Christian Funke.

Nigeria new sig/date (2014) 5-naira note confirmed

5 naira, 2014. Like B234e, but new date and new signatures (Godwin Emefiele and Olufemi Fabamwo).

Courtesy of Evgeny Afanasov.

IBNS Banknote of 2014 voting is open through 29.03.2015

bnoy2014
The International Bank Note Society would like to remind members that voting is now open for Banknote of 2014. Members may choose their top three notes from those depicted above. Voting is open until 23:59GMT Sunday 29th March. The result of the voting will be announced at the IBNS Board Meeting in Valkenburg in April 2015.

Thailand new 100-baht note confirmed

Thailand_BOT_100_baht_2015.02.26_PNL_0A_3798902_f
Thailand_BOT_100_baht_2015.02.26_PNL_0A_3798902_r
PNL: 100 บาท (baht) (US$3.45)
Red, orange, brown, and green. Front: Royal Garuda emblem; King Rama IX in the Royal House of Chakri gown. Back: Royal Garuda emblem; King Taksin the Great. Holographic stripe. Gold-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 100 บาท 100 BAHT. Watermark: King Rama IX and electrotype ๑๐๐. Printer: (NPW). 150 x 72 mm.

According to a press release by the Bank of Thailand, a new 100-baht note was introduced 26 February 2015.

Courtesy of Sanjay Basu and Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Vietnam new date (2015) 10,000-dong note confirmed

10,000 dong, (20)15. Like SBV B43, but new date. Prefix KG.

Courtesy of Evgeny Afanasov.

Angola chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Angola 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 Banco de Angola (Bank of Angola) from 1927 to 1973, and the Banco Nacional de Angola (National Bank of Angola) from 1976 to present. Published 27 February 2015.

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.

Subscribe
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.

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West African States (Senegal) new date (2014) 500-franc note

500 francs, (20)14. Like unlisted 500-franc note introduced in 2012, but new date. Prefix K (Senegal).

Courtesy of David Murcek (The Monetary Unit).

Gambia unveils new note family including 20- and 200-dalasi denominations

Posters - DLR - Gambia A2 Poster - New family of Banknotes_Page_1
Gambia_CBG_20_dalasis_2015.00.00_B30a_PNL_A_0033713_f
According to an article in The Point dated 26 February 2015, on 25 February the Central Bank of The Gambia launched a new 20-dalasi polymer note, part of a new family of notes, which now includes a 200-dalasi note, twice the size of the previously largest denomination.

Please note that the D20 note shown in the poster above is incorrectly shown as blue with a windowed security thread, whereas the actual note is green without a security thread.

"All of the redesigned banknotes bear the portrait of President Yahya Jammeh and are smaller in size than the existing paper-based banknotes.

The D20 will replace the existing D25 banknote which will continue to be legal tender and will continue to circulate until it is fully withdrawn over time, the release stated.

The historic event held at State House formed part of activities marking the country`s Golden Jubilee.

In his statement, President Jammeh urged Gambians to take ownership of the new banknotes and handle them with care.

He called on the Gambian populace to familiarize themselves with the new banknotes, and help in ensuring their protection from counterfeiters.

He assured De La Rue, the firm that printed the country`s currency, of the government`s continued partnership."

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Hungary new date (2015) 10,000-forint note (B591b) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_10000_forint_2015.00.00_B591b_P206_f
Like B591a, but new date (2015).

Courtesy of Róbert Szajkó.

Mauritania new 200-ouguiya note (B121) confirmed

Mauritania_BCM_200_ouguiya_2013.11.28_B24a_PNL_BA_0434481_A_f
Mauritania_BCM_200_ouguiya_2013.11.28_B24a_PNL_BA_0434481_A_r
According to a press release, persuant to Décret Nº 237-2014 the Central Bank of Mauritania has issued a new 200-ouguiya banknote. The design is based upon the preceding note (B115), but is reduced in size to 134 x 65 mm. Both notes will circulate in parallel.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Thomas Augustsson.

European Monetary Union new 20-euro note to be issued 25.11.2015

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_20_euros_2015.00.00_B10_PNL_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_20_euros_2015.00.00_B10_PNL_r
On 24 February 2015, Mario Draghi, president of the European Central Bank, unveiled the new 20-euro banknote in Frankfurt. The new note will be introduced 25 November 2015.

The new note includes an innovative security feature in the form of a “portrait window” set in the hologram. When the banknote is held against the light, the window becomes transparent and reveals a portrait of the mythological figure Europa, visible on both sides of the note. The new €20 banknote, like the new €5 and €10 notes, also includes an “emerald number” and a portrait of Europa in the watermark.

Courtesy of Michel Daspre.

Haiti new sig/date (2013) 250-gourde note confirmed

Haiti_BRH_250_gourdes_2013.00.00_B49e_P276_E_1850104_sig
250 gourdes, 2013. Like BRH B49d, but new date and new signatures. Prefix E.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Philippines new date (2015) 500-peso note confirmed

500 pesos, 2015. Like P210, but new date. Prefix M.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Tunisia new caption variety 20-dinar note confirmed

Tunisia_BCT_20_dinars_2011.03.20_B33a_P93_details
20 dinars, 2011-3-20. Like BCT B33a, but caption on back changed from L'ÉCOLE SADIKI (error; prefix E/1 - E/6) to COLLEGE SADIKI (correction; prefix E/7 onward).

Courtesy of Tristan Kolm and Arnoldo Efron.

Australia's next notes to have features for the vision impaired

According to a press release dated 13 February 2015, Glenn Stevens, governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, "announced that the next generation of Australian banknotes will include a ‘tactile’ feature to assist people with a vision impairment.

As previously announced, existing features to help the vision impaired tell the difference between different denominations of Australian banknotes will be maintained on the new series. These include: bright colours; large and bold numbers; and different sizes for each denomination of banknote. The Bank will also continue to fund the production of the ‘cash test card’. The addition of a ‘tactile’ feature will further assist people with a vision impairment to tell the difference between denominations.

This decision is the culmination of extensive research by the Bank into whether an effective and durable tactile marking could be included on Australian banknotes. This included consultation with the vision impaired community, other stakeholders and overseas central banks.

The testing and trialling process for the next generation of banknotes is ongoing and designs have not yet been finalised. Details about the new designs, the release dates and how they will be issued will be released in a timely way, so that the public can be confident they understand how to recognise and use the new banknotes."

Courtesy of Shane Rivett.

Sweden unveils new designs for new notes due in October 2015

20_new_sedel_specimen_fram
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50_new_sedel_specimen_fram
50_new_sedel_specimen_bak

100_new_sedel_specimen_fram
100_new_sedel_specimen_bak

200_new_sedel_specimen_fram
200_new_sedel_specimen_bak

500_new_sedel_specimen_fram
500_new_sedel_specimen_bak

1000_new_sedel_specimen_fram
1000_new_sedel_specimen_bak
Svergies Riksbank has unveiled the designs of its new note family. The 20, 50, 200, and 1000 krona are scheduled for introduction in October 2015, followed by the 100 and 500 krona in October 2016.

Courtesy of Daniel Svensson.

India new 1-rupee banknote reported

According to a press release dated 13 February 2015, the Reserve Bank of India will soon introduce a new 1-rupee banknote on paper substrate measuring 97 x 63 mm.

Courtesy of Mohamed Ibrahim.

Cuba new 200-, 500-, and 1,000-peso notes confirmed

Cuba_BCC_200_pesos_2010.00.00_B16a_PNL_HA_03_288519_f
Cuba_BCC_200_pesos_2010.00.00_B16a_PNL_HA_03_288519_r
B916 (P130): 200 pesos (US$7.60)
Orange, brown, and blue-gray. Front: Bank logo; student reformer, Frank Isaac País García. Back: CIUDAD ESCOLAR 26 DE JULIO (city school 26 July) building and palm trees in Santiago de Cuba. Windowed security thread with demetalized BCC 200. Watermark: Celia Sánchez Manduley and electrotype 200. Printer: (IDS). 150 x 70 mm.
a. 2010. Sig. 2. Series HA03. Intro: 01.02.2015.

Cuba_BCC_500_pesos_2010.00.00_B17a_PNL_IA_12_08004_f
Cuba_BCC_500_pesos_2010.00.00_B17a_PNL_IA_12_08004_r
B917 (P131): 100 pesos (US$19)
Green, red, and purple. Front: Bank logo; revolutionary, Ignacio Agramonte y Loynáz. Back: ASAMBLEA CONSTITUYENTE DE GUAIMARO (Constituent Assembly in Guáimaro, 10 April 1869) with Carlos Manuel de Céspedes and others gathered around a table with flags a portraits. Windowed security thread with demetalized BCC 500. Watermark: Celia Sánchez Manduley and electrotype 500. Printer: (IDS). 150 x 70 mm.
a. 2010. Sig. 2. Series IA12. Intro: 01.02.2015.

Cuba_BCC_1000_pesos_2010.00.00_B18a_PNL_JA_14_257408_f
Cuba_BCC_1000_pesos_2010.00.00_B18a_PNL_JA_14_257408_r
B98 (P132): 1,000 pesos (US$38)
Red, orange, and brown. Front: Bank logo; founder of the “internationalized” Cuban Communist Party, Julio Antonio Mella McPartland. Back: UNIVERSIDAD DE LA HABANA (University of Havana). Windowed security thread with demetalized BCC 1000. Watermark: Celia Sánchez Manduley and electrotype 1000. Printer: (IDS). 150 x 70 mm.
a. 2010. Sig. 2. Series JA14. Intro: 01.02.2015.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Vietnam new date (2014) 20,000-, 50,000-, and 200,0000-dong notes confirmed

20,000 dong, (20)14. Like SBV B44e, but new date.
50,000 dong, (20)14. Like SBV B45g, but new date.
200,000 dong, (20)14. Like SBV B47f, but new date.

Courtesy of Evgeny Afanasov and Claudio Marana.

Zambia new date (2014) 50-kwacha note (B156c) confirmed

Zambia_BOZ_50_kwacha_2014.00.00_B156c_P53_EG-12_9011182_fZambia_BOZ_50_kwacha_2014.00.00_B156c_P53_EG-12_9011182_r
Like B156b, but new date (2014). Prefix EG/12.

Courtesy of David Jones.

Hong Kong new date (2014) 10-dollar note confirmed

10 dollars, 1st JANUARY 2014. Like P401, but new date.

Courtesy of Terence Chan (Toyo Numismatic & Stamp Co).

Singapore new symbol 2-dollar note confirmed

Singapore_MAS_2_dollars_2011.07.00_B8g_P46_5KB_21003_detail
2 dollars, no date. Likbe MAS B8f, but with two diamonds below EDUCATION on back.

Courtesy of Bin Hao.

Nigeria new sig/date (2015) 5-naira note confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_5_naira_2015.00.00_B34f_PNL_BN_3088601_sig
5 naira, 2015. Like B234e, but new date and new signatures (Godwin Emefiele and Olufemi Fabamwo).

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

Nigeria new 100-naira commemorative confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_100_naira_2014.00.00_B38a_PNL_AD_3420702_f
Nigeria_CBN_100_naira_2014.00.00_B38a_PNL_AD_3420702_r

CBN B38 (PNL): 100 naira (US$0.70)
Purple, red, peach, brown, and green. Front: Coconut as registration device; Chief Obafemi Awolowo, former Premier of Western Region; several coconuts; green-to-purple SPARK patch with manilla; cotton boll. Back: Manillas; primitive animal figures (alligator, snake, fish, turtle) and leaves in underprint; Quick Recognition Code; manila and coconuts; five Nigerians in native dress playing musical instrument, carrying baskets, and dancing; coat of arms; cowrie shells. Motion windowed security thread with the Nigerian flag and 100. Watermark: Chief Obafemi Awolowo and electrotype 100 CBN. Printer: Unknown. 151 x 78 mm.
a. 2014. Signature 21. Prefix AB - AD. Intro: 19.12.2014.

Nigeria_CBN_100_naira_2014.00.00_B38a_PNL_AD_3420702_QR
This is the first banknote in the world to incorporate a Quick Recognition Code into its design. When scanned with an Internet-enabled mobile device, the code goes to a web site which tells the centenary story of Nigeria. The code is the same on every note.

You can even scan the code directly from this screen or click here to visit the ₦100 Commemorative Centenary Banknote web site.

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

Paraguay new 50,000-guaraní note (B859a) confirmed

Paraguay_BCP_50000_guaranies_2013.00.00_B59a_PNL_G_02309760_f
Paraguay_BCP_50000_guaranies_2013.00.00_B59a_PNL_G_02309760_r
B859 (PNL): 50,000 guaraníes (US$11)
Purple, peach, and green. Front: Pentagon symbol for blind; map; guitar registration device; guitarist and composer Agustín Pío Barrios (also known as Mangoré) in tuxedo; round coat of arms with star; round emblem with lion and cap. Back: Guitar. Motion windowed security thread. Watermark: Agustín Pío Barrios and electrotype 50 MIL. Printer: Joh. Enschedé. 157 x 67 mm.
a. 2013. Signature 23. Prefix G.
Like B853, but 50MIL at upper left front in OVI and different musical notation at center back, along with new date, new signature, and new printer imprint.

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Haiti new sig/date (2014) 500-gourde note confirmed

Haiti_BRH_500_gourdes_2014.00.00_B50e_P277_D_9567902_sig
500 gourdes, 2014. Like BRH B50, but new date (in brown, not green) and new signatures. Prefix D.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Haiti new sig/date (2014) 100-gourde note confirmed

Haiti_BRH_100_gourdes_2014.00.00_B48d_P275_T_8551703_sig
100 gourdes, 2014. Like BRH B48, but new date and new signatures. Prefix T.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Haiti new sig/date (2014) 25-gourde note confirmed

Haiti_BRH_25_gourdes_2014.00.00_B39e_P266_GH_923106_sig
25 gourdes, 2014. Like BRH B39d, but new date and new signatures. Prefix GH.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Haiti new date (2014) 10-gourde note confirmed

10 gourdes, 2014. Like BRH B45e, but new date. Prefix N.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Singapore new sig/symbol 10-dollar note confirmed

Singapore_MAS_10_dollars_2014.01.00_B10i_P48_5EQ_464415_symbols
10 dollars, no date. Like MAS B10, but with hollow or solid house symbol on back, below SPORTS, and new signature (Tharman Shanmugaratnam).

Courtesy of Lim Kok Keng and Evgeny Afanasov.

Colombia new date (18.08.2012) 2,000-peso note confirmed

2,000 pesos, 18 DE AGOSTO DE 2012. Like P457, but new date.

Courtesy of Andrés Collazos.

Colombia new date (20.08.2012) 5,000-peso note confirmed

5,000 pesos, 20 DE AGOSTO DE 2012. Like P452, but new date.

Courtesy of Andrés Collazos.

Colombia new date (21.08.2012) 10,000-peso note confirmed

10,000 pesos, 21 DE AGOSTO DE 2012. Like P453, but new date.

Courtesy of Andrés Collazos.

Colombia new date (06.08.2010) 20,000-peso note confirmed

20,000 pesos, 6 DE AGOSTO DE 2010. Like P454, but new date.

Courtesy of Andrés Collazos.

Colombia new date (28.08.2011) 50,000-peso note confirmed

50,000 pesos, 28 DE AGOSTO DE 2011. Like P455, but new date.

Courtesy of Andrés Collazos.

Romania new date (2013) 5-leu note (B279f) confirmed

Like B279e, but new date (2013).

Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe.

Haiti new sig/date (2014) 1,000-gourde note confirmed

Haiti_BRH_1000_gourdes_2014.00.00_B37e_P278_BQ_344022_sig
1,000 gourdes, 2014. Like BRH B37d, but new date and signature 15. Prefix BQ.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Indonesia new date (2013) 100,000-rupiah confirmed

Indonesia_BI_100000_rupiah_2013.00.00_B107c1_P153_GKT_101065_sig
100,000 rupiah, 2013. Like BI B107b, but new date. Prefix GKT. This denomination has previously been confirmed with the same date, but a new signature and later prefix KKN.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Iran chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Iran chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 54-page catalog covers notes issued by the Banque Mellié Iran/Bank Melli Iran (National Bank of Iran) from 1932 to 1958, and the Bank Markazi Iran (Central Bank of Iran) from 1961 to present. Published 30 January 2015.

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.

Subscribe
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.

Sign up

Congo Democratic Republic new sig/date (30.06.2013) 10,000-franc note confirmed

Congo_Democratic_Republic_BCC_10000_francs_2013.06.30_B25b_P103_S_0049004_B_sig
10,000 francs, 30.06.2013. Like BCC B25a, but new date and signature (Deogratias Mutombo Mwana Nyembo, who took over as governor from Jean-Claude Masangu Mulongo on 14.05.2013).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Cambodia new 500-riel note confirmed


Cambodia_NBC_500_riels_2014.00.00_B29a_PNL_2295088_fCambodia_NBC_500_riels_2014.00.00_B29a_PNL_2295088_r
NBC B29 (PNL): 500 រៀល (riels) (US$0.10)
Pink and gray. Front: Naga, mythical snake; coat of arms; King Sihamoni. Back: Nak Loeung Bridge; car driving over Kizuna (Cambodia-Japan Friendship) bridge over Mekong river at Kampong Cham. No security thread. Watermark: Floral pattern. Printer: Unknown. 138 x 64 mm.
a. 2014. Signature 3. Intro: 14.01.2015.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Switzerland new sig/date (2013) 10-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_10_francs_2013.00.00_P67_E_1501747_sig
10 francs, (20)13. Like P67, but new date and new signatures (Jean Studer and Fritz Zurbrügg).

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

The Banknote Book reviewed in CoinsWeekly

I'm very pleased to see that Ursula Kampmann reviewed The Banknote Book in CoinsWeekly on 8 January 2015. Read the full review in translated English or in the original German.

Nigeria new signature variety 1,000-naira note confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_1000_naira_2013.00.00_B29i1_P36_M-71_183497_fNigeria_CBN_1000_naira_2013.00.00_B29i2_P36_R-23_428433_f
The Governor's signature on the 1,000-naira note dated 2013 and 2014 is confirmed in two different lengths. One in which it is longer than the Director's signature, and another in which they are about the same length.

Courtesy of Chris Hall.

Nigeria new date (2014) 20-naira note confirmed

20 naira, 2014. Like B232, but new date (signatures: Sanusi Lamido Sanusi and Mahmoud K. Umar).

This denomination has been confirmed dated 2014 with two different signature combinations (the pair cited above, as well as Godwin Emefiele and Olufemi Fabamwo). Curiously, there appears to be overlapping of the prefixes for the signature varieties, with alphabetically earlier prefixes appearing on notes with the newer signatures than the older signatures.

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

Jamaica new date (01.01.2014) 1,000-dollar note (B241h) confirmed

1,000 dollars, 01.01.2014. Like B241g, but new date. Prefix AG - AP.

Courtesy of André Chin.

Romania new date (2013) 10-leu note (B281f) confirmed

Like B281e, but new date (2013).

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Belarus new 500,000-ruble note under consideration

According to an article on Belarusian News dated 20 January 2015, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus is considering introducing a 500,000-ruble banknote. “The final decision will be made taking into account the current economic situation and will be announced by the National Bank in advance,” the bank said.

Peru new 20-nuevo sole note confirmed

Peru_BCRP_20_nuevos_soles_2009.08.13_P183_A_3003303_A_f
Peru_BCRP_20_nuevos_soles_2009.08.13_P183_A_3003303_A_r

Peru_BCRP_20_nuevos_soles_2013.01.17_PNL_B_7159478_B_f
Peru_BCRP_20_nuevos_soles_2013.01.17_PNL_B_7159478_B_r
20 nuevos pesos, 17 DE ENERO DE 2013. Like P183, but new date, new signatures, and subtle color changes on front and back.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Peru new sig/date (22.03.2012) 50-nuevo sol note confirmed

Peru_BCRP_50_nuevos_soles_2012.03.22_P184_A_2474420_N_sig
50 nuevos soles, 22 DE MARZO DE 2012. Like P184, but new signatures and new date. Prefix/suffix A/N.

Courtesy of Andrew Quirke.

Cambodia new 100-riel note confirmed

Cambodia_NBC_100_riels_2014.00.00_B28a_PNL_6310102_f
Cambodia_NBC_100_riels_2014.00.00_B28a_PNL_6310102_r
NBC B28 (PNL): 100 រៀល (riels) (Orange and brown. Front: Naga, mythical snake; King Father as a young monk. Back: Silver Pagoda of Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. No security thread. Watermark: Floral pattern. Printer: Unknown. 138 x 64 mm.
a. 2014. Signature 3. Intro: 14.01.2015.

Courtesy of Nin Cheun (Noteshobby).

Cuba new date (2014) 100-peso note (B912f) confirmed

Like B912e, but new date (2014). Prefix AH03.

Courtesy of Yigal Arkin.

Cuba new date (2005) 3-peso note (B903b) confirmed

3 pesos, 2005. Like B903a, but new date. Prefix FB04.

Courtesy of Yigal Arkin.

Nigeria new sig/date (2014) 20-naira note confirmed

Nigeria_CBN_20_naira_2014.00.00_B32m_P34_BT_0978466_sig
20 naira, 2014. Like B232l, but new date and new signatures (Godwin Emefiele and Olufemi Fabamwo).

Courtesy of Evžen Škňouřil.

Cambodia new 100- and 500-riel notes reported

Cambodia_NBC_100_riels_2014.00.00_B28as_PNL_0000000_f
Cambodia_NBC_100_riels_2014.00.00_B28as_PNL_0000000_r

Cambodia_NBC_500_riels_2014.00.00_B29as_PNL_0000000_f
Cambodia_NBC_500_riels_2014.00.00_B29as_PNL_0000000_r

According to a Khmer Times article dated 14 January 2015, the National Bank of Cambodia has reportedly issued new 100 រៀល (riels) and 500 រៀល (riels) notes.

The orange and brown 100-riel note depicts the King Father as a young monk on the front, the Silver Palace on the back, and a Khmer statue as the watermark. The pink and gray 500-riel note depicts King Sihamoni on the front, the Kizuna bridge on the back, and the Nak Loeung Bridge as the watermark. Both notes measure 138 x 64 mm.

Courtesy of Allan Lim, Mike, and Claudio Marana.

Cuba new 200-, 500-, and 1,000-peso notes to be issued 01.02.2015

Pancarta1-580x819
According to various sources, on 1 February 2015 the Banco Central de Cuba will introduce new 200-, 500-, and 1,000-peso notes to ease economic transactions as currently the largest denomination is the 100-peso note (BCC B12).

All three notes are dated 2010 and measure 150 x 70 mm.
  • The orange 200-peso note features a portrait of Frank País on front and city school 26 July on back.
  • The green 500-peso note features a portrait of Ignacio Agramonte on front and an image of the Constituent Assembly Guáimaro on back.
  • The red 1,000-peso note features a portrait of Julio Antonio Mella on front and a view of the University of Havana on back.

The notes will be protected against counterfeiting by windowed security threads, watermarks of Celia Sanchez and the portrait of the note plus electrotype denomination, and microprinting. There are also intaglio printed marks to assist the visually impaired.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Raul Perez-Alejo Neyra, Johnny Mollindo, Emilio Jesús, Cleo Phas, and Yigal Arkin.

Somaliland new sig/date (2012) 1,000-shilling note confirmed

Somaliland_BOS_1000_shillings_2012.00.00_B23b_P20_EB_551114_sig
1,000 shillings, 2012. Like BOS B23a, but new date and new signature.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Denmark chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Denmark chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 17-page catalog covers notes issued by the Danmarks Nationalbank (Danish National Bank) from 1937 to present. Published 16 January 2015.

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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Trinidad and Tobago new 5-dollar note confirmed

Trinidad_Tobago_CBTT_5_dollars_2006.00.00_B30a_PNL_EB_091454_f
Trinidad_Tobago_CBTT_5_dollars_2006.00.00_B30a_PNL_EB_091454_r
5 dollars, 2006. Like CBTT B22, but new signature (Jwala Rambarran, who took over as governor from Ewart S. Williams on 13.07.2012) and raised horizontal bars at upper left and right front to assist the visually impaired distinguish between denominations.

Courtesy of Rachel Peters.

Vietnam new date (2014) 500,000-dong note confirmed

500,000 dong, (20)14. Like SBV B48i, but new date.

Courtesy of Mark Fox.

Iran new signature 10,000-rial note (B283h) confirmed

Iran_CBI_10000_rials_1992.10.24_B83h_P146_19-43_881896_sig
B283h
10,000 rials, no date. Like B283, but new signatures (Tahmasb Mazaheri and Davoud Danesh-Jafari).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Cape Verde new 200-, 1,000- and 2,000-escudo notes confirmed

Cape_Verde_BCV_200_escudos_2014.06.05_B17a_PNL_AA_022603_f
Cape_Verde_BCV_200_escudos_2014.06.05_B17a_PNL_AA_022603_r
B217 (PNL): 200 escudos (US$2.40)
Red, purple, and yellowish-green. Front: Map of Fogo; bunch of grapes; doctor and writer Henrique Teixeira de Sousa; embossed pen nib. Back: Bunch of grapes; Pico do Fogo stratovolcano. No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: (TDLR). 124 x 63 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 5 de Julho de 2014. Signature 8. Intro: 23.12.2014.

Cape_Verde_BCV_1000_escudos_2014.07.05_B19a_PNL_EJ_818711_fCape_Verde_BCV_1000_escudos_2014.07.05_B19a_PNL_EJ_818711_r
B219 (PNL): 1,000 escudos (US$12)
Blue, purple, green, yellow, and pink. Front: Holographic patch with musical notes and bird in flight; vine; seashore; composer and musician Codé de Dona (real name Gregório Vaz) playing accordian; embossed bird. Back: Bird in flight; musician holding ferrinho, a musical instrument typical of funaná genre; sun and birds in flight. 4-mm windowed security thread with demetalized BCV 1000 and vine. Watermark: Codé de Dona with electrotype vine, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 136 x 66 mm.
a. 5 de Julho de 2014. Signature 8. Prefix EJ. Intro: 23.12.2014.

Cape_Verde_BCV_2000_escudos_2014.07.05_B20a_PNL_GM_736940_fCape_Verde_BCV_2000_escudos_2014.07.05_B20a_PNL_GM_736940_r
B220 (PNL): 2,000 escudos (US$24)
Peach, light blue, brownish-red, and green. Front: Feet as registration device; musical notes on staff; singer Cesária Évora; embossed turtle. Back: Violin; sun over ocean; feet. Holographic stripe with demetalized microphone and musical notes. 4-mm windowed security thread with demetalized BCV 2000 and microphone. Watermark: Cesária Évora with electrotype microphone, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 142 x 71 mm.
a. 5 de Julho de 2014. Signature 8. Prefix GM. Intro: 23.12.2014.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (http://www.banknoten.de), Thomas Augustsson, and David Bonczak.

Sri Lanka's central bank governor resigns

According to a press release dated 9 January 2015, "Mr. Ajith Nivard Cabraal, Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka has informed His Excellency the President that he wishes to resign from the post of Governor with immediate effect, in order that the new President may appoint a new Governor.

Mr. Cabraal was appointed as the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka from 1 July 2006 to 30 June, 2010 and was re-appointed for a further period of six years from 1 July 2010 to 30 June 2016."

The resignation of Cabraal means that new signature varieties for Sri Lanka's notes can be expected.

Ghana new date (01.07.2014) 20-cedi note (B148e) confirmed

Ghana_BOG_20_cedis_2014.07.01_B148e_P40_WB_4527824_fGhana_BOG_20_cedis_2014.07.01_B148e_P40_WB_4527824_r
Like B148d, but new date (1st JULY 2014). Prefix WB - WF.

Courtesy of Merjim Groen.

Switzerland new sig/date (2013) 10-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_10_francs_2013.00.00_P67_K_0971438_Studer-Jordan_sigs
10 francs, (20)13. Like P67, but new date and new signatures (Studer/Jordan).

Courtesy of Jürg Rindlisbacher.

Iran new 20,000-rial note confirmed

Iran_CBI_20000_rials_2014.12.15_B87a_PNL_46-22_872501_f
Iran_CBI_20000_rials_2014.12.15_B87a_PNL_46-22_872501_r

20,000 rials, no date. Like unlisted 20,000-rial introduced in 2009, but new building (Aghazadeh Mansion wind catchers in Abarkooh) depicted on back. Signatures Ali Tayebnia and Valiyollah Seyf. Intro: 15.12.2014. Read press release in Farsi.

Courtesy of Ms. Hamaseh Golestaneh, Christian Funke, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (http://www.banknoten.de).

Jordan new date (2014) 50-dinar note (B234h) confirmed

Jordan_CBJ_50_dinars_2014.00.00_B234h_P38_fJordan_CBJ_50_dinars_2014.00.00_B234h_P38_r
Like B234g, but new date (2014).

Courtesy of Wally Myers.

Rwanda new 2,000- and 5,000-franc notes confirmed

Rwanda_BNR_2000_francs_2014.00.00_B38a_PNL_AC_0731345_f
Rwanda_BNR_2000_francs_2014.00.00_B38a_PNL_AC_0731345_r

Rwanda_BNR_5000_francs_2014.00.00_B39a_PNL_AB_0939102_f
Rwanda_BNR_5000_francs_2014.00.00_B39a_PNL_AB_0939102_r

According to a press release dated 3 December 2014, the National Bank of Rwanda will issue new 2,000- and 5,000-franc notes as soon as the presidential decree is officially gazetted. The designs remain the same as the current notes (BNR B35 and B36), but the security features have been strengthened, and French has been removed from these notes. Now all text is in Kinyarwanda on the front, and English on the back.

UPDATE: The presidential decree was officially gazetted 16 December 2014.

Courtesy of Themanfromkigali.

Kazakhstan new 1,000-tenge note (B143a) confirmed

According to a press release dated 12 December 2014, the National Bank of Kazakhstan has introduced a regular issue 1,000-tenge note with new design.

Kazakhstan_NBK_1000_tenge_2014.00.00_B43a_PNL_AA_0000062_f
Kazakhstan_NBK_1000_tenge_2014.00.00_B43a_PNL_AA_0000062_r
B143 (PNL): 1,000 tenge (US$5.50)
Yellow, brown, orange, and blue. Front (vertical): National emblem; SPARK patch; flying doves and Kazakh Eli monument in Astana; flag. Back: Outline of Kazakhstan; mountains and landscape features of the Ustyurt Plateau. 4-mm wide StarChrome windowed security thread with demetalized 1000, tenge sign, and bird. Watermark: Mythic Samruk bird with electrotype 1000. Printer: (BFoNBK). 134 x 70 mm.
a. 2014. Signature 7. Prefix АА, AБ. Intro: 12.12.2014.

Courtesy of Arsentij Khonin, Cleo Phas, and Ömer Yalçinkaya.

Cape Verde new 500- and 5,000-escudo notes reported

According to an article on MacauHub dated 2 January 2015, the Bank of Cabo Verde has introduced new 500- and 5,000-escudo notes, thereby completing the new series of notes which also include 200, 1,000 and 2,000 escudo denominations reportedly introduced on 23 December 2014.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas and David Bonczak.

Mauritania new 1,000-ouguiya note (B123) confirmed

Mauritania_BCM_1000_ouguiya_2014.11.28_B25a_PNL_DA_1271188_A_fMauritania_BCM_1000_ouguiya_2014.11.28_B25a_PNL_DA_1271188_A_r
According to an Innovia Security press release dated 4 December 2014, persuant to Décret Nº 2136-2014 the Central Bank of Mauritania has issued a new 1,000-ouguiya banknote printed on Innovia's Guardian polymer substrate. The design is based upon the preceding paper note (B117), but is reduced in size to 140 x 70 mm. Both notes will circulate in parallel.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin and Thomas Augustsson.

Argentina new signature 100-peso note confirmed

Argentina_BCRA_100_pesos_2012.00.00_P358_K_00012753_sig
100 pesos, no date. Like P358b, but new signature for PRESIDENTE B.C.R.A (Juan Carlos Fábrega; 18.11.2013 - 01.10.2014) and unknown at right.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Peter Mosselberger.

Guinea new 5,000-franc font variety confirmed

Guinea_BCRG_5000_francs_2010.03.01_B34b_P44_KO_704315_fonts
5,000 francs, 1 MARS 2010. Like BCRG B34a, but 3-mm tall prefix letters in vertical serial number;
different font in horizontal serial number; w/o Cornerstone watermarks. Printer: Unknown. Prefix KO.

Courtesy of Andrew Roberts.

Denmark new date (2012) 500-kroner note confirmed

500 kroner, (20)12. Like P68, but new date. Prefix A4.

Courtesy of Tristan Williams.

Pakistan new signature 500-rupee note (B237i) confirmed

Pakistan_SBP_500_rupees_2014.00.00_B237i_P49Af_CW_8932058_fPakistan_SBP_500_rupees_2014.00.00_B237i_P49Af_CW_8932058_r
Like B237h, but new signature (Ashraf Mahmood Wathra). Prefix CW.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.