Europe

Romania new 100-leu commemorative note (BNP203) reported for 04.12.2019 introduction

According to a press release dated 27 November 2019, on 4 December 2019 the National Bank of Romania plans to introduce a 100-leu numismatic product to commemorate the anniversary of The Completion of the Great Union. The blue note measures 147 x 82 mm and is printed on polymer. It will be sold in leaflet for 150 lei.

Romania_BNR_100_lei_2019.12.04_BNP203a_P124_100B_0030000_fRomania_BNR_100_lei_2019.12.04_BNP203a_P124_100B_0030000_r

Ukraine new 50- and 200-hryvnia notes (B855 and B857) to be introduced late 2019, early 2020

According to a press release dated 26 November 2019, the National Bank of Ukraine plans to introduce a new 50-hryvnia note (B855) on 20 December 2019, followed by a new 200-hryvnia note (B857) on 25 February 2020, thereby completing the new note family which began with the introduction of the 100-hryvnia note (B856) introduced in 2015.

Ukraine_NBU_50_hryven_2019.00.00_B855a_PNL_fUkraine_NBU_200_hryven_2019.00.00_B857a_PNL_f

“The updated banknotes inherit the design features of the new-generation 20-, 100-, 500-, and 1,000-hryvnia bills. They retain the main images depicted on the previously issued 50- and 200-hryvnia bills and are similar in size and color range.

At the same time, both of the upgraded banknotes carry enhanced security features. In particular, the bills have more pronounced embossed elements, including features for visually impaired individuals. The UV and IR protection of the bills has been improved. The serial number, printed in black using a font where characters vary in height, runs vertically down the right edge of the bill’s reverse.

In addition, two innovative security features have been added to the upgraded 200-hryvnia banknote and the new-generation 100-, 500-, and 1,000-hryvnia bills. One of these security features is an optically variable element known as SPARK, which is made in the shape of a stylized image of a water lily, and changes colors as the banknote is tilted. The other security element is a window thread that features the denomination and the hryvnia symbol. The thread produces a dynamic light effect where the background image moves in a different direction as the banknote is tilted.”

Courtesy of Igor Nosenko (Instagram account).

Czech Republic announces new 100-koruna commemorative note to be issued in 2022

According to a press release dated 19 November 2019, the Czech National Bank plans to introduce a new 100-koruna note (194 x 84 mm) in 2022 commemorating the establishment of the Czechoslovak koruna by featuring Karel Engliš, the most important financier of the First Republic.

Norway new 1,000-krone note confirmed introduced 14.11.2019

According to a press release, the Norges Bank has introduced the new 1,000-krone note on 14 November 2019. This completes the new series of notes from Norway.

Norway_NB_1000_kroner_2019.00.00_B661a_P57_4201199734_fNorway_NB_1000_kroner_2019.00.00_B661a_P57_4201199734_r

Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen.

Scotland BOS new 20-pound polymer notes unveiled

According to an article in The Sunday Post dated 7 November 2019 and an article on YourMoney.com, the Bank of Scotland has unveiled the designs of two new 20-pound notes dated 1st June 2019, the fronts of which both feature a portrait of poet Sir Walter Scott. The back of the regular issue 20-pound note depicts the Forth Bridge while the back of the commemorative note depicts the Queensferry Crossing. Both notes are printed by De La Rue on polymer (Guardian) substrate and measure 139 x 73 mm, consistent with the new reduced-size notes from the Bank of England and other UK banks also expected to be introduced in early 2020.

Scotland_BOS_20_pounds_2019.06.01_BNLas_PNLs_AA_123456_fScotland_BOS_20_pounds_2019.06.01_BNLs_PNLs_AA_123456_rScotland_BOS_20_pounds_2020.00.00_BNL_PNL_r

Bulgaria new 50-lev note (B238) confirmed introduced 01.11.2019

According to a press release dated 18 October 2019, on 1 November 2019 the Bulgarian National Bank planned to introduce a new 50-lev note (B238) like the preceding issues, but with enhanced security features and tactile marks for the visually impaired.

Bulgaria_BNB_50_levs_2019.00.00_B238a_PNL_LA_87142448_fBulgaria_BNB_50_levs_2019.00.00_B238a_PNL_LA_87142448_r

Courtesy of Andrian Chekanov, Robert Mol, and bgbgbg2008-2008 on eBay.

Ukraine new 1,000-hryvnia note (B859) confirmed introduced 25.10.2019

Information on new note.

Ukraine_NBU_1000_hryven_2019.00.00_B859a_PNL_AA_2496524_fUkraine_NBU_1000_hryven_2019.00.00_B859a_PNL_AA_2496524_r

Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko (Omer Yalcinkaya Collection Shop on eBay).

Albania new 200-lek note (B322) confirmed

Albania_BES_200_leke_2017.00.00_B322as_PNLs_AA_0707902_f
Albania_BES_200_leke_2017.00.00_B322as_PNLs_AA_0707902_r

Courtesy of Andrea Bossi.

Albania new 5,000-lek note (B326) confirmed

Albania_BES_5000_leke_2017.00.00_B326as_PNLs_NB_6990097_f
Albania_BES_5000_leke_2017.00.00_B326as_PNLs_NB_6990097_r

Courtesy of Andrea Bossi.

United Kingdom new 20-pound polymer note (B205) reported for introduction 20.02.2020

According to a press release dated 10 October 2019, the Bank of England has unveiled the new 20-pound polymer note (B205) due to be introduced on 20 February 2020.

United_Kingdom_BOE_20_pounds_2020.02.20_B205a_PNL_AC12_057574_f
United_Kingdom_BOE_20_pounds_2020.02.20_B205a_PNL_AC12_057574_r

Poland new 19-złoty commemorative note (BNP823) confirmed introduced 02.10.2019

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Polska Wytwórnia Papierów Wartościowych (Polish Security Printing Works), the National Bank of Poland issued up to 55,000 new 19-złoty banknotes beginning on 2 October 2019.

Poland_NBP_19_zlotych_2019.01.25_BNP823a_PNL_RP_0053050_fPoland_NBP_19_zlotych_2019.01.25_BNP823a_PNL_RP_0053050_r

Courtesy of Jan Boguś.

Scotland Royal Bank of Scotland new date (04.04.2017) 20-pound note confirmed

Scotland_RBS_20_pounds_2017.04.04_P354_C-70_125255_f
Scotland_RBS_20_pounds_2017.04.04_P354_C-70_125255_r
Like P354f, but new date (4th APRIL 2017). Prefix C/70.

Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko.

European Monetary Union new signature 100-euro note (B105n3) confirmed

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_100_euros_2002.00.00_B105n3_P5n_12144250119_fEuropean_Monetary_Union_ECB_100_euros_2002.00.00_B105n3_P5n_12144250119_r
Like B105n2, but new signature (Draghi).

Courtesy of Mikhail Plakhov.

Albania unveils new banknote family (B322 - B327) to be introduced 2019 - 2022

On 12 September 2019, the Bank of Albania unveiled a new series of banknotes that are like the preceding issues, but with refreshed designs and colors, as well as new security features. Although not shown at the unveiling, the new 10,000-lek note is expected to have the theme of the national anthem and its author, poet Aleksandër Stavre Drenova, known by the pen name Asdreni. Existing notes will continue to circulate in parallel as the six denominations are introduced into circulation at staggered intervals from 2019 to 2022.

Albania_BES_200_leke_2017.00.00_B322as_PNLs_AA_0000000_f
Albania_BES_200_leke_2017.00.00_B322as_PNLs_AA_0000000_r

Albania_BES_500_leke_2017.00.00_B323as_PNLs_AA_0000000_f
Albania_BES_500_leke_2017.00.00_B323as_PNLs_AA_0000000_r

Albania_BES_1000_leke_2017.00.00_B324as_PNLs_AA_0000000_f
Albania_BES_1000_leke_2017.00.00_B324as_PNLs_AA_0000000_r

Albania_BES_2000_leke_2017.00.00_B325as_PNLs_AA_0000000_f
Albania_BES_2000_leke_2017.00.00_B325as_PNLs_AA_0000000_r

Albania_BES_5000_leke_2017.00.00_B326as_PNLs_NA_0000000_f
Albania_BES_5000_leke_2017.00.00_B326as_PNLs_NA_0000000_r

Courtesy of Vunhan Vuong, Don Cleveland, and Marco Pache.

Switzerland new 100-franc note (B358) confirmed introduced 12.09.2019

According to a press release dated 3 September 2019, the Swiss National Bank planned to introduce the new 100-franc note on 12 September 2019, bringing the issuance of the ninth banknote series to a close. The 100-franc note focuses on Switzerland’s humanitarian tradition, represented by the key motif of water.

Switzerland_SNB_100_francs_2017.00.00_B358a_PNL_17_B_0295552_f Switzerland_SNB_100_francs_2017.00.00_B358a_PNL_17_B_0295552_r

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger, Aidan Work, Bogdanov Ivan, and Marco Pache.

Poland to issue 20-złoty commemorative note in August 2020

According to the Schedule of Issue of Polish Collector Items and Commemorative Coins for 2020, the National Bank of Poland plans to introduce a 20-złoty note in August 2020 to commemorate the Battle of Warsaw 1920.

Courtesy of Chaopiaobaike.

Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble numismatic product (BNP216) confirmed introduced 20.08.2019

On 20 August 2019, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced a 1-ruble banknotes commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Jassy–Kishinev Operation, a Soviet offensive against Axis forces, which took place in Eastern Romania from 20 to 29 August 1944 during World War II. 1,500 notes were packaged in folders.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2019.00.00_BNP216a_PNL_MA_0001475_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2019.00.00_BNP216a_PNL_MA_0001475_r
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2019.00.00_BNP216a_PNL_folder_1

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.

Northern Ireland's Ulster Bank new 20-pound note (B941) design unveiled

According to a BusinessFirst article dated 20 August 2019, Ulster Bank has unveiled the design of its new 20-pound polymer note. Building on the design theme of “Living in Nature,” this vertical note focuses on Northern Ireland as a “dwelling place,” and features “street entertainers and their appreciative audience, reflecting local music and culture, as well as tiles, brickwork and patterns inspired by NI’s ubiquitous red-brick tenement buildings. Other elements of the note are drawn from the ornate decoration found on and in famous public buildings, corporate architecture and domestic homes in Derry, Belfast and other cities in Northern Ireland. The note is also incorporating Derry~Londonderry’s much-loved Hallowe’en celebrations into the security features of the note – under a UV light, skeletons and Leisler’s bat – the largest type of bat in Ireland – can be seen.”

2008UB002

Courtesy of Bogdanov Ivan, Богданов Иван (bonistics.org).

Romania new 20-leu note planned for introduction in 2020

According to a press release dated 31 July 2019, the National Bank of Romania plans to introduce a 20-leu note in 2020 depicting Ecaterinei Teodoroiu.

Courtesy of Daniel Stoian.

Belarus new 5- and 10-ruble notes (B144 and B145) confirmed introduced 20.05.2019

These new 5- and 10-ruble notes introduced on 20 May 2019 are like the preceding issues, but dated 2019, without signatures, printed by Goznak, with additional watermark features and wider security threads.

Belarus_NBRB_5_rubles_2019.00.00_B144a_PNL_TA_4403280_f
Belarus_NBRB_5_rubles_2019.00.00_B144a_PNL_TA_4403280_r

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Belarus_NBRB_10_rubles_2019.00.00_B145a_PNL_PB_7059315_r

Courtesy of Ivan Bogdanov (bonistics.org) and Thomas Augustsson.

Bank of England new 50-pound polymer note to be introduced 2021

According to a press release dated 15 July 2019, the Bank of England has revealed that Alan Turing and his work will appear on the back of the new 50-pound polymer note to be introduced by the end of 2021.

50-concept

Turkey replaces central bank governor Çetinkaya

According to an article in The Guardian dated 3 July 2019, Turkey has fired Murat Çetinkaya, governor of the Central Bank of Turkey from April 2016, replacing him with deputy Murat Uysal.

Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.

Albania new family reported to be introduced beginning in late 2019

According to an Invest in Albania article dated 3 July 2019, the Bank of Albania plans to introduce a new family of banknotes starting with new 200- and 5,000-lek notes in the fall of 2019, and eventually including 500-, 1,000-, 2,000-, and 10,000-lek notes. All notes will have the same themes as existing issues (the new denomination of 10,000 leke will have the theme of the national anthem and its author, the poet Asdreni), but completely redesigned and with enhanced security features.

European Monetary Union nominates Christine Lagarde as next president

According to a CNBC article dated 2 July 2019, Christine Lagarde, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, has been nominated to become the next president of the European Central Bank, succeeding Mario Draghi if approved.

Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.

United Kingdom chapter of The Banknote Book is now available

United Kingdom cover
The United Kingdom 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 Bank of England from 1725 to present, the Treasury from 1914 to 1927, the British Military Authority in 1943, and the British Armed Forces from 1946 to 1972. Published 27.06.2019.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • 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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Poland new sig/date (14.12.2018) 100-złoty note (B862b) confirmed

Poland_NBP_100_zlotych_2018.12.14_B862b_P186_DW_4812435_f
Poland_NBP_100_zlotych_2018.12.14_B862b_P186_DW_4812435_r
Like B862a, but new date (14 GRUDNIA 2018), new signatures, and transparent protective layer front/back. Intro: 31.05.2019.

Press release.

Courtesy of Sabine Leuenberger.

United Kingdom new 50-pound note to be printed on polymer

According to a press release dated 4 June 2019, the Bank of England has awarded the contract for supplying polymer substrate for its new 50-pound note jointly to De La Rue (Safeguard) and CCL Secure (Guardian). No word on when the new notes will be introduced.

European Monetary Union new 100- and 200-euro notes (B112, B113) confirmed introduced 28.05.2019

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_100_euros_2019.00.00_B112r3_PNL_RB_4584749036_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_100_euros_2019.00.00_B112r3_PNL_RB_4584749036_r

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_200_euros_2019.00.00_B113u3_PNL_UD_9053928072_fEuropean_Monetary_Union_ECB_200_euros_2019.00.00_B113u3_PNL_UD_9053928072_r

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Turkey new signature 20-lira note (B302c) confirmed

Turkey_TCMB_20_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B302c_P224_D023_744025_f
Turkey_TCMB_20_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B302c_P224_D023_744025_r
Like B302b, but new signatures (Murat Çetinkaya and Uğur Namık Küçük). Prefix D023. Intro: 24.12.2018.

Courtesy of Paul Nahmias.

Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble numismatic product (BNP215) confirmed

On 12 April 2019, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced a 1-ruble banknotes commemorating the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the left-bank Transnistria from the Nazi invaders. 1,500 notes were packaged in folders.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2019.00.00_BNP215a_PNL_KT_0001171_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2019.00.00_BNP215a_PNL_KT_0001171_r

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Belarus new 5- and 10-ruble notes reported for 20.05.2019 introduction

According to a press release dated 30 April 2019, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus plans to introduce new 5- and 10-ruble notes on 20 May 2019. The new notes are like the preceding issues, but dated 2019, without signatures, printed by Goznak, with additional watermark features and wider security threads.

Courtesy of Ivan Bogdanov.

Bulgaria chapter of The Banknote Book is now available

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

This 64-page catalog covers notes issued by the Bulgarian National Bank from 1885 to present, and the Thrace Interallied Administration in 1919. Published 19.04.2019.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • 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

Romania new date (2019) 1-leu note (B286b) confirmed

Romania_BNR_1_leu_2018.01.01_B286a_P117_197I_9455446_f
Romania_BNR_1_leu_2018.01.01_B286a_P117_197I_9455446_r
This denomination has not yet been confirmed with prefix beginning with 18.

Courtesy of Catalin Vasilache.

Romania new date (2019) 100-leu note (B290b) confirmed

Romania_BNR_100_lei_2018.01.01_B290b_P121_194H_7075485_fRomania_BNR_100_lei_2018.01.01_B290b_P121_194H_7075485_r
Like B290a, but new date (2019).

Courtesy of Marius Rosca (Pecunia Auctions SRL) and Catalin Vasilache.

Switzerland new 1,000-franc note (B360) confirmed introduced 13.03.2019

According to a press release dated 5 March 2019, the Swiss National Bank began issuing the new 1,000-franc note (B360) on 13 March 2019.

Switzerland_SNB_1000_francs_2017.00.00_B360a_P80_17_A_7441492_f Switzerland_SNB_1000_francs_2017.00.00_B360a_P80_17_A_7441492_r

“The inspiration behind the new banknote series is ‘The many facets of Switzerland’. Each denomination depicts a typically Swiss characteristic, which is then illustrated graphically using a range of elements. The 1000-franc note focuses on Switzerland’s communicative flair, as expressed by language, the note’s key motif. Core design elements are the hand and the globe, which appear on every denomination in the new series.
As with the banknotes currently in circulation, the ninth series consists of six denominations; the colour scheme, too, remains the same. Accordingly, the main colour of the new 1000- franc note is purple. However, the format has been modified – the new notes are smaller and thus easier to handle. The innovative combination of complex security features and sophisticated design provides state-of-the-art anti-counterfeiting protection.”

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Ukraine new sig/date (2018) 500-hryvnia note (B855b) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_500_hryven_2018.00.00_B855b_P127_AL_2426447_f
Ukraine_NBU_500_hryven_2018.00.00_B855b_P127_AL_2426447_r
Like B855a, but new signature (Yakiv Smolii) and new date (2018).

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko.

Northern Ireland Bank of Ireland new 5-pound note (B136a) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_BOI_5_pounds_2017.05.31_B136a_PNL_AQ_037077_f
Northern_Ireland_BOI_5_pounds_2017.05.31_B136a_PNL_AQ_037077_r

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

Northern Ireland Bank of Ireland new 10-pound note (B137a) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_BOI_10_pounds_2017.05.31_B137a_PNL_AV_299777_f
Northern_Ireland_BOI_10_pounds_2017.05.31_B137a_PNL_AV_299777_r

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

Northern Ireland Danske Bank new 10-pound note (B503a) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_DB_10_pounds_2017.07.06_B503a_PNL_AB_4529549_f
Northern_Ireland_DB_10_pounds_2017.07.06_B503a_PNL_AB_4529549_r

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new 5-pound note (B939a) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_5_pounds_2018.04.12_B939a_PNL_AC_026801_f Northern_Ireland_UBL_5_pounds_2018.04.12_B939a_PNL_AC_026801_r

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new 10-pound note (B940a) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_10_pounds_2018.04.12_B940a_PNL_AH_809191_f Northern_Ireland_UBL_10_pounds_2018.04.12_B940a_PNL_AH_809191_r

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Gibraltar new 10-shilling numismatic product (BNP102a) confirmed

To commemorate World Tourism in 2018, the Government of Gibraltar created an official replica of the 10-shilling note of 1934 (B112) with a nominal legal tender value of 50 pence, and sold by the Gibraltar Philatelic Bureau for £2.50.

Gibraltar_GOV_10_shillings_2018.00.00_BNP102a_PNL_8K_0996197_f
Gibraltar_GOV_10_shillings_2018.00.00_BNP102a_PNL_8K_0996197_r

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Artem Shevchenko.

Ukraine new sig/date (2018) 1- and 2-hryvnia notes confirmed

On 14 March 2018, the National Bank of Ukraine announced that it would stop issuing banknotes of 1, 2, 5, and 10 hryven, and would gradually replace worn notes with coins of the same denominations. However, the bank has since sold 60-note sheets of legal tender 1- and 2-hryven notes dated 2018 with signature 10. Any such individual notes have been cut from sheets.

Ukraine_NBU_1_hryvnia_2018.00.00_B844c_P116A_IOK_2682051_f
Ukraine_NBU_1_hryvnia_2018.00.00_B844c_P116A_IOK_2682051_r
Ukraine_NBU_2_hryvni_2018.00.00_B845e_P117_IOK_5638274_f
Ukraine_NBU_2_hryvni_2018.00.00_B845e_P117_IOK_5638274_r

Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov (mbank_notes on eBay).

Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble commemorative note (B227) reportedly introduced 15.02.2019

According to a press release, on 15 February 2019, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced a 1-ruble banknotes commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. 1,500 pieces were issued into circulation.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B227a_PNL_f

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and S. Hakim Hamdani.

Hungary new sig/date (2019) 10,000-forint note (B591c) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_10000_forint_2019.00.00_B591c_P206_HA_1999411_f
Like B591b, but new date (2019) and new signatures. Prefix HA.

Courtesy of Ilkka Malmi.

Romania new 5-leu note (B287a) confirmed

Romania_BNR_5_lei_2018.01.01_B287a_PNL_182J_0743990_fRomania_BNR_5_lei_2018.01.01_B287a_PNL_182J_0743990_r
Like B279, but with the new coat of arms and a new date.

Courtesy of Catalin Vasilache.

Czech Republic new 100-korun numismatic product (BNP101a) confirmed

The Česká Národní Banka held a competition to design a new 100-korun banknote featuring Alois Rasin to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Czechoslovak koruna. On 1 March 2018, the bank announced its decision to approve the following design submitted by painter Eva Hašková. The new note was sold at a premium to face value beginning on 31 January 2019.

Czech_Republic_CNB_100_korun_2019.00.00_BNP101a_PNL_RH02_000955_fCzech_Republic_CNB_100_korun_2019.00.00_BNP101a_PNL_RH02_000955_r

Courtesy of Kevin Klauss and Manfred Dietl.

Northern Ireland First Trust Bank to cease banknote issuance on 30.06.2022

According to a press release dated February 2019, First Trust Bank will cease issuing its own banknotes and will be replacing them with Bank of England notes as they are withdrawn from circulation. The First Trust Bank notes can continue to be used until 30 June 2022, after which time they will cease to be legal tender.

Northern_Ireland_FTB_100_pounds_1998.01.01_B808a_P139b_AA_000082_f
Northern_Ireland_FTB_100_pounds_1998.01.01_B808a_P139b_AA_000082_r

Hungary new 500-forint note (B587.5) confirmed introduced 01.02.2019

According to a press release dated 3 July 2018, the new 500-forint notes will enter circulation on 1 February 2019, although they were declared legal tender from 4 July 2018.

Hungary_MNB_500_forint_2018.00.00_B587.5a_PNL_EG_4767220_fHungary_MNB_500_forint_2018.00.00_B587.5a_PNL_EG_4767220_r
Like B581, but new color scheme and improved security features.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Claudio Marana, and Ilkka Malmi.

Jersey new signature 10-pound note (B129b) confirmed

Jersey_SOJ_10_pounds_2010.04.29_B129b_B34_DD_000301_f
Like B129a, but new signature (Laura Rowley). Prefix DD.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Czech Republic new 100-korun commemorative note (B129a) confirmed

This 100-korun banknote commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Czechoslovak koruna.

Czech_Republic_CNB_100_korun_2019.00.00_B129a_PNL_M02_000040_f
Czech_Republic_CNB_100_korun_2019.00.00_B129a_PNL_M02_000040_r

Courtesy of Nick Meister and Kevin Klauss.

Romania chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 65-page catalog covers notes issued by the Ministerul de Finanțe (Ministry of Finance) from 1877 to 1952, the Banca Nationala a Romaniei (National Bank of Romania) from 1880 to present, the Banca Generalâ Romȃnă (Romanian General Bank) in 1917, the Oesterreichisch-Ungarische Bank (Austro-Hungarian Bank) in 1919, and the Comandamentul Armatei Rosii (Red Army Command) in 1944. Published 04.01.2019.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • 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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Armenia new 1,000-, 2,000-, and 5,000-dram notes (B319 - B321) confirmed










Courtesy of Tod Hunt.

Ukraine new 100-hryvnia numismatic product (BNP808a) confirmed

On 17 December 2018, the National Bank of Ukraine introduced a souvenir 100-hryvnia note commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Ukrainian Revolution. 100,000 notes were offered for sale at 70 hryven each.




Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Bulgaria new 100-lev note confirmed introduced 28.12.2018

This new 100-lev note is the first denomination in a new series the preceding issues, but with new security features, including the denomination in SPARK, a revised holographic stripe, improved watermark, and diagonal lines at left/right front as a tactile feature for the sight-impaired. Preceding issues will continue to circulate in parallel.




Courtesy of Krassy Dimitrov, Dimiter Monev, and Aditya Kulkarni.

Romania new coat of arms/date (2018) 10-leu note (B288a) confirmed


Like P119, but new date (1 ianuarie 2018) and new coat of arms.

Courtesy of (http://ebancnote.ro).

Romania new 100-leu numismatic product (BNP202a) confirmed introduced 01.12.2018

According to a press release dated 29 November 2018, on 1 December the National Bank of Romania introduced a 100-leu polymer note commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Great Union. The front depicts King Ferdinand I and Queen Maria, and the Great National Assembly in Alba Iulia, on 1 December 1918. The back depicts the arrival of the royal cortege in Bucharest, on 1 December 1918, and part of the mace of King Ferdinand I, together with four women in folk costumes typical of each united Romanian province: Bessarabia, Romania, Transylvania and Bukovina. 10,000 notes will be sold with leaflet for 150 lei each.



Courtesy of Daniel Mendea, Mocanu Alexandru, Radu Andron, Hans-Ludwig Besler, Claudio Marana, Mihai Cristian Vulpe, Catalin Vasilache, Ștefan Vasiliță (www.ebancnote.ro).

Armenia new 10,000-, 20,000-, and 50,000-dram notes (B322 - B324) confirmed










Courtesy of Numisnota (http://numisnota.eu).

Guernsey new 20-pound WWI commemorative note (B168a) confirmed introduced 08.11.2018

Introduced 8 November 2018, this 20-pound note commemorates the 100th anniversary of World War I. It is like the preceding 2012 commemorative issue, but with the seal of Bailiwick surrounded by poppy flowers instead of the Diamond Jubilee seal flanked by laurels of olive branches, and TG/W (The Great War) prefix.



Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Max Keller.

Czech Republic new 100-korun commemorative to be introduced 31.01.2019

According to a Czech-language press release dated 6 November 2018, the following new 100-korun banknote commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Czechoslovak koruna is like the regular issue of 2018, but with ČNB / 1919 / 100 LET / Kč / 2019 overprinted at lower left front. On 31 January 2019, Česká Národní Banka will place 200,000 notes into circulation at face value, with a limit of three notes per person daily.



Courtesy of Evzen Sknouril.

Northern Ireland's Danske and Bank of Ireland new 5- and 10-pound polymer notes reported for February 2019

According to a BBC News article dated 6 November 2018, both Danske and Bank of Ireland plan to introduce new 5- and 10-pound polymer banknotes in Northern Ireland in February 2019. The new notes will be like the current notes, but the substrate changed from paper to polymer.




Courtesy of Don Ludwig and Ray Allen.

England seeks suggestions for scientist to appear on new 50-pound note

The Bank of England is seeking public input on the design of the new 50-pound note,

Courtesy of Chris Huff and Christopher Nield.

Czech Republic new 100-korun note (B127a) confirmed

According to a press release dated 5 September 2018, the Czech National Bank has introduced new 100- and 200-korun notes like the preceding issues, but they have enhanced anti-counterfeiting protection: addition of Omron rings; a 3-mm wide, puce-to-green windowed security thread with different demetalized text; electrotype element added to watermark; plus green and orange fluorescent ink.

According to contributor Kevin Klauss in Prague, the new notes are not widely released for circulation as there are some problems with automats recognizing these notes. While you can get 100-korun notes at the central bank, the tellers are instructed to give one piece per customer per day. The 200-korun note is not currently available at the National Bank in Prague.




Courtesy of Kevin Klauss.


Royal Bank of Scotland unveils design of new 20-pound polymer note

According to a press release dated 24 October 2018, the Royal Bank of Scotland has unveiled the design of its first 20-pound polymer note which features the historic Scottish entrepreneur Kate Cranston on front, and features red squirrels and blaeberry fruit on back. It also includes extracts from 16th century Scottish poet Mark Alexander Boyd’s work, Cupid and Venus. The 20-pound note printed by De La Rue on Safeguard substrate is the third denomination in the “Fabric of Nature” series, and is planned for introduction in 2020.



Courtesy of Ray Allen, David Hunter, Don Ludwig, and Christopher Nield.

Bank of England announces new 50-pound note to be polymer

According to a press release dated 13 October 2018, the Bank of England confirms that it intends to introduce a 50-pound note printed on polymer substrate some time after the new 20-pound note is introduced in 2020.

Courtesy of Christopher Nield, Mark Irwin, and Don Ludwig.

Norway new 50-krone note confirmed introduced 18.10.2018

According to the Norges Bank, the new 50-krone note was introduced on 18 October 2018. The preceding issue will circulate in parallel for one year before being withdrawn.


Green. Front: Norwegian text; SPARK Orbital rectangle; seagull in flight; Utvær lighthouse in Sogn og Fjordane, Norway’s westernmost point. Back: Norwegian text; lighthouse on the horizon (pixel motif); 1.6 metres per second (cubic pattern); light breeze and gentle waves (organic pattern); Ursa Major constellation; nautical chart showing the classification of lighthouses. Windowed security thread with holographic anchor chain and solid security thread with demetalized NB 50. Watermark: Atlantic puffin head in profile with electrotype 50. Printer: (Oberthur Technologies). 126 x 70 mm.
a. 2018. Sig. Øystein Olsen/Leif Veggum. Intro: 18.10.2018.

Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen and Francisco Alcover.

Norway new 500-krone note confirmed introduced 18.10.2018

According to the Norges Bank, the new 500-krone note was introduced on 18 October 2018. The preceding issue will circulate in parallel for one year before being withdrawn.


Orange. Front: Norwegian text; SPARK Orbital rectangle; Colin Archer’s rescue vessel, RS 14 “Stavanger;” Atlantic puffin. Back: Norwegian text; oil platform on the horizon (pixel motif); 13.9 metres per second (cubic pattern); high wind with sea heaps up, white foam from breaking waves (organic pattern); North Sea gas pipeline network; ammonite fossil shell. Windowed security thread with holographic anchor chain and solid security thread with demetalized NB 500. Watermark: Atlantic puffin head in profile with electrotype 500. Printer: (Oberthur Technologies). 147 x 70 mm.
a. 2018. Sig. Øystein Olsen/Leif Veggum. Intro: 18.10.2018.

Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen and Franciso Alcover.

Denmark new date (2016) 200-krone note (B937f) confirmed


Like B937e, but new date (2016). Prefix A9.

Courtesy of Frede Hansen.

Romania new coat of arms/date (2018) 200-leu note (B291a) confirmed


Like P122, but new date (1 ianuarie 2018) and new coat of arms.

Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko, Don Ludwig and Stane Štraus (www.polymernotes.org).

Moldova reportedly to introduce polymer notes in 2019

According to a Prime news report dated 3 October 2018, the National Bank of Moldova plans to introduce polymer banknotes as early as 2019.

Courtesy of Don Ludwig and Stane Štraus (www.polymernotes.org).

Ukraine unveils revised 20-hryvnia note (B856) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_20_hryven_2018.00.00_B856a_PNL_ЮA_7434278_f
Ukraine_NBU_20_hryven_2018.00.00_B856a_PNL_ЮA_7434278_r
On 17 July 2018, the National Bank of Ukraine unveiled a revised 20-hryvnia note to be introduced into circulation on 25 September 2018.

Courtesy of Igor Nosenko (http://mycollection.net.ua/) and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Belgium chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 57-page catalog covers notes issued by the Société Générale (General Company) from 1822 to 1915, the Banque de Belgique (Bank of Belgium) in 1835, the Banque Liégeoise et Caisse d’Épargnes (Liége Bank and Savings) in 1835, the Banque de Flandre (Bank of Flanders) in 1841, the Banque Nationale de Belgique (National Bank of Belgium) from 1851 to 1998, the Banque d’Emission à Bruxelles (Bank of Issue in Brussels) in 1941, and the Royaume de Belgique Trésorerie (Kingdom of Belgium Treasury) from 1948 to 1966. Published 28.09.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Belarus announces modified notes to be introduced in 2019 and 2020

According to a press release dated 20 September 2018, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus announced modifications to banknotes to be introduced in 2019 and 2020. They will retain the basic design, color, and size of existing issues, but the 50-ruble note will have its denomination spelled in accordance to modern Belarusian spelling rules, and all notes will have captions added to identify architectural features and dates reflecting their introduction (2019 for 5 and 10 rubles; 2020 for 20 and 50 rubles).

Courtesy fo Богданов Иван (http://bonistics.org).

Sweden announces De La Rue to print banknotes for next three years

According to a press release dated 20 September 2018, De La Rue has been appointed by Sveriges Riksbank to print Swedish krona banknotes for the next three years, with an option to extend for a further four years at De La Rue’s printing site in the United Kingdom.

European Monetary Union unveils new 100- and 200-euro notes (B112, B113) scheduled for 28.05.2019 introduction

On 17 September 2018, the European Central Bank unveiled the new 100- and 200-euro notes scheduled to be introduced on 28 May 2019, thereby completing the Europa series. The new notes feature a satellite hologram and an enhanced OVI “emerald number” with € symbols at lower left front. They are also a different size than the preceding issues.

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_100_euros_2019.00.00_B112_PNL_SC_3002913606_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_100_euros_2019.00.00_B112_PNL_SC_3002913606_r

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_200_euros_2019.00.00_B113_PNL_SD_8005927907_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_200_euros_2019.00.00_B113_PNL_SD_8005927907_r

Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.

Guernsey chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 33-page catalog covers notes issued by Bishop De Jersey & Company from 1808 to 1809, Macculloch, Allaire, Bonamy & Company from 1808 to 1809, Guernsey Banking Company from 1827 to 1923, Guernsey Commercial Banking Company from 1835 to 1921, Southern District Banking Company in 1838, and States of Guernsey from 1816 to present. Published 14.09.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

Subscribe
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Czech Republic new 200-korun note (B128) confirmed

According to a press release dated 5 September 2018, the Czech National Bank has introduced new 100- and 200-korun notes like the preceding issues, but they have enhanced anti-counterfeiting protection: addition of Omron rings; a 3-mm wide, puce-to-green windowed security thread with different demetalized text; electrotype element added to watermark; plus green and orange fluorescent ink.

Czech_Republic_CNB_200_korun_2018.00.00_B128_PNL_H98_754321_fCzech_Republic_CNB_200_korun_2018.00.00_B128_PNL_H98_754321_r


Poland new 20-złoty commemorative note (BNP822) confirmed

According to a press release dated 5 July 2018, the National Bank of Poland introduced 50,000 new 20-złoty commemorative notes on 31 August 2018 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of independence.

Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2018.02.13_BNP822a_PNL_RP_0023456_fPoland_NBP_20_zlotych_2018.02.13_BNP822a_PNL_RP_0023456_r

Courtesy of Jan Boguś.

Switzerland new 200-franc note (B359) confirmed

According to a press release dated 15 August 2018, the Swiss National Bank will begin issuing a new 200-franc note on 22 August 2018. Existing notes of the same denomination will continue to circulate in parallel. The new brown 200-franc note focuses on Switzerland’s scientific expertise, as expressed by matter, the note’s key motif.

Switzerland_SNB_200_francs_2016.00.00_B359a_P79_16_H_8167862_ffSwitzerland_SNB_200_francs_2016.00.00_B359a_P79_16_H_8167862_rr
Confirmed with signatures 80 (Jean Studer and Thomas Jordan), 82 (Jean Studer and Fritz Zurbrügg).

The next denomination, the 1,000-franc note, will be presented on 5 March 2019 and enter circulation on 13 March 2019. The last denomination in the new series, the 100-franc note, is to be issued in autumn 2019.

Courtesy of Jürg Rindlisbacher, Christof Zellweger, Marco Pache, Max Keller, Sabine Leuenberger ().

Northern Ireland new sig/date (04.04.2017) 10-pound note (B937e) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_10_pounds_2017.04.04_B937e_P341a_L_4850837_f
Like B937d, but new signature (Les Matheson) and new date (4th APRIL 2017). Prefix L.

Courtesy of Stefan Rombaut.

Northern Ireland new sig/date (04.04.2017) 20-pound note (B938h) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_20_pounds_2017.04.04_B938h_P342_Q_0875774_f
Like B938g, but new signature (Les Matheson) and new date (4th APRIL 2017). Prefix Q.

Courtesy of Stefan Rombaut.

Poland new sig/date (08.12.2017) 50-złoty note (B861b) confirmed

Poland_NBP_50_zlotych_2017.12.08_B861b_P185_AT_4994744_fPoland_NBP_50_zlotych_2017.12.08_B861b_P185_AT_4994744_r
Like B861a, but new signature and new date (8 GRUDNIA 2017). Prefix AT.

Courtesy of Krzysztof Wojtowicz.


Romania new coat of arms/date (2018) 50-leu note (B289a) confirmed

Romania_BNR_50_lei_2018.01.01_PNL_184J_2316040_fRomania_BNR_50_lei_2018.01.01_PNL_184J_2316040_r
Like P120, but new date and new coat of arms.

Courtesy of Marius Rosca (Pecunia Auctions/www.ebancnote.ro).

Poland new sig/date 50-złoty note reported for 16.07.2018 introduction

According to a press release dated 5 July 2018, the National Bank of Poland plans to introduce a revised 50-złoty note on 16 July 2018. It appears this is merely a signature and date variety of B861, not a new type.

Courtesy of Jan Boguś.


Jersey new signature 1-pound note (B127b) confirmed

Jersey_SOJ_1_pound_2018.00.00_B127b_P32_HE_001302_fJersey_SOJ_1_pound_2018.00.00_B127b_P32_HE_001302_r
Like B127a, but new signature (Richard W. Bell). Prefix HE. Intro: 2018.

Courtesy of Sabine Leuenberger () and Dennis Zammit.

Jersey new signatue 50-pound note (B131b) confirmed

Jersey_SOJ_50_pounds_2018.00.00_B131b_P36_AD_401931_fJersey_SOJ_50_pounds_2018.00.00_B131b_P36_AD_401931_r
Like B131a, but new signature (Richard W. Bell). Prefix AD. Intro: 2018.

Courtesy of Sabine Leuenberger () and Dennis Zammit.

Russia new 100-ruble FIFA commemorative note (B840) confirmed introduced 22.05.2018

This 100-ruble note commemorates the World Cup held in Russia from 14 June to 15 July 2018, and run by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (French: International Federation of Association Football, FIFA).

Russia_CBR_100_rubles_2018.00.00_B840as_PNLs_AA_000000000_fRussia_CBR_100_rubles_2018.00.00_B840as_PNLs_AA_000000000_r
B840 (PNL): 100 рублей (rubles) (US$1.50)
Blue, green, yellow, and red. Front (vertical): Russian text; coat of arms; standing boy holding soccer ball under arm; goalkeeper (Lev Yashin) diving for soccer ball; Quick Recognition Code. Back (vertical): Russian text; stylized Russian flag with silhouettes of athletic fans; stylized globe on soccer ball with Russian Federation map; names of Russian cities hosting playoff games. No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): None. Printer: (Goznak). 150 x 65 mm. Polymer.
a. 2018. No sig. Prefix AA, AB.
20,400,000 notes printed. Intro: 22.05.2018.

Courtesy of Jérôme Deschamps, Vladimir Buravlev, 钞票百科 (Chaopiaobaike), Sergey Parfenov, Menshikov Anton, Vadim Tislenko, and Михаил Плахов.

Moldova new 20-leu note (B119a) confirmed

Moldova_BNM_20_lei_2015.00.00_B119a_P23_D.0187_205386_fMoldova_BNM_20_lei_2015.00.00_B119a_P23_D.0187_205386_r
Like B111, but demetalized BNM on the solid security thread, denomination as registration device at lower right front, intaglio printing and blind embossing of the denomination.

Courtesy of .

Macedonia new date (00.05.2018) 100-denari note (B208l) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_100_denari_2018.05.00_B208l_P16a_MC_072304_fMacedonia_NBRM_100_denari_2018.05.00_B208l_P16a_MC_072304_r
Like B208k, but new date (MАЈ 2018). Prefix MC.

Courtesy of Darko Berger.





Tatarstan chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 5-page catalog covers notes issued by the Tatarstan Government from 1992 to 1996. Published 15.06.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Madeira chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 7-page catalog covers notes issued by the Banco de Portugal (Bank of Portugal) from 1875 to 1891, and the Casa da Moeda (Mint) in 1892. Published 08.06.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Bosnia and Herzegovina chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 24-page catalog covers notes issued by Narodna Banka Bosne I Hercegovine (National Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina) from 1990 to 1995, and Centralna Banka Bosne I Hercegovine (Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina) from 1998 to present. Published 01.06.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Hungary new date (2018) 1,000-forint note (B588b) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_1000_forint_2018.00.00_B588b_PNL_DB_4733015_fHungary_MNB_1000_forint_2018.00.00_B588b_PNL_DB_4733015_r
Like B588a, but new date (2018). Prefix DB.

Courtesy of Sabine Leuenberger ().


Northern Ireland's Bank of Ireland new sig/date (02.03.2017) 10-pound note (B133b) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_BOI_10_pounds_2017.03.02_B133b_P87_BB_220174_f
Northern_Ireland_BOI_10_pounds_2017.03.02_B133b_P87_BB_220174_r
Like B133a, but new date (2nd March 2017) and new signature (Thomas McAreavey). Prefix BB.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Northern Ireland's Ulster Bank unveils new 5- and 10-pound polymer notes for 2019 introduction

On 23 May 2018, Ulster Bank unveiled the designs of two new banknotes to be introduced in 2019 under the “Living in Nature” theme. Both notes have vertical designs and are printed on polymer substrate. The blue 5-pound note focuses on Northern Ireland as a place that people pass through and visit, highlighting the importance of the sea and migration. It depicts Strangford Lough in County Down and Brent Geese. The brown 10-pound note focuses on Northern Ireland as a place of growth, both in terms of agriculture and heritage. It depicts Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, the Irish hare and Guelder-rose shrubs. The notes also feature culinary delights associated with the north, namely a king scallop and an Ulster Glade potato.

Northern_Ireland_UBL_5_pounds_2017.06.02_B939as_PNLs_AA_123456_fNorthern_Ireland_UBL_10_pounds_2017.06.02_B940as_PNLs_AA_123456_f

Courtesy of Mark Irwin, David Hunter, Philip Smith, Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen, Don Ludwig, and Iain Burn.

Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble commemorative note (B226) reported

On 11 May 2018, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced a 1-ruble banknotes commemorating the 100th anniversary of the border troops. 1,500 pieces were issued into circulation and 1,000 pieces were sold as numismatic products.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B226a_PNL_f

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko and Albert Vokhmin.

Poland new sig/date (12.01.2017) 500-złoty note (B864b) confirmed

Poland_NBP_500_zlotych_2017.01.12_B864b_P190_AF_7542392_fPoland_NBP_500_zlotych_2017.01.12_B864b_P190_AF_7542392_r
Like B864a, but new date (12 STYCZNIA 2017) and new signatures. Prefix AF.

Courtesy of Jan Boguś.


Macedonia new 10- and 50-denar polymer notes (B217, B218) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_10_denari_2018.03.00_B217a_PNL_AB_844608_f
Macedonia_NBRM_10_denari_2018.03.00_B217a_PNL_AB_844608_r

Macedonia_NBRM_50_denari_2018.03.00_B218a_PNL_БA_419786_f
Macedonia_NBRM_50_denari_2018.03.00_B218a_PNL_БA_419786_r
These notes are like the preceding issues, but printed on polymer substrate, not paper.

Courtesy of James Pickering (e-worldbanknotes.com).



Bank of England appoints Sarah John as new Chief Cashier

According to a press release dated 30 April 2018, the governor of the Bank of England has announced that Sarah John will be the next chief cashier and director of notes beginning 1 June 2018, taking over from Victoria Cleland. Expect new signature varieties to follow.

Macedonia new 10- and 50-denar polymer notes reported for 15.05.2018 introduction

According to an article on Sitel.com dated 8 April 2018, the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia plans to replace the existing 10- and 50-denar paper notes with new polymer notes on 15 May 2018.

Courtesy of Martin Grupcev.

Czech Republic new 100-korun commemorative note design competition announced

The Česká Národní Banka held a competition to design a new 100-korun banknote featuring Alois Rasin to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Czechoslovak currency. On 1 March 2018, the bank announced its decision to approve the following design submitted by painter Eva Hašková. The new note will circulate in parallel with the normal issues beginning in 2019.

Czech_Republic_CNB_100_korun_2019.00.00_B129_PNL_fCzech_Republic_CNB_100_korun_2019.00.00_B129_PNL_r

Courtesy of Mojmir Cerny.

Republic of Ireland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Republic of Ireland 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 Currency Commission (Coimisiún Airgid Reatha) from 1928 to 1942, and the Central Bank of Ireland (Banc Ceannais na hÉireann) from 1943 to 2001. Published 31.03.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

Subscribe
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If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.

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Romania new coat of arms/date (2018) 100-leu note (B290a) confirmed

Romania_BNR_100_lei_2018.01.01_PNL_182F_4703955_fRomania_BNR_100_lei_2018.01.01_PNL_182F_4703955_r
Like P121, but new date: 1 ianuarie 2018 / (20)18; and new coat of arms with crowned eagle.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Marius Rosca (Pecunia Auctions/www.ebancnote.ro).

Switzerland new 200-franc note to be unveiled 15.08.2018

According to a press release dated 19 March 2018, the Swiss National Bank plans to unveil the design of its new 200-franc note on 15 August 2018, and introduce the note into circulation on 22 August 2018.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Ireland may stop printing euro banknotes

According to an RTE article dated 9 March 2018, the board of the Central Bank of Ireland is considering a recommendation to stop printing euro banknotes at the bank's Currency Centre in Sandyford, Co Dublin. Ireland would continue to use euro banknotes printed elsewhere.

Courtesy of Jim Chen.

Ukraine to replace 1, 2, 5, and 10 kryven notes with coins

On 14 March 2018, the National Bank of Ukraine announced that it will stop printing and issuing banknotes of 1, 2, 5, and 10 hryven, and will gradually replace worn notes with coins of the same denominations.

Courtesy of Dmytry Nevmyvako.



Hungary upgraded 1,000-forint note (B588) confirmed introduced 01.03.2018

According to a press release, the Magyar Nemzeti Bank unveiled a new 1,000-forint note with enhanced security features to be introduced 1 March 2018. The existing notes of the same denomination will be withdrawn starting 1 November 2018, and will be demonetized 1 November 2038.

Hungary_MNB_1000_forint_2017.00.00_B588a_PNL_DB_6823809_f
Hungary_MNB_1000_forint_2017.00.00_B588a_PNL_DB_6823809_r

Courtesy of Ilkka Malmi, Antje Bird, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Italy chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 52-page catalog covers notes issued by the Consorzio degli Istituti di Emissione (Consortium of Issuing Institutes) in 1874, Biglietti Già Consorziale (Former Banknote Consortium) in 1881, Ministero del Tesoro (Ministry of the Treasury) from 1882 to 1979, Banca d’Italia (Bank of Italy) from 1896 to 1997, Cassa Veneta dei Prestiti (Venetian Loan Office) in 1918, and Allied Military Currency in 1943. Published 02.03.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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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Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble commemorative note (B225) confirmed

On 19 February 2018, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced a 1-ruble banknote commemorating the 100th anniversary of the armed forces. 1,500 pieces were issued into circulation and 1,000 pieces were sold as numismatic products.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B225a_PNL_BC_0001811_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B225a_PNL_BC_0001811_r

Courtesy of Дмитрий Невмывако.

Denmark chooses French firm Oberthur Fiduciaire to produce new notes due in 2020

According to a 21 February 2018 press release, "Danmarks Nationalbank has chosen the French company Oberthur Fiduciaire SAS as its supplier of Danish banknotes from 2018. The contract has been signed as a four-year framework agreement, with the option that it may be extended for a further two years. The first Danish banknotes printed by Oberthur Fiduciaire are expected to be put into circulation in 2020."

Armenia 500-dram and Kyrgyzstan 2,000-som notes win Regional Banknote of the Year 2018

According to a 21 February 2018 press release, the organizers of High Security Printing EMEA, Reconnaissance, revealed the 2018 winners of the Regional Banknote of the Year during the gala dinner at the conference in Warsaw, Poland.

Armenia_CBA_500_dram_2017.00.00_BNP301a_PNL_ՆՏ_055008_fArmenia_CBA_500_dram_2017.00.00_BNP301a_PNL_ՆՏ_055008_r
Armenia BNP301

Kyrgyzstan_KB_2000_com_2017.00.00_B234a_PNL_AB_6339630_fKyrgyzstan_KB_2000_com_2017.00.00_B234a_PNL_AB_6339630_r
Kyrgyzstan B234

Denmark new date (2016) 500-kroner note (B938d) confirmed

Denmark_DN_500_kroner_2016.00.00_B938d_P68d_A7_538997_B_f
Like B938c, but new date (2016). Prefix A7.

Courtesy of Frede Hansen.

Albania new 10,000-lek note reportedly approved

According to a 7 December 2017 report in Albanian Daily News, the Banka e Shqiperise has approved a design of a new 10,000-lek note featuring poet Aleksandër Stavre Drenova, known by the pen name Asdreni. No word yet on when the note is expected to be introduced into circulation.

Courtesy of Nick Meister.

Albania new sig/date (2015) 500-lek note (B317c) confirmed

Albania_BES_500_leke_2015.00.00_B317c_P72_KU_936448_f
Albania_BES_500_leke_2015.00.00_B317c_P72_KU_936448_r
Like B317b, but new date (2015), new signatures, 2.0-mm wide security thread, and umlauts added to SHQIPËRISË (Albania) and PESËQIND LEKË (five hundred lek). Prefix KU.

Courtesy of Nick Meister.

Czech Republic to unveil enhanced security 100- and 200-korun notes in May 2018

According to a 30 January 2018 press release, the Česká Národní Banka will issue new versions of the 100- and 200-korun notes with enhanced security features. Further details to follow in May 2018. Existing notes will circulate in parallel.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Germany chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 91-page catalog covers notes issued by the Reichsschuldenverwaltung (Imperial Debt Office) from 1874 to 1923, Reichsbank (Imperial Bank) from 1876 to 1945, Rentenbank (Stabilization Bank) from 1923 to 1939, Deutsche Golddiskontbank (German Gold Discount Bank) in 1924, Allied Military Currency in 1944, Régie des Chemins de Fer des Territoires Occupés (Occupied Territories Railway Company) in 1923, Reichskreditkasse (Imperial Credit Bank) from 1939 to 1945, Deutsches Wehrmacht (German Armed Forces) from 1940 to 1942, Sächsische Staatsbank (State Bank of Saxony) in 1945, Reichsverteidigungsbezirke Sudetenland und Niederschlesien (Imperial Defense District of the Sudetenland and Lower Silesia) in 1945, Trésor Français (French Treasury) in 1947, Baden Staatsschuldenverwaltung (Baden State Debt Administration) in 1947, Rheinland-Pfalz Landesregierung (Government of the State of Rhineland-Palatinate) in 1947, and Württemberg-Hohenzollern Finanzministerium (Finance Ministry of Württemberg-Hohenzollern) in 1947. Published 02.02.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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

Ukraine new 100-karbovantsiv numismatic product (BNP807) confirmed introduced 29.12.2017

On 29 December 2017, the National Bank of Ukraine introduced a souvenir 100-karbovantsiv note commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first Ukrainian banknotes. 80,000 notes in folders were offered for sale at 42 hryven each. An additional 20,000 notes were packaged in folders with a medal for 156 hryven each.

Ukraine_NBU_100_hryven_2017.00.00_BNP807a_PNL_YP_0067909_fUkraine_NBU_100_hryven_2017.00.00_BNP807a_PNL_YP_0067909_r

Courtesy of Artem Shevchenko and Константин Бохонок.

Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new date (01.01.2015) 20-pound note (B938g) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_20_pounds_2015.01.01_B938g_P342_M_86513454_fNorthern_Ireland_UBL_20_pounds_2015.01.01_B938g_P342_M_86513454_r
Like B938f, but new date (1st JANUARY 2015). Prefix M.

Bank of Scotland charity auction 10-pound notes confirmed

On 1 December 2017, Spink concluded an auction of new Bank of Scotland 10-pound notes to raise money for the charity Mental Health UK. There were two notes with special 8-character serial numbers chosen by the winning bidders, plus 36 other notes with prefixes and serial numbers designed to appeal to railroad enthusiasts. 18 notes each with BR (British Railway) and LMS (London Midland Scotland) prefixes were sold with serial numbers corresponding to the number on each of the Stanier Black 5 locomotives in preservation today. The LMS notes also feature an overprinted “totem” sign at upper left back corresponding to a station: Ardlui, Arrochar And Tarbet, Banavie, Bridge Of Orchy, Corrour, Crianlarich Upper, Fort William, Garelochhead, Glenfinnan, Helensburgh-Upper, Lochailort, Locheilside, Morar, Rannoch, Roy Bridge, Spean Bridge, Tulloch, and Tyndrum Upper.

Scotland_BOS_10_pounds_2016.06.01_BNL_PNL_BR_45305_f
Scotland_BOS_10_pounds_2016.06.01_BNL_PNL_BR_45305_r

Scotland_BOS_10_pounds_2016.06.01_BNL_PNL_LMS_5305_fScotland_BOS_10_pounds_2016.06.01_BNL_PNL_LMS_5305_r

Courtesy of Olin Yeh.

Romania new crowned eagle notes reportedly introduced 01.01.2018

On 8 June 2016, the Romanian parliament adopted a draft law which restores the crown on the head of the gold eagle in the country’s coat of arms. Pursuant to the provisions of Articles 14 and 17 of Law No. 312/2004 on the Statute of the National Bank of Romania and of Law No. 146/2016 amending Law No. 102/1992 on the country’s coat of arms and seal, existing banknotes will continue to circulate in parallel with new notes and coins until 31 December 2018. Beginning 1 January 2018, Banca Nationala a Romaniei began issuing revised notes like the preceding issues, but with the new coat of arms and a new date.

Romanian_coats_of_arms

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin, Mihai Vulpe, and Daniel Mendea.

Moldova new 5-leu note (B117.5) confirmed

Moldova_BNM_5_lei_2015.00.00_B117.5a_PNL_B.0131_552810_f
Moldova_BNM_5_lei_2015.00.00_B117.5a_PNL_B.0131_552810_r
Like B109, but new date, new signature, and denomination as registration device at lower right front. Intro: 11.12.2017.

Courtesy of Mike Plakhov, Olexandr Danishenko, and Tislenko Vadim.

Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble commemorative notes (B223, B224) confirmed introduced 18.12.2017

On 18 December 2017, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced two different 1-ruble banknotes commemorating the 100th anniversary of the state security bodies and police, respectively. 2,500 pieces of each were issued into circulation, and an unknown number were also packaged in a folder and sold as numismatic products.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B223a_PNL_BK_0001452_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B223a_PNL_BK_0001452_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B224a_PNL_MB_0001452_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B224a_PNL_MB_0001452_r

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Mike Plakhov.



Northern Ireland Danske Bank new sig/date 20-pound note (B502b) confirmed

Northern_Ireland_DB_20_pounds_2016.07.06_B502b_P213_AB_9862802_f
Like B502a, but new signature (Kevin P. Kingston) and new date (6th July 2016). Prefix AB.

Courtesy of Michael Burman.

Czech Republic new 100-korun commemorative note design competition announced

According to an article in iDNES.cz dated 23 November 2017, the Česká Národní Banka has announced a competition to design a new 100-korun banknote featuring Alois Rasin to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Czechoslovak currency. The new note will be gold, and will circulate in parallel with the normal issues beginning in 2019. The deadline for the competition is 19 January 2018.

Courtesy of Mojmir Cerny.

Trans-Dniester new 1- and 5-ruble commemorative notes (B221, B222) confirmed introduced 03.11.2017

On 3 November 2017, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank introduced 1- and 5-ruble banknotes commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Great October Socialist Revolution. 2,983 pieces of each denomination were issued into circulation. 2,017 pieces of each denomination were sold as numismatic products.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B221a_PNL_OP_0001410_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2012.00.00_B221a_PNL_OP_0001410_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_5_rubles_2012.00.00_B222a_PNL_OP_0001410_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_5_rubles_2012.00.00_B222a_PNL_OP_0001410_r

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin, Dmitry Nevmyvako, and Vadim Tislenko.

Lithuania new numismatic product (BNP102) confirmed introduced 04.12.2017

According to a press release dated 29 November 2017, on 4 December 2017 the Bank of Lithuania will auction 500 sets of notes with an opening bid of 50 euros each. The sets are comprised of three unissued notes: 100 litu dated 1994 (B161b), 500 litu dated 1991 (B162a), and 1,000 litu dated 1991 (B163a). On 12 December 2017, 4,484 sets will be offered for sale at the average price of the auction.

Lithuania_LB_1000_litų_2017.00.00_BNP102a_PNL_folder_1

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Robert Bethea.

Turkey new signature 200-lira note (B305c) confirmed

Turkey_TCMB_200_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B305c_P227_C009_897317_f
Turkey_TCMB_200_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B305c_P227_C009_897317_r
Like B305b, but new signature 60. Prefix C009.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Romania new date (2017) 5-leu note (B279h) confirmed

Romania_BNR_5_lei_2017.00.00_P118_174G_0056264_f
Romania_BNR_5_lei_2017.00.00_P118_174G_0056264_r
Like P118, but new date (2017).

Courtesy of Krassy Dimitrov.

Moldova new date (2015) 200-leu note (B122) confirmed

Moldova_BNM_200_lei_2015.00.00_B122a_P26_G.0071_640552_fMoldova_BNM_200_lei_2015.00.00_B122a_P26_G.0071_640552_r

Courtesy of Igor Tereshkov.

Croatia new sig/date (09.07.2012) 50-kuna note (B504b) confirmed

Croatia_HNB_50_kuna_2012.07.09_B504b_P40_A_1673426_S_fCroatia_HNB_50_kuna_2012.07.09_B504b_P40_A_1673426_S_r
Like B504a, but new signature and new date (9. SRPANJ 2012). Prefix/suffix A/S. Intro: 25.09.2017.

Courtesy of Robert Mol.

Russia new 2,000-ruble note (B838) confirmed introduced 12.10.2017

According to a press release dated 12 October 2017, the Bank of Russia has introduced a new 2,000-ruble note (B838).

Russia_CBR_2000_rubles_2017.00.00_B838a_PNL_AA_023991120_fRussia_CBR_2000_rubles_2017.00.00_B838a_PNL_AA_023991120_r
B838 (PNL): 2,000 рублей (rubles) (US$30)
Blue. Front: Russian text; unknown building; bank seal; cable-stayed Russky Bridge over Eastern Bosphorus Strait in Vladivostok; bridge in gold SPARK; Far Eastern Federal University building in Vladivostok; QR-code. Back: Russian text; rocket on launchpad at Vostochny Cosmodrome in Amur Oblast; map of eastern Russia. 5-mm wide holographic windowed security thread with demetalized 2000. Watermark: Bridge and electrotype 2000. Printer: (Goznak). 157 x 69 mm.
a. 2017. Prefix AA. Intro: 12.10.2017.

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Ole Martin Halck.

Hungary chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 38-page catalog covers notes issued by the Magyar Nemzeti Bank (Hungarian National Bank) from 1926 to present. Published 27 October 2017.

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 10-franc note (B355) confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_10_francs_2016.00.00_B355a_P75_16_D_7596989_fSwitzerland_SNB_10_francs_2016.00.00_B355a_P75_16_D_7596989_rSwitzerland_SNB_10_francs_2016.00.00_B355a_P75_16_F_7596586_r
Switzerland_SNB_10_francs_2016.00.00_B355a_P75_16_A_1270806_r

Courtesy of Sabine Leuenberger (http://stores.ebay.com/collectunccurrency).


Bank of Scotland new 10-pound polymer note confirmed

Scotland_BOS_10_pounds_2016.06.01_BNL_PNL_BB_950750_f
Scotland_BOS_10_pounds_2016.06.01_BNL_PNL_BB_950750_r

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Royal Bank of Scotland new 10-pound polymer note confirmed

Scotland_RBS_10_pounds_2016.12.26_BNL_PNL_AA_111111_f
Scotland_RBS_10_pounds_2016.12.26_BNL_PNL_AA_111111_r
Brown, orange, and red. Front: English text; flowers; bank logo in SPARK Orbital; exerpt from Somerville’s “The Connection of the Physical Sciences;” beach of Somerville’s hometown, Burntisland; mathematician and astronomer Mary Somerville. Back: English text; botanicals used in dyeing; two otters; excerpt from Norman MacCaig’s poem, “Moorings.” No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: (Thomas De La Rue). 132 x 69 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 26th December 2016. Prefix AA - AC. Intro: 04.10.2017.

Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.

Russia new 200-ruble note (B835) confirmed introduced 12.10.2017

According to a press release dated 12 October 2017, the Bank of Russia has introduced a new 200-ruble note (B835).

According to a press release dated 13 October 2017, the National Bank of Ukraine announced that effective 17 October, all Ukrainian financial institutions are forbidden from performing any cash transactions with “notes and coins issued by the Central Bank of the Russian Federation in case they contain images of maps, symbols, buildings, monuments, archeological or historical artefacts, and landscapes of any other objects located on Ukrainian administrative territorial units occupied by the Russian Federation and/or bear texts related to occupation of Ukraine’s territories by the Russian Federation.”

Russia_CBR_200_rubles_2017.00.00_B835a_PNL_AA_009879074_f
Russia_CBR_200_rubles_2017.00.00_B835a_PNL_AA_009879074_r
B835 (PNL): 200 рублей (rubles) (US$3)
Green. Front: Russian text; colonnade of Count’s Quay in Sevastopol; bank seal; seagulls flying over breaking waves and sculptor Amandus Adamson’s “Monument to the Scuttled Ships” in Sevastopol Bay: Count’s Quay in Sevastopol; QR-code. Back: Russian text; arch, columns, bell, and door archeological ruins on Chersonese in Sevastopol; bird and branch tile mosaic; map of Crimea; grapes and leaves. 3-mm wide windowed security thread with demetalized 200. Watermark: Monument to the Scuttled Ships and electrotype 200. Printer: (Goznak). 150 x 65 mm.
a. 2017. Prefix AA. Intro: 12.10.2017.

Courtesy of everyone and his brother.

Hungary new date (2017) 5,000-forint note (B590b) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_5000_forint_2017.00.00_B590b_P205_BC_4741839_f
Like B590a, but new date (2017). Prefix BC.

Courtesy of Brian Evans.

Switzerland unveils new 10-franc note due for 18.10.2017 introduction

The Swiss National Bank has unveiled the design of its new 10-franc note scheduled for introduction on 18 October 2017.

Switzerland_SNB_10_francs_2016.00.00_B355a_P75_16_D_3007457_fSwitzerland_SNB_10_francs_2016.00.00_B355a_P75_16_D_3007457_r



Scotland Clydesdale Bank new 10-pound polymer note confirmed

On 21 September 2017, the Clydesdale Bank introduced a new 10-pound polymer note.

Scotland_CB_10_pounds_2017.01.25_B400a_PNL_W-HS_064725_f
Scotland_CB_10_pounds_2017.01.25_B400a_PNL_W-HS_064725_r

Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe.

Great Britain new 10-pound polymer note introduced 14.09.2017

On 14 September 2017, the Bank of England introduced a new 10-pound polymer note. Confirmed prefixes: AA, AE, AH, CA, CB.

Great_Britain_BOE_10_pounds_2016.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA01_000010_fGreat_Britain_BOE_10_pounds_2016.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA01_000010_r

Dutch banknote printer Joh. Enschedé en zonen auction

The Dutch firm Joh. Enschedé en zonen is auctioning off its machines due to the closing of the banknote printing department. It's sad to see this venerable printer shuttered, but at least with the auction listings one can get an unprecedented look at the inner workings of a secretive industry.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Moldova new date (2015) 10-leu note (B118) confirmed

Moldova_BNM_10_lei_2015.00.00_B118a_P22_C.0254_278409_fMoldova_BNM_10_lei_2015.00.00_B118a_P22_C.0254_278409_r

Courtesy of Volodymyr Nakonechnyy ().

Moldova new date (2015) 50-leu note (B120) confirmed

Moldova_BNM_50_lei_2015.00.00_B120a_P24_E.0147_279360_fMoldova_BNM_50_lei_2015.00.00_B120a_P24_E.0147_279360_r

Courtesy of Volodymyr Nakonechnyy ().

Poland new 20-złoty commemorative note (BNP821) confirmed introduced 21.08.2017

To commemorate the 300th anniversary of the “Coronation of the Icon of Our Lady of Częstochowa” (The Blessed Virgin Mary), the National Bank of Poland plans to issue up to 55,000 new 20-złoty banknotes for 60 złotych each beginning on 21 August 2017. The note was designed by Justyna Kopecka.

Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2017.05.10_BNP821a_PNL_JG_0040739_fPoland_NBP_20_zlotych_2017.05.10_BNP821a_PNL_JG_0040739_r

Courtesy of Michael Reissner and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Turkey new signature 50- and 100-lira notes (B303c and B304c) reported

According to a press release dated 14 July 2017, the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey has introduced new signature varieties for its 50- and 100-lira notes (B303c and B304c, respectively).

Turkey_TCMB_50_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B303c_P225_C126_894593_fTurkey_TCMB_50_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B303c_P225_C126_894593_r

Turkey_TCMB_100_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B304c_P226_D043_001221_fTurkey_TCMB_100_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B304c_P226_D043_001221_r

Courtesy of Nazim Alper Ates and M. Okyay Demirors.

Great Britain unveils new 10-pound polymer note for 14.09.2017 intro

Great_Britain_BOE_10_pounds_2016.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA10_471840_f
Great_Britain_BOE_10_pounds_2016.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA10_471840_r
On 18 July 2017, the 200th anniversary of the death of Jane Austin, the Bank of England unveiled a 10-pound note featuring the 19th century novelist. It is the first BOE note with a tactile feature to help the sight impaired. The note will be introduced into circulation on 14 September 2017. It will circulate in parallel with the preceding paper note, which will be withdrawn in the first half of 2018.


Romania new date (2017) 100-leu note (B283h) confirmed

Romania_BNR_100_lei_2017.00.00_P121_171H_2735290_fRomania_BNR_100_lei_2017.00.00_P121_171H_2735290_r
Like P121, but new date (2017).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Gligor Adrian Borza.

Bosnia-Herzegovina new sig/date (2017) notes confirmed

The Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegonvina has apparently introduced revised notes of all denominations except 20 maraka. The notes have new date (2017) and new signature (Senad Softić).

Bosnia_Herzegovina_CBBH_10_convertible_maraka_2017.00.00_B224b_P80_G_20017551_fBosnia_Herzegovina_CBBH_10_convertible_maraka_2017.00.00_B225b_P81_G_02033700_fBosnia_Herzegovina_CBBH_50_convertible_maraka_2017.00.00_B228b_P84_G_08673002_fBosnia_Herzegovina_CBBH_50_convertible_maraka_2017.00.00_B229b_P85_G_01816022_fBosnia_Herzegovina_CBBH_100_convertible_maraka_2017.00.00_B230b_P86_G_08696911_fBosnia_Herzegovina_CBBH_100_convertible_maraka_2017.00.00_B231b_P87_G_04382066_f

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Leo Reich.

Luxembourg chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Luxembourg 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 the Banque Internationale a Luxembourg / Internationale Bank in Luxemburg (International Bank in Luxembourg) from 1856 to 1981, the Grossherzoglich Luxemburgische National Bank (National Bank of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg) from 1873 to 1876, the Grand-Duché de Luxembourg (Grand Duchy of Luxembourg) from 1914 to 1982, and the Institut Monetaire Luxembourgeois (Luxembourg Monetary Institute) from 1985 to 1996. Published 29 June 2017.

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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Norway new 100- and 200-krone notes confirmed

Norway_NB_100_kroner_2016.00.00_B658a_PNL_9202040160_fNorway_NB_100_kroner_2016.00.00_B658a_PNL_9202040160_r

Norway_NB_200_kroner_2016.00.00_B659a_PNL_3201763708_fNorway_NB_200_kroner_2016.00.00_B659a_PNL_3201763708_r

Courtesy of Håkon Meidell-Pritzier Hagelund and Kjell Riibe (www.riibe.com).

Soviet banknotes discovered abandonded in Russian forest

Check out this fascinating video of billions of demonetized Soviet banknotes abandoned in a Russian forest.



Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Bank of Scotland new 10-pound polymer note unveiled

According to an article in Daily Business dated 29 May 2017, the Bank of Scotland plans to introduce a new 10-pound polymer note in the autumn 2017.

Scotland_BOS_10_pounds_2016.06.01_BNL_PNL_AA_123456_fScotland_BOS_10_pounds_2016.06.01_BNL_PNL_AA_123456_r

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Hungary new date (2017) 20,000-forint note (B592c) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_20000_forint_2017.00.00_B592c_P207c_GA_8548425_f
Like B592b, but new date (2017). Prefix GA.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Switzerland new 20-franc note (B356) confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_20_francs_2015.00.00_B356a_P76_15_N_fSwitzerland_SNB_20_francs_2015.00.00_B356a_P76_15_r
Three different signature varieties have been confirmed.

Courtesy of Christof Zellwegger.

Austria-Hungary chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 14-page catalog covers notes issued by the Oesterreichisch-Ungarische Bank (Austro-Hungarian Bank) from 1880 to 1918. Published 19 May 2017.

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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Denmark new date (2016) 50-krone note (B935f) confirmed

Denmark_DN_50_kroner_2016.00.00_B935f_P65_B5_328119_H_f
B935f: Like B935e, but new date (2016).

Courtesy of Frede Hansen.

Switzerland unveils new 20-franc note (B356) to be introduced 17.05.2017

According to a press release dated 10 May 2017, the Swiss National Bank has unveiled the design of the new 20-franc note to be introduced on 17 May 2017. This is the second denomination in a new family to be released, following the 50-franc note which recently won the IBNS Bank Note of the Year 2016 award. Existing notes remain legal tender.

Switzerland_SNB_20_francs_2015.00.00_B356a_P76_15_Q_0056837_fSwitzerland_SNB_20_francs_2015.00.00_B356a_P76_15_Q_0056837_r

"The 20-franc note focuses on Switzerland’s creativity – expressed by light, the note’s key motif. Core design elements in the new series are the hand and the globe, which appear on every denomination." The new note remains red, but is reduced in size for easier handling.

The next denomination due for release is the 10-franc note slated for 18 October 2017. The remaining notes in the series will be issued subsequently at half-yearly or yearly intervals.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger, Thomas Krause, Igor Nosenko, and Claudio Marana.

Moldova new date (2015) 500-leu note (B123) confirmed

Moldova_BNM_500_lei_2015.00.00_B123a_P27_H.0027_257702_f
Moldova_BNM_500_lei_2015.00.00_B123a_P27_H.0027_257702_r

Courtesy of Volodymyr Nakonechnyy ().

Turkey new signature 5-lira note (B306b) confirmed

Turkey_TCMB_5_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B306b_PNL_C054_186330_fTurkey_TCMB_5_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B306b_PNL_C054_186330_r
Like B306a, but new signatures (Murat Çetinkaya and Erkan Kilimci). Prefix C054.

Courtesy of Paul Nahmias.

Turkey new signature 10-lira note (B301c) confirmed

Turkey_TCMB_10_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B301c_P223_C121_480908_f
Turkey_TCMB_10_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B301c_P223_C121_480908_r
Like B301b, but new signatures (Murat Çetinkaya and Murat Uysal). Prefix C121.

Courtesy of Paul Nahmias.

Turkey new signature 5-, 10-, and 200-lira notes reportedly introduced 27.03.2017

According to a press release dated 25 March 2017, the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey plans to introduce 5-, 10-, and 200-lira notes (B300, B301, B305, respectively) with new signatures on 27 March 2017.

Courtesy of M. Okyay Demirors.

Poland new sig/date (15.09.2016) 10-złoty note (B859b) confirmed

Poland_NBP_10_zlotych_2016.09.15_B859b_P183_AU_6384788_f
Poland_NBP_10_zlotych_2016.09.15_B859b_P183_AU_6384788_r
B859b: Like B859a, but new date (15 WRZESNIA 2016) and signature 18. Prefix AU.

Courtesy of Jacek Stącel.

Czechoslovakia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 38-page catalog covers notes issued by the Republika Československá (Czechoslovak Republic) from 1919 to 1962, the Národní Banka Československá (National Bank of Czechoslovakia) from 1926 to 1946, and the Státní Banka Československá (Czechoslovak State Bank) from 1950 to 1989. Published 28 April 2017.

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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Romania new date (2017) 50-leu note (B282g) confirmed

Romania_BNR_50_lei_2005.07.01_P120_1172G_0077147_f
Romania_BNR_50_lei_2005.07.01_P120_1172G_0077147_r
Like P120, but new date (2017).

Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe and Marius Rosca.

Ukraine central bank governor resigns

According to a press release dated 10 April 2017, Valeria Gontareva has tendered her resignation as governor of the National Bank of Ukraine, effective 10 May 2017.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

Ukraine new sig/date (2016) 20-hryvnia note (B849e) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_20_hryven_2016.00.00_B849e_P120_ЧГ_5298999_f
Ukraine_NBU_20_hryven_2016.00.00_B849e_P120_ЧГ_5298999_r
B849e: Like B849d, but new date (2016) and new signature.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Олег Михайленко ().


European Monetary Union new 50-euro note (B111) confirmed

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_50_euros_2017.00.00_B111w3_P23_WB_1013253921_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_50_euros_2017.00.00_B111w3_P23_WB_1013253921_r
B111 (P23): 50 euro (US$55)
Orange. Front: Flag; Renaissance architecture. Back: Bridge; map. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized 50 EURO. Watermark: Head of Europa and electrotype 50. Printer: Various (see code chart). 140 x 77 mm.
w3. Signature 3. Prefix PB, WB. Intro: 04.04.2017.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).


Romania new date (2017) 1-leu note (B278k) confirmed

Romania_BNR_1_leu_2014.00.00_P117b_17I_9267549_fRomania_BNR_1_leu_2014.00.00_P117b_17I_9267549_r
Like P117, but new date (2017).

Courtesy of Marius Rosca.

Serbia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 22-page catalog covers notes issued by Principality of Serbia in 1876, Privileged National Bank of the Kingdom of Serbia from 1884-1917, Serbian National Bank from 1941-1943, and National Bank of Serbia from 2003 to present. Revised 24 March 2017.

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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Poland new sig/date (15.09.2016) 20-zloty note (B860b) confirmed

Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2016.09.15_B860b_P184_AR_0176960_f
Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2016.09.15_B860b_P184_AR_0176960_r
B860b: Like B860a, but new date (15 WRZESNIA 2016) and new signatures (Adam Glapinski and Marek Oles). Prefix AR.

Courtesy of Jan Boguś.

Hungary new 2,000- and 5,000-forint notes confirmed

According to a press release, the Magyar Nemzeti Bank introduced new 2,000- and 5,000-forint notes into circulation on 1 March 2017, although they were declared legal tender from 15 November 2016. Existing notes of the same denominations will circulate in parallel until 31 July 2017, after which time they will be withdrawn, but will not be demonetized until 31 July 2037. A new 1,000-forint note is planned for the second half of 2017.

The new notes have enhanced security features.

Hungary_MNB_2000_forint_2016.00.00_PNL_CE_4890632_f
Hungary_MNB_2000_forint_2016.00.00_PNL_CE_4890632_r

Hungary_MNB_5000_forint_2016.00.00_PNL_BD_7286896_f
Hungary_MNB_5000_forint_2016.00.00_PNL_BD_7286896_r

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online), Szilard Szemere, and Ilkka Malmi.

Macedonia new date (00.12.2016) 1,000-denar note (B214d) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_1000_denari_2016.12.00_B214d_P22_KA_4650868_f
Macedonia_NBRM_1000_denari_2016.12.00_B214d_P22_KA_4650868_r
Like B214c, but new date (Декември 2016). Prefix KA.

Courtesy of Martin Grupcev.

Montenegro chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Montenegro 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 Kingdom of Montenegro from 1912 to 1914. Published 24 February 2017.

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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Denmark new date (2015) 200-kroner note (B937e) confirmed

Denmark_DN_200_kroner_2015.00.00_B937e_P67_A8_076175_D_fDenmark_DN_200_kroner_2015.00.00_B937e_P67_A8_076175_E_fDenmark_DN_200_kroner_2015.00.00_B937e_P67_A8_076175_F_f
B937e: Like B937d, but new date (2015). Three signature varieties confirmed. Prefix A8.

Courtesy of Janus Juraschek.

England to continue using polymer with tallow in 5- and 10-pound banknotes

According to a press release dated 15 February 2017, the Bank of England acknowledged the concerns of some regarding trace amounts of animal-derived tallow in the production of the polymer substrate used in the 5-pound note introduced on 13 September 2016, as well as the 10-pound note scheduled for September 2017 introduction. However, the bank has decided not to withdraw the notes nor stop their introduction because to do so would incur substantial costs, but changes may be made for the new 20-pound note due for introduction in 2020.

Courtesy of Mark Irwin.

Iceland new signature 5,000-króna note (B816d) confirmed

Iceland_SI_5000_krónur_2001.05.22_B816d_P60_ZZ_00008999_f
Like B816c, but new signature (Már Guðmundsson). Prefix Z (replacement).

Courtesy of Gestur Baldursson.

Russia new 100-ruble polymer World Cup commemorative note reported for 2018

According to a TASS article dated 14 February 2017, in the first quarter of 2018, the Bank of Russia will issue a 100-ruble banknote dedicated to 2018 World Cup, and it will be Russia's first polymer banknote. The bank also intends to use polymer when producing either the new 200- or 2,000-ruble notes with symbols of Sevastopol and the Far East.

Poland new 500-zloty note (B864) confirmed

According to a press release, on 10 February 2017 the Narodowy Bank Polski introduced a new 500-zloty note to "ensure the uninterrupted circulation of cash and a reduction in the cost of issuing currency, and will also satisfy the growing demand for high denomination banknotes."

Poland_NBP_500_zlotych_2016.02.16_B864a_PNL_AD_5997811_f
Poland_NBP_500_zlotych_2016.02.16_B864a_PNL_AD_5997811_r
B864 (PNL): 500 złotych (US$125)
Blue, brown, burgundy, and green. Front: Coat of arms with crowned eagle; Sobieski family coat-of-arms; King Jan III Sobieski (John Sobieski); crown as registration device; lobster-tailed pot helmet in green SPARK. Back: Crown; Wilanów Palace; eagle coat of arms. Gold-to-green RollingStar Cube windowed security thread and solid security thread with demetalized 500 ZŁ. Watermark: King Jan III Sobieski and electrotype 500. Printer: PWPW. 150 x 75 mm.
a. 16 LUTEGO 2016. Signature 17. Prefix AA - AD. Intro: 10.02.2017.

Courtesy of Jan Bogus.

Great Britain new 10-pound polymer note reported

Great_Britain_BOE_10_pounds_2017.00.00_BNL_PNL_f
Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

German-Austria chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The German-Austria 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 Oesterreichisch-Ungarische Bank (Austro-Hungarian Bank) in 1919. Published 27 January 2017.

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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Gibraltar new 100-pound polymer commemorative note (B135) confirmed

Gibraltar_GOG_100_pounds_2015.08.21_B135a_PNL_C_008081_f
Gibraltar_GOG_100_pounds_2015.08.21_B135a_PNL_C_008081_r
B135 (PNL): 100 pounds (US$142)
Purple. Front: Queen Elizabeth II; crenellated castle tower as registration device; coat of arms of castle with key. Back: Crenellated castle tower; Sir Joshua Hassan. Depth Image holographic stripe. Watermark: None. Printer: (TDLR). 163 x 90 mm. Polymer (Safeguard).
a. 21st August 2015. Sig. 15. Intro: 23.01.2017.
This is the first note in the world with a holographic foil on the Safeguard substrate.
Replacement notes: Serial number above C 250000.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online) and Arnoldo Efron (Global Numismatic Services).


Fiume chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 7-page catalog covers notes issued by the Citta` di Fiume (City of Fiume) from 1919 to 1921. Published 20 January 2017.

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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Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.

This 12-page catalog covers notes issued by the Ministry of Finance of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes from 1919 to 1921, and the National Bank of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes from 1920 to 1926. Published 13 January 2017.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.

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Austria chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 34-page catalog covers notes issued by the Oesterreichisch-Ungarische Bank (Austro-Hungarian Bank) from 1920 to 1922, Oesterreichische Nationalbank (Austrian National Bank) from 1924 to 1997, Alliierte Militärbehörde (Allied Military Authority) in 1944, and Republik Österreich (Republic of Austria) in 1945. Published 6 January 2017.

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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Poland new 10- and 20-złoty notes reported for 2017 introduction

According to ordinance 30/2016 of 1 December 2016, the National Bank of Poland intends to introduce the following new notes:

The 120 x 60 mm dark brown 10-złoty note will feature Prince Mieszko I on the front, dinar coins on the back, and is dated 15 WRZEŚNIA (September) 2016. 1 billion pieces will be introduced beginning 27 February 2017.

The 126 x 63 mm purple and pink 20-złoty note will feature King Bolesław I Chrobry on the front, coins on the back, and is dated 15 WRZEŚNIA (September) 2016. 800 million pieces will be introduced beginning 20 January 2017.

Courtesy of Jan Bogus.

Russia considering 100-ruble World Cup 2018 commemorative note

According to a press release dated 25 July 2016, the Russian security printer Goznak has prepared six different designs for a 100-ruble banknote to commemorate the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, to be held in various locations (Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Samara, Saransk, Sochi, Volgograd, Rostov-on-Don, Kaliningrad, Kazan, Yekaterinburg) from 14 June to 15 July. The commemorative note is expected to be printed on either polymer or a composite substrate to help distinguish it from regular issue banknotes. Printing is expected to begin in mid-2017 with the note introduced in 2018.

Macedonia new 200- and 2,000-denar notes (B215, B216) confirmed

Two years after initially unveiling their designs, the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia introduced banknotes in the new denominations of 200- and 2,000-denar on 15 December 2016, and is withdrawing current 5,000-denar banknotes (B211) to rebalance the structure of banknotes in circulation. Commercial banks will replace 5,000-denar notes from 15 December 2016 up to 28 February 2017. As of 1 March 2017, they will be exchangeable only at the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia.

Macedonia_NBRM_200_denari_2016.00.00_B215a_PNL_CE_160957_fMacedonia_NBRM_200_denari_2016.00.00_B215a_PNL_CE_160957_r
B215 (PNL): 200 денари (denari) (US$3.60)
Green, orange, yellow, and brown. Front: Leaf as registration device; bird; 7th-century medieval bow bronze fibula (brooch) found near Prilep; 6-7th century Christian terracotta icon from Vinica of warriors Joshua and Caleb wearing armor, holding spears and shield, illustrating Old Testament (The Book of Joshua) episode when Joshua stops the sun over Gibeon and the moon over the valley of Aijalon, before the victory of the Israelites over the Amorites. Back: Floral and star pattern from front facade of the Šarena (Aladža) Džamija in Tetovo and from marble floor tiles of 16th-century Ishak Çelebi Mosque in Bitola. Pearlescent stripe with 200 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 200. Watermark: Star, electrotype 200, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 144 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.

Macedonia_NBRM_2000_denari_2016.00.00_B216a_PNL_ФБ_1923787_fMacedonia_NBRM_2000_denari_2016.00.00_B216a_PNL_ФБ_1923787_r
B216 (PNL): 2,000 денари (denari) (US$36)
Purple, orange, yellow, and green. Front (vertical): Early Christian mosaic as registration device; 7th-century bronze poppy cup pendant; woman wearing Macedonian bridal costume; green-to-blue SPARK element. Back: Christian mosaic decoration of two peacocks (birds of paradise) near the “source of life” inside 16th-century gilded vessel. Pearlescent stripe with 2000 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 2000. Watermark: Macedonian bridal costume, electrotype 2000, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 152 x 70 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.

Courtesy of James Pickering (e-worldbanknotes.com).


Denmark new date (2014) 50-krone note (B935e) confirmed

Denmark_DN_50_kroner_2014.00.00_B935e_P65_BE_541671_E_f
B935e: Like B935d, but new date (2014). Prefix B3.

Courtesy of Frede Hansen.

Switzerland new 20-franc note due 17.05.2017, with 10-franc to follow in autumn

According to a press release dated 15 December 2016, the Swiss National Bank has announced that it will unveil the design of the new 20-franc note (B356) on 10 May 2017, with the notes entering circulation on 17 May 2017. The third denomination in the new family, the 10-franc note (B355) is slated for introduction in autumn 2017.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Dutch printer Joh. Enschedé to quit banknote production

According to reports, Dutch security printer Joh. Enschedé plans to quit banknote production due to overcapacity in the sector, and will instead focus on printing stamps and visa documents.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Norway new date (2015) 50-krone note confirmed

Norway_NB_50_kroner_2015.00.00_B652e_P46_C_301191739_f
Norway_NB_50_kroner_2015.00.00_B652e_P46_C_301191739_r
Like P46, but new date (2015).

Courtesy of Janus Juraschek.

Norway new sig/date (2014) 100-krone note confirmed

Norway_NB_100_kroner_2014.00.00_B653f_P49_C_501546955_f
Norway_NB_100_kroner_2014.00.00_B653f_P49_C_501546955_r
Like P49, but new signatures (Øystein Olsen and Trond Eklund) and new date (2014).

Norway new date (2015) 500-krone note confirmed

Norway_NB_500_kroner_2015.00.00_B655g_P51_F_402078653_fNorway_NB_500_kroner_2015.00.00_B655g_P51_F_402078653_r
Like P51, but new date (2015).

Courtesy of Marius Rosca (IBNS 11437).


Norway new note family unveiled; intro reported for mid-2017

Norges Bank has unveiled the designs of the new note series, the first two denominations (100 and 200 kroner) of which will be introduced on 30 May 2017.

Norway_NB_50_kroner_2016.00.00_B657a_PNL_A_120705031_fNorway_NB_50_kroner_2016.00.00_B657a_PNL_A_120705031_rNorway_NB_100_kroner_2016.00.00_B658a_PNL_1811612345_fNorway_NB_100_kroner_2016.00.00_B658a_PNL_1811612345_rNorway_NB_200_kroner_2016.00.00_B659a_PNL_8101109237_fNorway_NB_200_kroner_2016.00.00_B659a_PNL_8101109237_rNorway_NB_500_kroner_2016.00.00_B660a_PNL_A_120705031_fNorway_NB_500_kroner_2016.00.00_B660a_PNL_A_120705031_rNorway_NB_1000_kroner_2016.00.00_B661a_PNL_A_120705031_fNorway_NB_1000_kroner_2016.00.00_B661a_PNL_A_120705031_r

Courtesy of Cleo Has.

Greenland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 20-page catalog covers notes issued by Den Kongelige Grønlandske Handel (The Royal Greenland Trading Company) from 1803 to 1953, Styrelsen af Kolonierne i Grønland (Administration of Colonies in Greenland) in 1913, and Grønlands Styrelse (Greenland Administration) from 1926 to 1945. Published 18 November 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

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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Sweden new sig/date (2015) 500-krone note confirmed

Sweden_SR_500_kronor_2015.00.00_BNL_P73_C_040674864_f
Sweden_SR_500_kronor_2015.00.00_BNL_P73_C_040674864_r
Like P73, but new date (2015) and new signatures (Susanne Eberstein/Stefan Ingves).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Sweden new sig/date (2015) 100-krone note confirmed

Sweden_SR_100_kronor_2015.00.00_BNL_P71_C_071429815_f
Sweden_SR_100_kronor_2015.00.00_BNL_P71_C_071429815_r
Like P71, but new date (2015) and new signatures (Susanne Eberstein/Stefan Ingves).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Norway new date (2014) 200-krone note confirmed

Norway_NB_200_kroner_2014.00.00_B654g_P50_A_303128264_f
Norway_NB_200_kroner_2014.00.00_B654g_P50_A_303128264_r
Like P50, but new date (2014).

Courtesy of Stefaan Rombaut.

Scotland's Royal Bank new 5-pound polymer note confirmed

Scotland_RBS_5_pounds_2016.02.11_BNL_PNL_AY_673500_fScotland_RBS_5_pounds_2016.02.11_BNL_PNL_AY_673500_r
5 pounds
Blue, green, and orange. Front: Flower; bank logo in SPARK; Cairngorms mountain range in eastern Highlands of Scotland; quote from Nan Shepherd’s book “The Living Mountain;” poet and novelist Nan Shepherd. Back: Two mackerel fish; excerpt from Sorley MacLean’s poem “The Choice.” No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: (TDLR). 125 x 65 mm. Polymer (Safeguard). a. 11th February 2016. Prefix AY. Intro: 26.10.2016.

Switzerland new sig/date (2014) 100-franc note (B352j) confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_100_francs_2014.00.00_B352j_P72a_14_A_1817232_r
Like B352i, but new date (2014) and new signatures (80).

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Romania new date (2016) 200-leu note (B284h) confirmed

Romania_BNR_200_lei_2016.00.00_P122_164D_3423069_f
Romania_BNR_200_lei_2016.00.00_P122_164D_3423069_r
Like P122, but new date (2016).

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.


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

Hungary_MNB_20000_forint_2016.00.00_PNL_GA_5061004_f
Hungary_MNB_20000_forint_2016.00.00_PNL_GA_5061004_r
Like B586, but with new color scheme and updated security features.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Press release: The Banknote Register 2nd edition

The Banknote Register 2nd editionbr-photo2
The Banknote Register: CIS and Baltic Countries
1991-2016, General Issues
Second edition (English)

Author: Dmitry Zagorenko (IBNS #11608, General Secretary of the Russian Chapter of IBNS).
Editor: Dmitry Litvak (IBNS LM #204, President of the Russian Chapter of IBNS).
Format: A4. Weight: 1,5 Kg.
Hard cover with pressed gilding and book jacket band.
344 full-color pages (paper 115 g/m2).
16 Chapters (Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Lithuania, Moldova, Transnistria, Latvia, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Turkmenistan, Estonia).
Edition: 1000 pieces.

The Banknote Register provides the most detailed information on all emissions of paper money in post-Soviet countries from 1991 to present. It describes the history of money circulation establishment and development in the new sovereign states. The book gives detailed information on each banknote, variations and types, commemorative and souvenir issues, security features, designers, signatories, serial prefixes, images portrayed on the notes. It will be no exaggeration to say that the author with the help of collectors and staff of national banks has compiled the best known up to now data, many of which will be published for the first time, and also data unknown to many collectors. This work has resulted in compilation and classification of the most complete information on currency circulation in the post-Soviet countries.

The publication of the Register will, for sure, reduce the number of blank spaces in the history of circulation in CIS and Baltic states. Nevertheless, the author continues searching for materials and communicating with paper money collectors, museum workers, designers and bank specialists and laymen. We hope that the Register of Banknotes of CIS and Baltic Countries will encourage you as well to study actively the currency circulation in the post-Soviet countries.

Promo-video: https://youtu.be/O33FxdonxS0
Official website: http://banknote-register.com

For a $7 discount off the list price of $62, use the coupon code "BanknoteBook" when ordering the book by email. Registered shipment to any country in the world is $22, so the total discounted cost is only US$77.

Bank of Scotland new 5-pound note confirmed

Scotland_BOS_5_pounds_2016.03.25_BNL_PNL_AD_393200_f
Scotland_BOS_5_pounds_2016.03.25_BNL_PNL_AD_393200_r
On front, like the limited edition commemorative 5-pound banknote featuring Pudsey bear, but intended for general circulation and without the bear on back, which is like P124.

Courtesy of Peter Mosselberger (http://www.banknote.ws).

Sweden new 100- and 500-krona notes confirmed introduced 03.10.2016

Sweden_SR_100_kronor_2014.00.00_BNL_P71_f
Sweden_SR_100_kronor_2014.00.00_BNL_P71_r

Sweden_SR_500_kronor_2014.00.00_BNL_P73_f
Sweden_SR_500_kronor_2014.00.00_BNL_P73_r


Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new sig/date (13.02.2016) 5-pound polymer commemorative confirmed

According to an article in the Daily Record dated 27 September 2016, the Clydesdale Bank has begun withdrawing paper 5-pound notes and is now issuing a polymer 5-pound banknote, like the commemorative previously issued, but with new date (13th February 2016) and new signature of CEO David Duffy. The text on the back has also changed rom "UNESCO World Heritage Site Nomination" to "Scottish World Heritage Site Inscribed 2015," and a similar change to the front, from "UNESCO World Heritage Site Nomination" to "Scottish World Heritage Site."

Scotland_CB_5_pounds_2016.02.13_PNL_W-HS_000000_fScotland_CB_5_pounds_2016.02.13_PNL_W-HS_000000_r

Courtesy of Zbyszek Warszawski and Quality World Currency.

Luxembourg's bank museums and displays

Following a great weekend attending the Paper Money Fair in Valkenburg, The Netherlands, I journeyed on to Luxembourg City, where I visited the Head Office of the Banque et Caisse d'Epargne. Alas, I had the misfortune to visit the one day that the bank was holding a special event for its employees, and it had shoved all the banknote displays into an inaccessible corner. The most interesting installation was a mini theater in the old bank vault, which was inexplicably playing a montage of every bank heist movie ever made (not exactly building confidence in the bank's security). The bank doesn't have any items for sale, nor any take-home educational material, but it is free and worth a stop if you're in town. The exterior of the bank is quite beautiful, though the view is temporarily marred by the renovation of the Adolphe Bridge just in front.

IMG_3155
IMG_3160

Afterwards, I walked 15 minutes to the Banque Central du Luxembourg, which is housed in a very modern building. After being buzzed into the secure numismatic exhibit hall, I was greeted by a large table with many brochures detailing the security features of various euro denominations, but again, nothing was available discussing the country's prior banknote issues. They did offer for sale a huge assortment of numismatic products containing coins, however. This exhibit is also free and worth checking out if you're in the area, though I must admit i enjoyed my stroll through the nearby ravine much more.

IMG_3162

Great Britain new polymer 5-pound note confirmed

On 13 September 2016, the Bank of England introduced the first of 440 million polymer 5-pound notes printed by De La Rue. A new 10-pound polymer note featuring Jane Austen is scheduled to be introduced in mid-2017. A new 20-pound polymer note featuring J.M.W. Turner is expected in 2020. The bank has not yet decided if or when it will introduce a new 50-pound note, nor if it will be paper or polymer.

Great_Britain_BOE_5_pounds_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL_AK47_363200_f
Great_Britain_BOE_5_pounds_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL_AK47_363200_r
5 pounds
Blue. Front: Bank seal; Elizabeth Tower (aka Big Ben); coronation crown; Queen Elizabeth II. Back: Winston Churchill; maze at Blenheim Palace in green foil. Kurz’s Kinegram Colors holographic stripe. No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): None. Printer: (TDLR). 125 x 65 mm. Polymer (Innovia’s Guardian).
a. 2015. Signature Victoria Cleland. Intro: 13.09.2016.

Courtesy of Antje Bird.

Switzerland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 35-page catalog covers notes issued by Die Eidgenössische Staatskasse (The Federal Treasury) and Darlehenskasse der Schweizerischen Eidgenossenschaft (State Loan Bank of Swiss Federation) in 1914, and Schweizerische Nationalbank (Swiss National Bank) from 1907 to present. Published 9 September 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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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Scotland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 20-page catalog covers notes issued by the British Linen Bank from 1907 to 1970 and the National Commercial Bank of Scotland Limited from 1959 to 1968. Revised 2 September 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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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Gibraltar new 100-pound polymer commemorative note (B135) unveiled

Gibraltar_GOG_100_pounds_2015.08.21_B135as_PNLs_C_000000_f
Gibraltar_GOG_100_pounds_2015.08.21_B135as_PNLs_C_000000_r
According to an article on Your Gibraltar TV dated 23 August 2016, this 100-pound banknote will be put into circulation in the second half of 2016. The note is dated 21 August 2015, the centenary of the birth of Sir Joshua Hassan. Nicknamed “Salvador” (Saviour), Sir Joshua was chief minister for a total of 22 years and is credited as being the most important architect of Gibraltar’s move towards self-determination.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

Ukraine new 20-hryvnia commemorative note (BNP205) reported for 01.09.2016 introduction

According to a press release dated 26 August 2016, the National Bank of Ukraine unveiled a note commemorating the 160th birthday of the Ukrainian writer Ivan Franko. One million notes were printed and will be available beginning 1 September 2016. The note substrate has Ukrainian flax added to reduce the cost of production and increase strength. Apparently 20,000 notes will be packaged with a folder and sold as a numismatic product for 31 hryven each.

Ukraine_NBU_20_hryven_2016.00.00_BNP205as_PNLs_ЦБ_0000000_fUkraine_NBU_20_hryven_2016.00.00_BNP205as_PNLs_ЦБ_0000000_r

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Igor Tereshkov.

Poland unveils unissued Warsaw Pact notes

zloty-650_650x400_814716332534096
According to an article in The Guardian dated 19 August 2016, in the 1970s the National Bank of Poland printed stocks of banknotes denominated from 1 to 2,000 zloty. Codenamed E-17, the notes were intended to be issued in territories captured by Warsaw Pact forces. The notes will be on public display in 2017. Given that the bank last year sold albums with all 23 notes issued from 1975 to 1993, it's possible that it will eventually sell sets of the Warsaw Pact notes, too.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new date (25.01.2014) 10-pound note confirmed

Like P229J, but new date (25th January 2014). Prefix W/LB.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Faroe Islands chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 14-page catalog covers notes issued by the Faerø Amt (Faroe County) in 1940 and the Føroyar (Faroes) from 1949 to present. Published 12 August 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

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Belarus new 20-ruble variety (B139b) confirmed

Belarus_NBRB_20_rubles_2009.00.00_B139a_PNL_CI_6891320_fBelarus_NBRB_20_rubles_2009.00.00_B139b_PNL_CT_1636587_f
B139b: Like B139a, but with wider gap through center of latent image parallelogram (at center right front). There are also differences in the number of wavy lines in the lower portion of the parallelogram.

Courtesy of Maksim Kazakov.

Belarus new 5-ruble variety (B137b) confirmed

Belarus_NBRB_5_rubles_2009.00.00_B137a_PNL_AE_3234157_fBelarus_NBRB_5_rubles_2009.00.00_B137b_PNL_AT_9490494_f
B137b: Like B137a, but no gap to left of latent image parallelogram (at center right front).

Courtesy of Maksim Kazakov.

Belarus new ruble family confirmed introduced 01.07.2016

The Belarusian ruble was redenominated per an Edict of the President of the Republic of Belarus No. 450 dated 4 November 2015, with existing notes (called the 2000 series) exchanged for new ones (called the 2009 series) at a rate of 10,000:1. A total of seven denominations of banknotes–5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 rubles–and eight denominations of coins–1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 copecks, and 1 and 2 rubles–were introduced on 1 July 2016.
The general concept of the new notes is “Belarus is my country,” with each denomination dedicated to one of the regions of Belarus and the city of Minsk: 5 rubles dedicated to Brest region, 10 rubles to Vitebsk region, 20 rubles to Gomel region, 50 rubles to Grodno region, 100 rubles to Minsk region, 200 rubles to Mogilev region, and 500 rubles to the city of Minsk.
From 1 July 2016 to 31 December 2016, the banknotes of the 2000 series and the banknotes and coins of the 2009 series circulate in parallel and are subject to obligatory acceptance without restriction in all kinds of payments performed by all economic entities. During the next five years–from 1 January 2017 through 31 December 2021–the currency units of the 2000 series will be exchanged for the currency units of the 2009 series in any sum without restriction and charging commission, after which time the 2000 series will be deemed invalid and demonetized.
The redenomination was taken with a view to improving money circulation, streamlining accounting and settlements, maintaining the optimal structure of money denominations, as well as reducing public expenditures on servicing cash circulation in the Republic of Belarus to a significant degree.
The National Bank of the Republic of Belarus ordered the “new” notes from De La Rue in 2008, but due to the global economic crisis of the time, the redenomination was postponed and the freshly printed notes were stored in the bank’s vaults. As such, the notes to be issued in 2016 bear the series date of 2009 and the facsimile signature of Petr P. Prokopovich, the then chairman of the board of the bank. Also, the new 50-ruble note carries an inscription which is inconsistent with currently applicable Belarusian spelling rules. These inconsistencies will be addressed as new notes are ordered from the printer.

Belarus_NBRB_5_rubles_2009.00.00_B137a_PNL_AK_8704123_f
Belarus_NBRB_5_rubles_2009.00.00_B137a_PNL_AK_8704123_r

Belarus_NBRB_10_rubles_2009.00.00_B138a_PNL_BE_8882415_f
Belarus_NBRB_10_rubles_2009.00.00_B138a_PNL_BE_8882415_r

Belarus_NBRB_20_rubles_2009.00.00_B139a_PNL_CX_2646527_f
Belarus_NBRB_20_rubles_2009.00.00_B139a_PNL_CX_2646527_r

Belarus_NBRB_50_rubles_2009.00.00_B140a_PNL_HM_8090918_f
Belarus_NBRB_50_rubles_2009.00.00_B140a_PNL_HM_8090918_r

Belarus_NBRB_100_rubles_2009.00.00_B141as_PNL_EK_7071189_f
Belarus_NBRB_100_rubles_2009.00.00_B141as_PNL_EK_7071189_r

Belarus_NBRB_200_rubles_2009.00.00_B142as_PNL_KB_2635237_f
Belarus_NBRB_200_rubles_2009.00.00_B142as_PNL_KB_2635237_r

Belarus_NBRB_500_rubles_2009.00.00_B143as_PNL_MK_7572880_f
Belarus_NBRB_500_rubles_2009.00.00_B143as_PNL_MK_7572880_r

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Vitali Khaletski, Cleo Phas, Albert Vokhmin, and Александр Чижевский.

Romania new date (2016) 100-leu note (B283g) confirmed

Romania_BNR_100_lei_2016.00.00_P121_162F_1067041_r
Like P121, but new date (2016).

Courtesy of Costing Iorgu (http://www.banknotesworldshop.com), Marian Alionte, and Daniel Mendea.

European Monetary Union new 50-euro note (B111) unveiled

On 5 July 2016, the European Central Bank unveiled the design of the new 50-euro note due to be introduced into circulation on 4 April 2017. This is the fourth denomination in the new Europa series.

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_50_euros_2017.00.00_B111_P23_fEuropean_Monetary_Union_ECB_50_euros_2017.00.00_B111_P23_r

Royal Bank of Scotland new sig/date (31.01.2016) 20-pound note confirmed

Scotland_RBS_20_pounds_2016.01.31_P354_C-47_431979_f
Like P354, but new signature (Ross McEwan) and new date (31st JANUARY 2016). Prefix C/47.

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

European Central Bank to unveil new 50-euro note on 05.07.2016

According to a press release dated 16 June 2016, the European Central Bank plans to unveil the new Europa series 50-euro banknote on 5 July 2016, with introduction into circulation in the first half of 2017.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new sig/date (16.08.2015) 50-pound note confirmed

Scotland_CB_50_pounds_2015.08.16_P229Lb_W-HU_107500_f
Scotland_CB_50_pounds_2015.08.16_P229Lb_W-HU_107500_r
Like P229L, but new signature (David J. Duffy) and new date (16th August 2015). Prefix W/HU. Intro: June 2016.

Courtesy of Andrew Balsillie.

Poland new 500-złoty note reported for February 2017 introduction



Poland_NBP_500_zlotych_2016.02.16_B864a_PNL_AA_0024006_f
Poland_NBP_500_zlotych_2016.02.16_B864a_PNL_AA_0024006_r
According to a Polish-language press release dated 6 June 2016, the National Bank of Poland intends to introduce a new 500-złoty note with a portrait of King Jan III Sobieski (John Sobieski), thereby keeping with the theme of the other denominations which feature “The monarchs of Poland.” The new note was designed by Andrzej Heidrich, the artist responsible for all other notes in this family. The introduction of this larger denomination is intended to cut costs and streamline economic transactions.


Great Britain new 5-pound polymer note unveiled for 13.09.2016 introduction

Great_Britain_BOE_5_pounds_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA225_665909_f
Great_Britain_BOE_5_pounds_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA225_665909_r
The Bank of England has printed 440 million polymer 5-pound notes it plans to introduce 13 September 2016. A new 10-pound polymer note featuring Jane Austen is scheduled to be introduced in mid-2017. A new 20-pound polymer note featuring J.M.W. Turner is expected in 2020. The bank has not yet decided if or when it will introduce a new 50-pound note, nor if it will be paper or polymer.

Courtesy of Antje Bird.


Serbia new sig/date (2016) 5,000-dinara note (B422) confirmed

Serbia_NBS_5000_dinara_2016.00.00_B422a_PNL_AA_0009292_f
Serbia_NBS_5000_dinara_2016.00.00_B422a_PNL_AA_0009297_r
B422: Like B413, but new date (2016), new signature (Jorgovanka Tabaković), and the national coat of arms on back is more detailed, in accordance with the Decree on Establishing the Original Great and Small Coat-of-Arms, Flag and National Anthem of the Republic of Serbia, No. 85 of 15 November 2010.

Courtesy of .

European Central Bank to retire 500-euro note (B107) in 2018

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_500_euros_2002.00.00_B107z1_P7z_Z_93000715911_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_500_euros_2002.00.00_B107z1_P7z_Z_93000715911_r
According to a press release dated 4 May 2016, the European Central Bank will discontinue production and issuance of the 500-euro banknote (B107) in 2018, though existing notes will remain legal tender. The new Europa series will not include the 500-euro denomination.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Scotland new 5- and 10-pound polymer note designs unveiled

Scotland_RBS_5_pounds_2016.02.11_BNL_PNL_AA_123456_f
Scotland_RBS_5_pounds_2016.02.11_BNL_PNL_AA_123456_r

Scotland_RBS_10_pounds_2016.12.26_BNL_PNL_AA_123456_f
Scotland_RBS_10_pounds_2016.12.26_BNL_PNL_AA_123456_r
According to a Royal Bank of Scotland press release dated 25 April 2016, Scottish poet and novelist Nan Shepherd will appear on a new batch of polymer £5 notes. The writer joins scientist Mary Somerville, who was chosen for the new £10 note in a public poll, meaning women will feature on RBS main issue notes for the first time. Shepherd was an English lecturer at Aberdeen College of Education but also wrote novels, poetry and non-fiction, with the Scottish landscape and weather a major influence on her work. The back of the new notes have a nature theme with two mackerel displayed on the £5 note and two otters on the £10.

The new 5-pound note will be introduced later in 2016, and the 10-pound note will be introduced in 2017.

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.



England new 20-pound note reported for 2020 introduction

turner_l
According to a press release dated 22 April 2016, the Bank of England has announced that J.M.W. Turner will appear on the next 20-pound polymer banknote due to be issued by 2020.

Commenting on the decision, Bank of England Governor, Mark Carney said: “I am delighted to announce that J.M.W. Turner has been chosen to appear on the next £20 note. Turner is perhaps the single most influential British artist of all time. His work was transformative, bridging the classical and modern worlds. His influence spanned his lifetime and is still apparent today. Turner bequeathed this painting to the nation, an example of his important contribution to British society."

As shown in the concept image, the design on the reverse of the note will include:

  • J.M.W. Turner’s self-portrait, painted c. 1799 and currently on display in the Tate Britain.
  • One of Turner’s most eminent paintings The Fighting Temeraire; a tribute to the ship HMS Temeraire which played a distinguished role in Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
  • The quote - “Light is therefore colour” from an 1818 lecture by Turner referring to his innovative use of light, shade, colour and tone in his pictures.
  • Turner’s signature from his Will, the document with which he bequeathed many of his paintings to the nation.

The full design of the note and its security features will be unveiled closer to it entering circulation.

Courtesy of Antje Bird, James Cadman, and Mark Irwin.

Poland new 20-zlotych commemorative (BNP820) confirmed introduced on 12.04.2016

According to the Narodowy Bank Pokski's prospectus for 2016, in April 2016 the bank planned to introduce 30,000 pieces of a 20-zlotych banknote commemorating the 1,050th anniversary of the “Baptism of Poland,” when King Miezko I and the majority of his court were baptized in 966 AD.

The bank has more recently posted a notice on its site indicating that up to 35,000 pieces of the note will be introduced on 12 April 2016.

Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2015.11.23_BNP820a_PNL_AB_0022058_f
Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2015.11.23_BNP820a_PNL_AB_0022058_r
BNP820 (PNL): 20 złotych (US$6.55)
Blue and red. Front: Coat of arms with crowned eagle; Dobrawa (Doubravka of Bohemia) and King Miezko I; ornate cross; floor plan of church as registration device. Back: Floor plan of church; Gniezno Cathedral; royal chalice of Trzemeszno. Windowed security thread with demetalized NBP 20. Watermark: Unknown with electrotype 20. Printer: (PWPW). 144 x 77 mm.
a. 23 LISTOPADA 2015. Signature 17. Prefix AB. Intro: 12.04.2016.

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


Romania new date (2016) 50-leu note (B282f) confirmed

Romania_BNR_50_lei_2005.07.01_P120_166D_8531804_f
Romania_BNR_50_lei_2005.07.01_P120_166D_8531804_r
Like P120, but new date (20)16.

Courtesy of Alexandru Mocanu.

Ukraine new sig/date (2015) 10-hryvnia note (B848d) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_10_hryven_2015.00.00_B848d_P119A_XГ_9330134_f
Ukraine_NBU_10_hryven_2015.00.00_B848d_P119A_XГ_9330134_r
B848d: Like B848c, but new date (2015) and new signature (Valeriia O. Gontareva). Prefix XГ.

Courtesy of Svitlana Romashko.


Ukraine new 500-hryvnia note (B855) confirmed

According to a press release dated 25 December 2015, on 11 April 2016 the National Bank of Ukraine introduced a new 500-hryvnia note with enhanced security features, including windowed security thread and SPARK patch.

Ukraine_NBU_500_hryven_2015.00.00_B855a_PNL_XA_6674674_fUkraine_NBU_500_hryven_2015.00.00_B855a_PNL_XA_6674674_r
B855 (PNL): 500 гривень (hryven) (US$23)
Beige, brown, green, blue, and pink. Front: Philosopher, poet, writer, pedagogue, and musician Hryhorii Skovoroda; coat of arms; fountain; open book with quill as gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Mohyla Academy building in Kiev; academy seal. Motion windowed security thread with demetalized 500. Solid security thread with demetalized 500 ГРН and trident. Watermark: Hryhorii Skovoroda and electrotype hyrvnia symbol (backwards S with two horizontal bars). Printer: (NBU). 154 x 75 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 9. Intro: 11.04.2016.

Courtesy of Svitlana Romashko.

Switzerland new 50-franc note confirmed

According to a press release dated 6 April 2016, the Swiss National Bank has unveiled the design of the new 50-franc note, the first denomination in a new series of notes inspired by the theme "The many facets of Switzerland." The new family consists of the same denominations as the existing family, but the notes are reduced in size for easier handling. The 50-franc note measuring 70 x 137 mm was introduced on 12 April 2016.



Switzerland_SNB_50_francs_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL_15_N_2348502_fSwitzerland_SNB_50_francs_2015.00.00_BNL_PNL_15_N_2348502_r

"Each denomination depicts a typically Swiss characteristic, which is then illustrated graphically using a range of elements. The 50-franc note focuses on the wealth of experiences Switzerland has to offer – expressed by the wind, the note’s key motif. Core design elements in the new series are the hand and the globe, which appear on every denomination."

"The new notes were designed by Manuela Pfrunder and printed by Orell Füssli Security Printing Ltd using an innovative, three-layer banknote substrate. The combination of complex security features and sophisticated design provides state-of-the-art anti-counterfeiting protection. The new series equips Switzerland with banknotes that are both more modern and more secure than the previous generation.
The next denomination, the 20-franc note, will be issued in spring 2017. The remaining notes in the series will be issued subsequently at half-yearly or yearly intervals. The SNB will announce each new issue date well in advance. Issuance of the entire series is scheduled to be completed by 2019."

Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Manfred Wolfensberger, Christof Zellweger, Antje Bird, Marco Pache, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).

Russia new 200- and 2,000-ruble notes reported for late 2017 introduction

According to a press release dated 12 April 2016, the Bank of Russia plans to introduce new 200- and 2,000-ruble notes by the end of 2017. These entirely new denominations are expected to enhance the convenience of cash payments, and will save time when paying for goods and services.

The current Russian banknotes depict the characters of Russian cities and regions, and this tradition will continue with the new notes, but for the first time the Russian public will get to vote on the new designs in the summer of 2016.

Courtesy of Artem Shevchenko and Alexander Petrov.

Moldova national bank appoints new governor as of 11.03.2016

Sergiu Cioclea has been named the new governor of the National Bank of Moldova effective 11 March 2016.

Courtesy of Alex Klark.

Guernsey new signature 1-pound note confirmed

Guernsey_SOG_1_pound_2016.00.00_P52_X_900057_fGuernsey_SOG_1_pound_2016.00.00_P52_X_900057_r
Like P52c, but new signature (Bethan Haines). Prefix X.

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


England to unveil new polymer 5-pound note design on 02.06.2016

According to a press release dated 10 March 2016, the Bank of England will unveil the design of the new polymer 5-pound banknote on 2 June 2016. The note will be introduced in September 2016, and the existing paper 5-pound note will be gradually withdrawn thereafter. The polymer 10-pound note featuring Jane Austen will be introduced in late 2017 and a new polymer 20-pound note will be introduced by 2020.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

Scotland announces scientist Mary Somerville to appear on new 10-pound note

According to an article in The Guardian dated 10 February 2016, the new polymer 10-pound note scheduled to issued in 2017 by the Royal Bank of Scotland will feature a portrait of scientist Mary Somerville, making her the first woman other than a royal to appear on an RBS banknote.

Courtesy of Mark Irwin and David Hunter.

Challenge: Identify statue on Northern Ireland notes

Northern_Ireland_FTB_10_pounds_1994.01.10_B801a_P132a_AB_000519_statue
If you can precisely identify the proper name and location of the statue above—or have a lead which you think might be useful—please send me an email, preferably including a URL which links to evidence supporting your identification. This same statue appears at center front of Northern Ireland B615 to B808.

According to Diarmuid Curran, it's a generic vignette of Hibernia. Can anyone confirm or refute this assertion?

Poland new 200-złoty note (B863) confirmed

Poland_NBP_200_zlotych_2015.03.30_B863a_PNL_AC_3308523_f
Poland_NBP_200_zlotych_2015.03.30_B863a_PNL_AC_3308523_r
According to a press release, on 12 February 2016 Narodowy Bank Polski introduced a new 200-złoty note (B863), like earlier issues, but slightly redesigned and with improved anti-counterfeiting features, including Omron rings and RollingStar Cube security thread.

Courtesy of Jan Bogus.

Royal Bank of Scotland names 3 scientists as candidates for new 10-pound polymer note

According to a press release dated 31 January 2015, "Royal Bank of Scotland has named three Scottish scientists, two men and one woman, on the shortlist of candidates to appear on its first plastic 10 pound note.

The three are physicist James Clerk Maxwell, Mary Somerville, the first female member of the Royal Astronomical Society, and civil engineer Thomas Telford, known as the "Colossus of Roads".

More than 400 people took part in the selection of the 128 nominees, who had to be Scottish historical figures or people who had made a major contribution to Scotland in science and innovation.

Maxwell (1831-1879), a hero of Albert Einstein, discovered the unified theory of electricity and magnetism.

Somerville (1780-1872) was a pioneer as a female scientist when women’s participation was discouraged. Her writings ultimately led to the discovery of the planet Neptune.

Telford (1757-1843) built more than 1,000 miles of roads in his lifetime and in Scotland designed harbors, tunnels and the Caledonian Canal.

The decision on who to put on new banknotes can be controversial. The Bank of England was criticized in 2013 for the removal of the only female figure on its notes, social reformer Elizabeth Fry. Novelist Jane Austen was subsequently chosen to appear on new 10 pound notes."


Denmark new date (2015) 100-krone note (B936d) confirmed

Denmark_DN_100_kroner_2015.00.00_B936d_P66_B2_233934_E_f
B936d: Like B936c, but new date (2015) and new prefix B2.

Courtesy of Frede Hansen.

Norway unveils designs of new "The Sea" note family

On 7 October 2014, Norges Bank (Norway’s central bank) presented the results of its ongoing banknote competition. The new theme will be “The Sea.” A press release revealed the proposed design for the 100-kroner note. The first notes from the new series are not expected to be issued until 2017 at the earliest.

Subsequently on 3 February 2015,
Norges Bank unveiled the designs for the remaining denominations. The fronts of the notes will be developed on the basis of the proposal from The Metric System and Terje Tønnessen. The backs of the notes will be the pixel motifs submitted by Snøhetta Design. Please note that the designs of the finished notes may deviate somewhat from the competition proposals as shown below.

On each obverse side, the designer has placed a signal flag from the maritime alphabet. The flags represent the letters N, O, R, G and E and therefore spell either NORGE or NOREG (not in order by denomination).

The cubic patterns on the reverse side represent pixels and mosaics. The patterns depict the coast, the horizon and the motif. The organic pattern is an abstraction of the sea. Both the cubic and organic patterns follow the Beaufort scale as an expression of wind speed. This affects the waves in the sea. On the lowest denomination note, the wind is light, and there are short cubic forms and long, gentle waves in the organic pattern. On the highest denomination note, the wind is strong and creates elongated rectangular forms and short waves.

Norway_NB_50_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_f
Motif: Utvær Lighthouse in Sogn og Fjordane, Norway's westernmost point. Signal flag: Letter R.

Norway_NB_50_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_r
Pixel motif on the horizon: Lighthouse on the horizon. Cubic pattern: 1.6 metres per second (m/s). Organic pattern: Light breeze, gentle waves.


Norway_NB_100_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_f
Motif: The Gokstad ship from the 800s, with the Norwegian-designed X-Bow hull developed by Ulstein Design & Solutions AS in the background. Signal flag: Letter O.


Norway_NB_100_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_r
Pixel motif on the horizon: Cargo ship. Cubic pattern: 3.4 m/s. Organic pattern: Gentle breeze. Crests begin to break.



Norway_NB_200_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_f
Motif: Cod and herring. The background drawing shows mesh from a fishing net. Signal flag: Letter N.


Norway_NB_200_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_r
Pixel motif on the horizon: Fishing boat. Cubic pattern: 8 m/s. Organic pattern: Fresh breeze. Wave heights of 1 m or more.



Norway_NB_500_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_f
Colin Archer, boat design. Anders Beer Wilse, photographer. Linn Krogh Hansen, photographer.


Norway_NB_500_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_r
Pixel motif on the horizon: Oil platform. Cubic pattern: 13.9 m/s. Organic pattern: High wind. Sea heaps up, white foam from breaking waves.



Norway_NB_1000_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_f
Motif: Wave in the sea. Signal flag: Letter E.


Norway_NB_1000_kroner_2014.00.00_PNL_r
Pixel motif: Horizon. Cubic pattern: 20.8 m/s. Organic pattern: Strong gale. High waves. Dense foam is blown along wind direction.

Courtesy of Josema Peso.


Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 10-pound polymer note unveiled

Scotland_CB_10_pounds_2017.01.25_BNL_PNL_HS_012345_f
On 22 January 2016, David Duffy, chief executive officer at Clydesdale Bank, unveiled the redesigned polymer 10-pound note featuring a portrait of Robert Burns on the front and views of Edinburgh and its castle on the back. The new note is expected to be introduced in 2017.

Courtesy of David Hunter.


Frank van Tiel collection to be auctioned by MPO on 29.01.2016

2016.01.29_MOP_auction_cover
On 29 January 2016, MPO, the Dutch affiliate of Heritage Auctions in Dallas, Texas, will auction the Frank van Tiel collection of Dutch and world banknotes. Frank has been a long-time contributor to The Banknote Book, and this auction features many better notes, both old and modern. Check it out, and bid to win!

Georgia new 20-, 50-, and 100-lari notes (B256 - B258) to be issued in Feb. 2016


According to a press release dated 3 November 2015, the National Bank of Georgia has unveiled designs of new 20-, 50-, and 100-lari banknotes to be introduced in February 2016. Designed by Bacha Malazonia, the notes have revised designs/colors/dimensions and security features enhanced with assistance from De La Rue (England), Giesecke & Devrient (Germany), and Oberthur Fiduciare (France), although the bank has not disclosed which firm actually printed the notes. The 5- and 10-lari notes will be upgraded “later.”

Georgia_NBG_20_lari_2016.00.00_B256as_PNL_AA_12345678_f
Georgia_NBG_20_lari_2016.00.00_B256as_PNL_AA_12345678_r
B256 (PNL): 20 lari (US$12)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; magenta-to-green SPARK ornament; publishing house; magazine Sakartvelos Moambe and newspaper Iveria; personal belongings, including lens, watch, pen, and inkpot; publisher Ilia Chavchavadze. Back: Panorama of old Tbilisi featuring the Narikala fortress; equestrian monument to King Vakhtang Gorgasali; map of Tbilisi in the 18th century (prepared by Vakhushti Batonishvili); coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with Ilia Chavchavadze, 20, phaeton (horse-drawn carriage), and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-gold windowed security thread with demetalized 20 ლარი. Watermark: Ilia Chavchavadze with electrotype 20 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 132 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.

Georgia_NBG_50_lari_2016.00.00_B257as_PNL_AA_12345678_f
Georgia_NBG_50_lari_2016.00.00_B257as_PNL_AA_12345678_r
B257 (PNL): 50 lari (US$30)
Green. Front: Denomination as registration device; green-to-gold SPARK ornament; cave monastery in Vardzia; King Tamar; XIII-century bas-relief from Pitareti Virgin Mari Monastery. Back: Astrological sign of Sagittarius from a Georgian miniature manuscript of the XII century; coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with King Tamar, 50, lari symbol, griffin, and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 50 ლარი. Watermark: King Tamar with electrotype 50 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 137 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.

Georgia_NBG_100_lari_2016.00.00_B258as_PNL_AA_12345678_f
Georgia_NBG_100_lari_2016.00.00_B258as_PNL_AA_12345678_r
B258 (PNL): 100 lari (US$59)
Violet. Front: Denomination as registration device; magenta-to-green SPARK ornament; poet Shota Rustaveli; VII-century bas-relief of biblical story “Daniel in the Den of Lions” from Martvili Cathedral of Assumption of the Virgin Mary; poem “The Knight in the Tiger Skin.” Back: Gas lamp post; the Zakaria Paliashvili Tbilisi State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet on Freedom Square in Tbilisi; coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with Shota Rustaveli, 100, lari symbol, flowers, and map of Georgia. Blue-to-red windowed security thread with demetalized 100 ლარი. Watermark: Shota Rustaveli with electrotype 100 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 142 x 70 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas, Albert Vokhmin, and Malkhaz Shvelidze.

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.

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).

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

Like B278i, but new date (20)15.

Courtesy of Alexandru Mocanu.

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).


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.

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.

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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.

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.

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).

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."

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.


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).

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).



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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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).

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).

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.

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).

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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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Like B284e, but new date (2014).

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.


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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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.

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.

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

Like B284f, but new date (2015).

Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

Sweden unveils new designs for new notes due in October 2015

20_new_sedel_specimen_fram
20_new_sedel_specimen_bak

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.

Romania new date (2013) 5-leu note (B279f) confirmed

Like B279e, but new date (2013).

Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe.

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.

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.

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.

Subscribe
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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.

Denmark new date (2012) 500-kroner note confirmed

500 kroner, (20)12. Like P68, but new date. Prefix A4.

Courtesy of Tristan Williams.

Ukraine new 100-hryvnia note to be issued 09.03.2015

Ukraine_NBU_100_hryven_2015.03.09_BNL_PNL
According to a press release dated 29 December 2014, on 9 March 2015 the National Bank of Ukraine will introduce a redesigned 100-hryvnia note with enhanced security features, including windowed security thread and SPARK patch. The date of introduction is the 201st birthday of Taras Shevchenko, the artist whose portait appears on the front of the note. The new notes will circulate in parallel with the current issues of the same denomination (NBU B51).

Courtesy of Cleo Phas, Johan Colpa, and Sev Onyshkevych.

Ukraine new sig/date (2014) 1-hryvnia note (B844c) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_1_hryvnia_2014.00.00_B44c_P116A_CA_2214544_sig
1 гривня (hryvnia), 2014. Like B844b, but new date and signature (Valeriya Hontareva).

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

European Monetary Union to unveil new 20-euro note on 24.02.2015

According to a press release dated 19 December 2014, on 24 February 2015 the European Central Bank will unveil the new Europa series 20-euro note design with improved security features.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas.

Switzerland national bank governing board changes announced

According to a press release dated 17 December 2014, the Swiss Federal Council appointed Fritz Zurbrügg as the new Vice Chairman of the Governing Board of the Swiss National Bank (SNB). Mr Zurbrügg, who is currently Member of the Governing Board and Head of Department III at the SNB, will take up his new position, and with it the post of Head of Department II, with effect from 1 July 2015.

Also with effect from 1 July 2015, the Federal Council has appointed Andréa Maechler, currently Deputy Division Chief in the Global Markets Analysis Division of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, as new Member of the Governing Board. Ms Maechler will occupy the Board position vacated by Jean-Pierre Danthine, who relinquishes his post at the end of June 2015 upon reaching retirement age. Ms Maechler will become the Head of Department III.

These board changes may result in new signature varieties on Swiss notes.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Hungary new 10,000-forint note (B591) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_10000_forint_2014.00.00_PNL_AG_4324282_f
Hungary_MNB_10000_forint_2014.00.00_PNL_AG_4324282_r
On 2 September 2014, the Magyar Nemze Bank released a revised 10,000-forint note (B591) like the current issue (B585), but with new color scheme and updated security features. This is the first denomination to be revised, but the bank intends to update all denominations by 2018.

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

Russia to issue 100-ruble Crimea commemorative note in 2015

According to an article on Lentra.ru dated 8 December 2014, the Central Bank of the Russian Federation has confirmed it intends to may issue a 100-ruble banknote commemorating the Crimea in 2015.

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.

Ukraine new signature 200-hryvnia note (B852e) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_200_hryven_2014.00.00_B52e_P123_TA_0708342_sig
On 1 December 2014 the National Bank of Ukraine issued a 200-hryvnia note like B852d, but with the signature of Valeriia O. Gontareva, who took over as governor from Stepan Kubiv on 19 June 2014.

Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko and Mykhaylo Kharytonov.

Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new sig/date (01.01.2006) 10-pound note confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_10_pounds_2006.01.01_P336_E_4984528_sig
10 pounds, 1st JANUARY 2006. Like P336, but new date and new signature (McCarthy). Prefix E.

Courtesy of Mark Irwin.

Austrian note printing firm in scandal involving Azerbaijan and Syria

A Washington Post article dated 15 November 2014 details the allegations of bribery behind Austria's banknote printing firm, Oesterreichische Banknoten-und Sicherheitsdruck, and its efforts to win bids to produce currency for Azerbaijan and Syria.

Northern Ireland First Trust new date (01.06.2009) 20-pound note confirmed

20 pounds, 1st JUNE 2009. Like P137, but new date.

Courtesy of "Peter" Shih, Yu-Yu.

Ukraine new signature 1- and 200-hryvnia notes to be issued December 2014

According to an article on MinFin.com.ua dated 27 October 2014, on 1 December 2014 the National Bank of Ukraine will issue a 200-hryvnia note like NBU B52, but with the signature of Valeriia O. Gontareva, who took over as governor from Stepan Kubiv on 19 June 2014. The new signature will also appear on the 1-hryvnia note to be issued on 22 December 2014.

Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko.

Denmark to outsource note and coin production in 2016

According to a press release dated 21 October 2014, Danmarks Nationalbank will discontinue the internal production of banknotes and coins in 2016, due to declining demand for cash. By outsourcing the production to a third-party, the bank is expected to save 100 million kr. until 2020.

Scotland new sig/date (30.11.2010) 5- and 10-pound notes confirmed

5 pounds, 30th NOVEMBER 2010. Like P352, but new date and new signature (Stephen Hester).

10 pounds, 30th NOVEMBER 2010. Like P353, but new date and new signature (Stephen Hester).

Courtesy of Tomasz Jazwinski.

Moldova new date (2013) 1-leu note confirmed

1 leu, 2013. Like B108, but new date.

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.

Ukraine new sig/date (2014) 200-hryvnia note (B852d) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_200_hryven_2014.00.00_B52d_P123_CB_5669707_sig
200 гривень (hryven), 2014. Like B852c, but new date and signature (Stepan Kubiv).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Denmark new sig/date (2013) 50-krone notes confirmed

Denmark_DN_50_kroner_2013.00.00_P65_B0_011043_C_sig
Denmark_DN_50_kroner_2013.00.00_P65_B0_511045_H_sig
50 kroner, (20)13. Like P65, but new date and new signatures. Prefix B0.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Hungary new 5,000-forint note (B587) reported

Hungary_MNB_5000_forint_0000.00.00_PNL_f
Hungary_MNB_5000_forint_0000.00.00_PNL_r
This undated, unsigned, and unnumbered 5,000-forint note is similar to P199. I personally examined the note at the recent show in Valkenburg and can confirm that it is intaglio printed on high-quality security paper complete with watermarks, holographic stripe, and other security features.

Rumor was that a pack of unfinished notes was stolen from the printer (Pénzjegynyomda Rt.) and that this denomination will be issued shortly as the second member of the new note family started with the introduction of the 10,000-forint on 2 September 2014.

However, I recently received the following email from the bank's Communication and Protocol Department: "The undated, unsigned, and unnumbered 5,000-forint note published on your website is a trial print of the previous years used for testing purposes, representing no value. This banknote specimen is not part of the new forint banknote series issued by Magyar Nemzeti Bank (the central bank of Hungary)."

Norway announced "The Sea" will be theme of new notes

valgtmotiv
On 7 October 2014, Norges Bank (Norway’s central bank) presented the results of its ongoing banknote competition. The new theme will be “The Sea.” A press release revealed the proposed design for the 100-kroner note. The first notes from the new series are not expected to be issued until 2017 at the earliest.

Courtesy of Marcus Jansson and Håkon Meidell-Pritzier Hagelund.

Switzerland's new note introduction delayed again until 2016

According to an article on Handelszeitung dated 1 October 2014, the Swiss National Bank has again delayed the introduction of its new note series due to production problems. The new series was originally slated for introduction in autumn 2010, then delayed to 2012, postponed to 2013, pushed back to 2015, and now isn't expected to be released to the public until 2016.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas.

Belarus 50-ruble notes to be withdrawn on 01.06.2015

According to a press release dated 22 September 2014, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus will withdraw 50-ruble notes dated 2000 (NBRB B25 and B34) on 1 June 2015.

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.

Serbia new sig/date (2014) 1,000-dinar note confirmed

1,000 dinara (2014), like NBS B20, but new date and new signature (Jorgovanka Tabaković).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

European Monetary Union new 10-euro note confirmed

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_10_euros_2014.00.00_B9p3_PNL_PA_2881901096_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_10_euros_2014.00.00_B9p3_PNL_PA_2881901096_r
ECB B9 (PNL): 10 euros (US$14)
Red. Front: Flag; Romanesque architecture. Back: Bridge; map. Holographic stripe. Solid security thread with demetalized 10 EURO. Watermark: Head of Europa and electrotype 10. Printer: Various (see code chart). 127 x 67 mm. Confirmed with prefix E, N, P, S, U, V, X, Y, all with signature 3.

Courtesy of Don Ludwig and The Currency Exchange.

Switzerland new sig/date (2012) 20-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_20_francs_2012.00.00_P69_12_J_1874567_Studeer_Danthine_sig
20 francs, (20)12. Like P69, but new date and signatures (Studer/Danthine).

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Trans-Dniester new numismatic products confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2014.00.00_BNP3a_PNL_TT_0001501_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_5_rubles_2014.00.00_BNP4a_PNL_TT_0002020_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_2014.00.00_BNP5a_PNL_TT_0002020_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_25_rubles_2014.00.00_BNP6a_PNL_TT_0001500_f
On 22 August 2014, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank issued 1-, 5-, 10-, and 25-ruble banknotes commemorating 20 years of national currency. 2,020 copies of each denomination were sold in folders. The notes are like the regular issues of 2012, but with a commemorative rosette over the watermark area at lower right front.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (http://www.banknoten.de) and Albert Vokhmin.

Denmark new date (2012) 1,000-krone note confirmed

1,00 kroner, (20)12. Like P69, but new date. Prefix A5.

Courtesy of Frede Hansen.

Albania arrests governor of central bank

According to a Reuters article dated 5 September 2014, Ardian Fullani, governor of the Banka e Shqiperise (Bank of Albania) since 28 October 2004, was arrested by the State Police on charges of abuse of office after the theft of 713 million lek (US$6.63 million) from the bank vaults over four years by bank employee Ardian Bitfaj.

According to the bank's press release dated 6 September 2014, the supervisory council of the bank recommends the dismissal of Fullani. If that should come to pass, collectors can expect new signature varieties as the governor's signature has appeared on all notes issued during the past decade.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Ukraine new sig/date (2014) 500-hryvnia note (B853c) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_500_hryven_2014.00.00_B53c_P124_CБ_7928261_sig
500 гривень (hryven), 2014. Like B853b, but new date and new signature (Stepan Kubiv). Intro: 01.09.2014.

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

Bulgaria 2-leva note to be replaced by coin in 2015

Bulgaria_BNB_2_leva_2005.00.00_P115b_ЯA_3397989_f
According to an article on Novinite.com dated 1 September 2014, the Bulgarian National Bank intends to replace the 2-leva banknote (P115) with a coin starting in 2015. The notes will remain legal tender, but will be withdrawn from circulation as they wear out.


Denmark new sig/date (2013) 200-krone note confirmed

Denmark_DN_200_kroner_2013.00.00_P67_A7_695405B_sig
200 kroner, (20)13. Like P67, but new date and new signatures (Lars Rohde and Lars G. Sorensen). Prefix A7.

Courtesy of Frede Hansen.

Trans-Dniester replaces low-denomination notes with composite coins

On 22 August 2014, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank issued new 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-ruble coins which replace the low-denomination banknotes (TDRB B9-B11, respectively). These "coins" are made of an unspecified composite material and have ultraviolet and infrared security elements. Because they bear images taken from the notes which they replace and are unusual, they are illustrated below as curiosities, but they are not considered banknotes and hence not assigned catalog numbers.

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_ruble_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_3_rubles_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_3_rubles_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_5_rubles_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_5_rubles_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_2014.00.00_BNL_PNL_AA_r


Russia refuses to ban "pornographic" 100-ruble note

Russia_CBR_100_rubles_2004.00.00_B24a_P270c_Aэ_7783353_f
According to an RT.com article dated 8 July 2014, nationalist party MP Roman Khudyakovof has urged Банк России (Bank of Russia) to change the design of the 100-ruble note because it depicts the penis of the Greek god Apollo, in violation of Russia's 2010 law designed to protect children from "information that could be harmful to their health and development."

The note depicts a statute of Apollo riding a chariot above the pediment of Moscow's Bolshoi Theatre. During renovations of the Bolshoi, a fig leaf was added to the statue, covering Apollo's genitals, so Khudyakovof argues that not only is the note pornographic, it's no longer an accurate representation of the statue as it currently exists.

The image first appeared on the 100,000-ruble note dated 1995 (CBR B14) and is now seen on the current note dated 2004 (CBR B24).

According to an article in The Telegraph dated 22 August 2014, the central bank has refused the appeal to withdraw or revise the note, claiming it is not pornographic and the image is too small to be offensive.

Poland new 20-zlotych polymer commemorative confirmed

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Polish Legions, the National Bank of Poland issued a new 20-złoty polymer note on 5 August 2014. Up to 50,000 notes will be packaged in a folder and sold for a premium. This note was designed by Andrzej Heidrich, based upon the unissued 5-million-zloty note dated 1995 (see NBP BNP11).

Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2014.01.16_BNP17a_PNL_LP_00000000_f
Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2014.01.16_BNP17a_PNL_LP_00000000_r
NBP BNP17 (PNL): 20 złotych (US$6.55)
Green, brown, yellow, and blue. Front: Belvedere Palace hologram; coat of arms with crowned eagle; Commander Józef Klemens Piłsudski wearing military uniform. Back: Eagle badge of the Polish Legions; Grand Cross (with Star) of the Order of Virtuti Militari; badge of the First Brigade of the Polish Legions; Belvedere Palace hologram. No security thread. Watermark: None. Printer: (PWPW). 147 x 67 mm. Polymer.
a. 16 STYCZNIA 2014. Signature 17. Prefix LP. Intro: 05.08.2014.

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

Belarus new 100,000-ruble variety confirmed

Belarus_NBRB_100000_rubles_2000.00.00_B33a_P34_diff
100,000 rubles, 2000. Like NBRB B33a (top), but with Orthodox crosses atop towers on back replaced (B33b, bottom).

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.

Turkey chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 38-page catalog covers notes issued by the Ministry of Finance in 1926, and the Türkiye Cümhuriyet Merkez Bankası (Central Bank of Turkey) from 1930 to present. Revised 10 July 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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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Ukraine new sig/date (2014) 50-hryvnia note (B850e) confirmed

50 hryven, 2014. Like B850d, but new date and new signatures.

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

Switzerland new sig/date (2012) 20-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_20_francs_2012.00.00_P69_12_E_1965485_Studer-Jordan_sig
20 francs, (20)12. Like P69, but new date and new signatures (Studer and Jordan).

Courtesy of Jürg Rindlisbacher.

Notes in the News promotion: Russia and Ukraine

One of the things I love about banknotes is that they provide insight into history, culture, and geography, all of which are useful in placing current events into context. With that in mind, I'm pleased to announce the first "Notes in the News promotion."

Anyone buying the Russia chapter of The Banknote Book in the next 30 days will be entitled to a free copy of the Ukraine chapter (a $9.99 value).

Selections for promotions should not be considered an endorsement of the politics of either country.

European Monetary Union new signature 50-euro note with prefix E (Slovakia)

50 euros, 2002. Like ECB B4, but new signature (Mario Draghi) and prefix E (Slovakia).

Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.

European Monetary Union new signature 50-euro note with prefix G (Cyprus)

50 euros, 2002. Like ECB B4, but new signature (Mario Draghi) and prefix G (Cyprus).

Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.

European Monetary Union new signature 500-euro note with prefix N (Austria)

500 euros, 2002. Like ECB B7, but new signature (Mario Draghi) and prefix N (Austria).

Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.

Scotland's Royal Bank of Scotland new 5-pound Ryder Cup commemorative Hybrid note confirmed

According to a BBC article dated 15 June 2014, the Royal Bank of Scotland has unveiled the design of a new 5-pound note commemorating the Ryder Cup. The notes will be available to ticket-holders of the golf tournament which takes place at Gleneagles in Perthshire from 23 - 28 September 2014. The note is legal tender, though it is being sold as a numismatic product for US$32.

The note is printed by G&D on hybrid substrate with a see-through window in the shape of the Ryder Cup trophy, and is the first to bear the signature of new RBS chief executive Ross McEwan.

Scotland_RBS_5_pounds_2014.09.22_BTK_PNL_RCE_001766_f
Scotland_RBS_5_pounds_2014.09.22_BTK_PNL_RCE_001766_r
Blue, green, orange, red, and yellow. Front: SPARK Ryder Cup trophy; bank headquarters building and equestrian statue with Earl of Hopetoun in St. Andrew Square, Edinburgh; coat of arms; Lord Ilay (Archibald Campbell), first bank governor wearing powdered wig. Back: Ryder Cup 2014 logo; PGA Centenary Course; golf clubs; Ryder Cup trophy; Gleneagles Hotel. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Lord Ilay and electrotype £5. Printer: Giesecke & Devrient. 135 x 70 mm. Hybrid.
a. 22nd SEPTEMBER 2014. Signature Ross McEwan. Prefix RCE. Intro: July 2014.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas and Max Keller.

Ukraine denies rumors it plans to redesign its banknotes

According to a report on Ukranian News dated 15 July 2014, the National Bank of Ukraine has denied rumors that it is the design of its banknotes:

"The National Bank has not asked any private company to change the national currency design because under Article 33 of the Law on the National Bank, the latter decides upon denominations, protection systems, payment features and design of national currency's banknotes and coins itself."

Poland new commemorative banknote to be issued August 2015

According to a posting on the bank’s web site, to commemorate the 600th anniversary of the birth of Janowi Długoszowi, the National Bank of Poland will issue 30,000 new numismatic products in August 2015.

Courtesy of Jan Boguś.

Switzerland's new franc series to be printed on Durasafe substrate

According to a press release dated 1 May 2014, Fortress Paper announced that its Landqart mill's Durasafe banknote paper (an innovative new composite paper-polymer-paper banknote substrate) has been confirmed as the substrate of the ninth series of the Swiss franc by the Swiss National Bank. Production problems have caused the delay in the introduction of this new series, which is now scheduled for 2015 at the earliest.

Courtesy of Renzo Zbinden.

Romania new date (2014) 1-leu note (B278i) confirmed

Like B278h, but new date (2014).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Romania new date (2014) 5-leu note (B279g) confirmed

Like B279f, but new date (2014).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new date (01.01.2014) 20-pound note confirmed

20 pounds, 1st JANUARY 2014. Like P342b, but new date. Prefix L.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Switzerland new sig/date (2012) 20-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_20_francs_2012.00.00_P69_12_Q_1837814_ Studeer_Zurbrügg_sig
20 francs, (20)12. Like P69, but new date and signatures (Jean Studer and Fritz Zurbrügg).

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Estonia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Estonia 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 Eesti Vabariigi (Republic of Estonia) from 1919 to 1928 and the Eesti Pank (Bank of Estonia) from 1919 to 2008. Revised 25 June 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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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Spain may create its own banknote printing facility to comply with ECB rules

According to an article in El País dated 2 July 2014, the Banco de España may create a new banknote factory to comply with European Central Bank rules that central banks own their own note-printing facilities or put out to bid the production of euro banknotes to other authorized suppliers. Since 1940, the Fabrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre (FNMT) has produced notes for Spain as an independent company. FNMT also has contracts to produce notes for other African and Latin American countries.

Courtesy of Cedrian.

Russia may issue Crimea commemorative note in 2014

According to an article in Pravda dated 2 July 2014, by the end of the year the Central Bank of the Russian Federation may issue a banknote commemorating the Crimea. The bank also indicated it had no immediate plans to issue a 10,000-ruble note.

Courtesy of Cleo Phas.

Russia not planning polymer banknotes

According to an article in Pravda dated 24 June 2014, Goznak does not plan to introduce polymer banknotes in Russia. Goznak General Director Arkady Trachuk said, "From the point of view of duration, price and quality, paper money is usually more effective than plastic money," but admitted that polymer notes have advantages in countries with hot and humid climates.

Croatia new 20-kuna commemorative confirmed

Croatia_HNB_20_kuna_2014.05.30_B8a_PNL_A_0000689_V_f
Croatia_HNB_20_kuna_2014.05.30_B8a_PNL_A_0000687_V_r
According to a post on the bank's web site, on 30 May 2014, the Hrvatska Narodna Banka (Croatian National Bank) issued a new 20-kuna commemorative note. The note is like HNB B3, but with DVADESETA OBLJETNICA HRVATSKOGA NOVCA KUNE I LIPE 2014 (Twentieth anniversary of the Croatian currency Kuna and Lipa 2014) on the left side of the banknote, at the position of the watermark, microprinted 34 times in continuous vertical lines, creating a rectangle with some letters and numbers bolded to form number "20" and the inscription "OBLJETNICA" printed in iridescent colour in three lines over the rectangular base.

The Croatian National Bank also produced up to 40,000 sets of uncirculated 10- and 20-kuna commorative banknotes in special folders and sold them for 52 kuna each as numismatic products.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Mojmir Cerny, and Zlatko Viscevic.

Poland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 31-page catalog covers notes issued by the Narodowy Bank Polski (National Bank of Poland) from 1944 to present. Revised 25 June 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

Subscribe
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If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.

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European Monetary Union new signature 50-euro note confirmed for Slovenia

50 euros, 2002. Like ECB B4, but new signature (Draghi) and country code H (Slovenia).

Courtesy of Sev Onyshkevych.

Lithuania may adopt euro in 2015

On 4 June 2014, the European Commission released its 2014 Convergence Report, which assesses eight Member States’ readiness to join the single currency. The commission proposed that the EU Council of Ministers decide that Lithuania can adopt the euro on 1 January 2015. The council will take the final decision on the matter in the second half of July, after EU Heads of State and Government have discussed the subject at the 26-27 June European Council, and after the European Parliament has given its opinion.

Courtesy of Jim "Rubycored" Chen.

Ukraine new sig/date (2014) 100-hryvnia note (B851c) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_100_hryven_2014.00.00_B51c_P122_CA_3932781_sig
100 гривень (hryven), 2014. Like B851b, but new date and new signature (Stepan Kubiv, who took over as governor from Ihor Sorkin on 24.02.2014).

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

Trans-Dniester new date (2012) 5-ruble note confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_5_rubles_2012.00.00_B10b_P43_BB_0000000_f
5 rubles, 2007 МОДИФИКАЦИЯ (modified) 2012. Like TDRB B10a, but new date and winged security thread. Intro: 30.05.2014.

Courtesy of Тисленко Вадим (Vadim Tislenko) and Vladimir Kozin (
http://www.ebay.ca/usr/transnistriabanknotes).

Trans-Dniester new date (2012) 500-ruble note confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_500_rubles_2012.00.00_B8c_P41_TT_1111111_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_500_rubles_2012.00.00_B8c_P41_TT_1111111_r
500 rubles, 2004 МОДИФИКАЦИЯ (modified) 2012. Like TDRB B8, but with 4.5-mm wide security thread.

Courtesy of
Claudio Marana and Vladimir Kozin (http://www.ebay.ca/usr/transnistriabanknotes).

Latvia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 22-page catalog covers notes issued by the Latwijas Walsts (Latvian Government) from 1919 to 1940, the Latvijas Socialistiskas Padomju Republikas (Latvian Socialist Soviet Republic) in 1940, and the Latvijas Bankas (Bank of Latvia) from 1922 to 2009. Revised 29.10.2018.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a $99 annual 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 next 12 months.

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If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.

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Scotland's Clydesdale Bank to issue new 5-pound polymer commemorative in 2015

_75025357_fiverforth
According to a BBC News article dated 22 May 2014, Clydesdale Bank in Scotland intends to issue two million 5-pound polymer notes featuring the Forth Bridge and a portrait of Sir William Arrol, whose company constructed the bridge. The notes will be issued in March 2015 on the 125th anniversary of the bridge.

Courtesy of Jake Numismatics.

Switzerland new sig/date (2012) 1,000-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_1000_francs_2012.00.00_P74_12_L_2667402_sig
1,000 francs, (20)12. Like P74, but new date and signature.

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Bank of Cyprus banknote exhibit open May 2014 to June 2015

The Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation on the occasion of the International Museum Day 2014 cordially Invites you to the opening of the exhibition "Cyprus Banknotes: Environment • History • Folk Art." Their iconography through the collections
of the Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation on 16 May 2014, at 19:30. The exhibit runs from May 2014 to June 2015, Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 19:30.

Bank of Cyprus
86-90 Phaneromenis Str. Old Town Nicosia, Cyprus
For more information, visit www.boccf.org.

Courtesy of Rosita A. Efstathiou.

Ukraine chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 16-page catalog covers notes issued by the National Bank of Ukraine from 1991 to present. Revised 13 April 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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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Belarus rumored to have printed new notes in advance of redenomination

According to a report on Forex.co dated 8 April 2014, Aleksander Lukashenko, president of Belarus, is said to have told the employees of an aircraft repair plant in Baranovichi that the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus has already printed a new family of banknotes resembling euros. The new notes are reportedly in storage, ready to be issued after redenominating the Belarusian ruble, expected sometime in 2014.

Poland new 10-, 20-, 50-, and 100-zloty notes confirmed

Poland_NBP_10_zlotych_2012.01.05_PNL_AC_6572424_f
Poland_NBP_10_zlotych_2012.01.05_PNL_AC_6572424_r

10 złotych, 5 STYCZNIA 2012 (01.05.2012). Like P173, but with Omron rings, PWPW printer imprint, and new registration device. Intro: 07.04.2014.

Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2012.01.05_PNL_AA_1093058_f
Poland_NBP_20_zlotych_2012.01.05_PNL_AA_1093058_r

20 złotych, 5 STYCZNIA 2012 (01.05.2012). Like P174, but with Omron rings, PWPW printer imprint, and new registration device. Intro: 07.04.2014.

Poland_NBP_50_zlotych_2012.01.05_PNL_AD_9208688_f
Poland_NBP_50_zlotych_2012.01.05_PNL_AD_9208688_r

50 złotych, 5 STYCZNIA 2012 (01.05.2012). Like P175, but with Omron rings, SPARK patch, caption for portrait, PWPW printer imprint, and new registration device. Intro: 07.04.2014.

Poland_NBP_100_zlotych_2012.01.05_PNL_AA_7810624_f
Poland_NBP_100_zlotych_2012.01.05_PNL_AA_7810624_r

100 złotych, 5 STYCZNIA 2012 (01.05.2012). Like P176, but with Omron rings, SPARK patch, caption for portrait, PWPW printer imprint, and new registration device. Intro: 07.04.2014.

There are no plans to release a revised 200-zloty note at this time.

Courtesy of Radoslaw Dlouhy and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (www.banknoten.de).

Ukraine new sig/date (2013) 20-hryvnia note (B849d) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_20_hryven_2013.00.00_P120_CE_0969536_sig
20 hryven, 2013. Like B849c, but new date and new signature (Ihor Sorkin). Intro: 2014.

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



Serbia new sig/date (2014) 50-dinar note confirmed

Serbia_NBS_50_dinara_2014.00.00_B16b_P56_AA_0006804_sig
50 dinara, 2014. Like NBS B16, but new date and new signature (Jorgovanka Tabaković). Intro: 28.02.2014.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Denmark new sig/date (2012) 50-krone notes confirmed

Denmark_DN_50_kroner_2012.00.00_P65_A9_039889_K_sig
Denmark_DN_50_kroner_2012.00.00_P65_A9_539886_A_sig

50 kroner, (20)12. Like P65, but new date and new signatures. Prefix A9.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new sig/date (03.01.2012) 10-pound note confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_10_pounds_2012.01.01_P341_J_1799594_sig
10 pounds, 3rd JANUARY 2012. Like P341, but new date and new signature.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Ukraine new sig/date (2013) 2-hryvnia note (B845d) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_2_hryven_2013.00.00_P117_ТЖ_6744010_sig
2 гривні (hryvni), 2013. Like B845c, but new date and signature (Ihor Sorkin).

Courtesy of Константин Бохонок.

England polymer 5- and 10-pound notes in video


The CNN Money clip above discusses the Bank of England's plans to adopt polymer substrates for its banknotes, and there are even several shots of polymer 5- and 10-pound test notes at various points in the video.

Courtesy of Mark St. Pierre.

Switzerland new sig/date (2010) 200-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_200_francs_2010.00.00_P73_10_C_1111226_sig
200 francs, (20)10. Like P73, but new date and signatures (Hansueli Raggenbass and Thomas Jordan).

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Macedonia new sig/date (00.10.2013) 1,000-denar note (B214c) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_1000_denari_2013.10.00_B214c_P22_BИ_7245707_f
Like B214b, but new date (Октомври 2013) and new signature (Dimitar Bogov).

Courtesy of Peter Mosselberger (http://www.banknote.ws).

Isle of Man new "promise to pay" clause 20-pound note (B117e) confirmed

Isle_of_Man_IOMG_20_pounds_2013.00.00_B17e_P45_K_024314_clause
B117e: 20 pounds, no date. Like B117d, but with new "promise to pay" clause wording and line break. Prefix J, K.

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

Sweden new date (2012) 500-krona note confirmed

500 kronor, (201)2. Like P66, but new date. Signatures Gernandt & Ingves.

Courtesy of Dott. Michele Cristiano (www.cristianocoins.it) and Peter Mosselberger (www.banknote.ws).

Bank of England 1- and 100-million pound notes in video


Check out this video from Channel 4 News in which you can view the Bank of England's 1-million and 100-million pound notes.

European Monetary Union new 10-euro note unveiled

10euro_front_HR_europa10euro_back_HR_europa
On 13 January 2014 the European Central Bank unveiled the new 10-euro note to be issued 23 September 2014.

Scotland Royal Bank new sig/date (23.06.2012) 20-pound note reported

20 pounds, 23rd MAY 2012. Like P354, but new date and signature (Stephen Hester).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Norway new sig/date (2013) 200-krone note confirmed

Norway_NB_200_kroner_2013.00.00_P50_A_101551101_sig
200 kroner, 2013. Like P50, but new date and signatures (Øystein Olsen / Trond Eklund).

Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen.

Latvia to adopt euro on 1 Janaury 2014

According to Latvijas Banka, Latvia will join the European Monetary Union on 1 January 2014 when it switches from the lat to the euro.

Courtesy of Brian Lema.

Trans-Dniester new 25- and 100-ruble notes confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_25_rubles_2012.00.00_B12b_P45_AB_1005889_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_25_rubles_2012.00.00_B12b_P45_AB_1005889_r

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_100_rubles_2012.00.00_B14b_P47_BB_1017225_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_100_rubles_2012.00.00_B14b_P47_BB_1017225_r
According to a Russian-langauge post by the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank dated 11 December 2013, new 25- and 100-ruble notes have been issued like TDRB B12a and B14a, respectively, but dated 2007 МОДИФИКАЦИЯ (modified) 2012 and with wider windowed security threads.

Courtesy of Vladimir Kozin and Vadim Tislenko.

England announces new 5- and 10-pound notes to be printed on polymer

According to a press release dated 18 December 2013, the Bank of England intends to print new 5- and 10-pound notes on polymer. The 5-pound note featuring Sir Winston Churchill will be issued in 2016, followed in 2017 by the 10-pound note featuring Jane Austen.

Russia adopts symbol for ruble currency

Russian ruble symbol
According to an article on Lenta.ru dated 11 December 2013, the board of directors of the Bank of Russia has adopted a lowercase barred "p" as the symbol for Russia's currency, the ruble. The bank intends to mint coins with the new symbol in 2014 and it will also appear on future banknotes.

Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Andrey Kuvaldin.

Moldova new 200-leu commemorative note confirmed

This note commemorates the 20th anniversary of the Moldovan leu, which was introduced on 29 November 1993. It is like the preceding issue, but with 20 DE ANI at lower center front, and denomination as registration device. The bank packaged 200,000 notes in sleeves and sold them at 15% over face value.

Moldova_BNM_200_lei_2013.00.00_B17a_PNL_G_001141_f
Moldova_BNM_200_lei_2013.00.00_B17a_PNL_G_001141_r
BNP102 (PNL): 200 lei (US$17)
Gold, pink, and brown. Front: Ştefan cel Mare; coat of arms; Victory token; bank logo; denomination as registration device. Back: Bank logo; Ştefan cel Mare coat of arms; crescent moon between columns of Traian and Infinity; Primăria Municipiului Chişinău (city hall of Chişinău). Solid security thread. Watermark: Ştefan cel Mare. Printer: (French). 133 x 66 mm.
a. 2013. Signature 2. Intro: 29.11.2013.

Courtesy of Vladimir Kozin.

Norway's new notes to feature "The Sea" theme

According to a press release dated 30 November 2013, "The new banknote series will feature the sea as the theme, reflecting its importance for Norway's business sector and economic prosperity.

Norges Bank started work on the new banknote series in autumn 2012. This will be the eighth series. There is a need to enhance banknote security to ensure that current and future Norwegian banknotes are resistant to counterfeiting. The work is well underway and a number of important decisions concerning the new series were made by Norges Bank's Executive Board in the fourth quarter of 2013. The theme, denomination breakdown, material, colours, language and size of the notes have now been decided.

"Finding a theme for the new banknote series has been an extensive and exciting process, with a creative input of ideas from various contributors," says Trond Eklund, Director of Norges Bank's Cashier's Department.

Norges Bank has sought to find a theme that runs through the banknote denominations, binding them together into a banknote series. "The Sea" provides a virtually infinite array of visual possibilities. The theme will be reflected both on the obverse and reverse face of the notes, breaking with the tradition of portraiture.

"We have chosen a theme we consider to be original and particularly relevant for Norway, which is a small country but a major coastal nation. Norway has a total coastline of 83 000 km, the longest in Europe. The use of marine resources, combined with the use of the sea as a transport artery, has been crucial to the development of Norway's economy and society," says Eklund.

The current denomination breakdown of 50 – 100 – 200 – 500 – 1000 and the current main colours will be retained for the new series. All the notes, which will be printed on cotton paper, will be 70 mm in height, but the width will increase with each denomination by 7 mm. This means that the 50 krone note will be 126 mm wide, while the 1000 krone note will be 154 mm wide. The Bank's official name will continue to be written in Norway's two official written languages, Bokmål and Nynorsk, i.e. Norges Bank and Noregs Bank.

In order to attract as many creative and interesting design proposals as possible, Norges Bank is now in the process of launching a design competition. The competition will be run in two stages; first a pre-qualification competition and then the final competition between five to eight participants to select the winning design."

Courtesy of Håkon Meidell-Pritzier Hagelund, Stein Langørgen, Cleo Phas, and Fredrik Steen.

Russia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Russia 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 Bank of Russia from 1992 to present. Revised 12 April 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Switzerland new sig/date (2012) 50-franc notes confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_50_francs_2012.00.00_P71_12_E_6346191_Studer-Zurbrügg_sig
50 francs, (20)12. Like P71, but new date and signatures (Jean Studer and Fritz Zurbrügg).

Switzerland_SNB_50_francs_2012.00.00_P71_12_R_0813710_Studer-Danthine_sig
50 francs, (20)12. Like P71, but new date and signatures (Jean Studer and Jean-Pierre Danthine).

Switzerland_SNB_50_francs_2012.00.00_P71_12_T_1365393_Studer-Jordan_sig
50 francs, (20)12. Like P71, but new date and signatures (Jean Studer and Thomas Jordan).

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

European Central Bank to unveil new 10-euro note 13.01.2014

According to a press release dated 26 November 2013, the European Central Bank will unveil its new Europa series 10-euro note on 13 January 2014 and issue the note later in the year.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

Danzig chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 16-page catalog covers notes issued by the Municipal Savings Bank from 1914 to 1919, the Senate from 1919 to 1923, the Danzig Central Finance Department in 1923, and the Bank of Danzig from 1924 to 1938. Revised 13 June 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

Subscribe
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If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.

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Denmark new sig/date (2012) 200-krone note confirmed

Denmark_DN_200_kroner_2012.00.00_P67_A5_051905E_sig
200 kroner, (20)12. Like P67, but new date and signatures. Prefix A5.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Ukraine new sig/date (2013) 200-hryvnia note (B852c) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_200_hryven_2013.00.00_P123_ПA_0181992_sig
200 гривень (hryven), 2013. Like B852b, but new date and signature.

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

Albania new sig/date (2012) 200-lek note confirmed

Albania_BES_200_L_2012.00.00_B13d_P71_MS_970306_sig
200 leke, 2012. Like BES B13, but new date, new signatures (Ardian Fullani and Dorian Çollaku), and 2.0-mm wide windowed security thread. Intro: 12.09.2013. According to a press release, a new sig/date 2,000-lek note (BES B20) was also issued on this date with 3.0-mm wide security thread. If anyone has this note, please send scans so that it can be confirmed.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Trans-Dniester new date (2012) 10-ruble note confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_212.00.00_B11b_P44_BB_1014881_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_10_rubles_212.00.00_B11b_P44_BB_1014881_r
10 rubles, 2007 МОДИФИКАЦИЯ (modified) 2012. Like TDRB B11a, but new date and winged security thread. Also confirmed as specimen with diagonal red ОБРАЗЕЦ overprint.

Courtesy of Vladimir Kozin.

Iceland new 10,000-króna note (B817a) confirmed

Iceland_SI_10000_krónur_2001.05.22_B817a_PNL_H_03784301_fIceland_SI_10000_krónur_2001.05.22_B817a_PNL_H_03784301_r
B817 (PNL): 10,000 krónur (US$100)
Blue. Front: Icelandic text; poet, Icelandic scholar, essayist, and naturalist, Jónas Hallgrímsson; outlines of mountains Háafjall and Hraundrangi formed from Icelandic words coined by Jónas; floral pattern from cover of periodical “Fjölnir;” Jónas’ handwritten poem “Ferðalok” (Journey’s End); topographical outline of mountain Skjaldbreiður. Back: Icelandic text; Golden plover (Pluvialis apricaria) birds; Jónas’ pencil drawing of mountain Skjaldbreiður; topographical outline of mountain Skjaldbreiður; Jónas’ handwritten poem “Fjallið Skjaldbreiður;” scallop shell. 18-mm wide Optiks security thread. Watermark: Jón Sigurðsson, electrotype 10000, and Cornerstones. Printer: (Thomas De La Rue). 162 x 70 mm.
a. 22. MAÍ 2001. Prefix H. Signature 66. Intro: 24.10.2013.
Replacement notes: Prefix Z.
This note was designed by Kristín Þorkelsdóttir and Stephen A. Fairbairn.ice

Bulgaria 2-lev note likely to be replaced by coin


According to a Bulgarian National Bank press release dated 17 October 2013, "As a consequence of the specifics of the currency circulation and the rise in the price levels it is very likely that over the next years the banknote of BGN 2 [US$1.40; P115] would have to be replaced with a coin." Additionally the release indicates that the bank's note printing division and Francois-Charles Oberthur in France are finalizing a joint venture to fully utilize the former’s excess production capacity.



European Monetary Union new 10-euro note to be introduced in 2014

The European Central Bank intends to introduce a new 10-euro note in 2014. No images of or information about the new note are available at this time.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

Denmark new sig/date (2013) 100-krone note confirmed

Denmark_DN_100_kroner_2013.00.00_P66_A8_339316A_sig
100 kronur, (20)13. Like P66, but new date and new signatures (Lars Rohde - Lars G. Sorensen). Series A8.

Courtesy of Stefan Hari (www.haris.dk).

Iceland new signature 500-króna note (B814c) confirmed

Iceland_SI_500_krónur_2001.05.22_B814c_P58_D_32872741_fIceland_SI_500_krónur_2001.05.22_B814c_P58_D_32872741_r
Like B814b, but new signature (Már Guðmundsson).

Courtesy of Werner Kober.

Scotland Clydesdale Bank new title/date (2013) 10- and 20-pound notes confirmed

Scotland_CB_10_pounds_2013.01.25_P229J_W-KP_000005_sig
10 pounds, 25th January 2013. Like P229J, but new date and new signature title.

20 pounds, 11th July 2013. Like P229K, but new date and new signature title.

Courtesy of Andrew Balsillie.

Albania new sig/date (2011) 1,000-lek note confirmed

Albania_BES_1000_L_2011.00.00_B18c_P73_YJ_2769560_sig
1,000 leke, 2011. Like BES B18b, but new date and signatures.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (http://www.banknoten.de).

Northern Ireland's Bank of Ireland new notes confirmed

Northern_Ireland_BOI_5_pounds_2013.01.01_PNL_AA_000628_f
Northern_Ireland_BOI_5_pounds_2013.01.01_PNL_AA_000628_r

Northern_Ireland_BOI_10_pounds_2013.01.01_PNL_AA_000289_f
Northern_Ireland_BOI_10_pounds_2013.01.01_PNL_AA_000289_r

Northern_Ireland_BOI_20_pounds_2013.01.01_PNL_AA_000308_f
Northern_Ireland_BOI_20_pounds_2013.01.01_PNL_AA_000308_r

Northern_Ireland_BOI_50_pounds_2013.01.01_PNL_AA_000632_f
Northern_Ireland_BOI_50_pounds_2013.01.01_PNL_AA_000632_r
According to an article on Belfast Telegraph dated 21 August 2013, the Bank of Ireland UK issued new 5-, 10-, 20-, and 50-pound banknotes which look like the exisiting notes, but with new security features, including the introduction of a hologram dual image for £10 and £20 banknotes and a dual image and filigree for the £50 note. The £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes have a wider security thread and an electrotype in the watermark in the form of Bank of Ireland chevrons. The new notes are dated 1st January 2013 and bear the signature of Stephen Matchett, Chief Financial Officer.

Courtesy of Fabien Louart and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (http://www.banknoten.de).

Switzerland new sig/date (2010) 10-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_10_francs_2010.00.00_P67_V_0101113_Raggenbass-Hildebrand_sig
10 francs, (20)10. Like P67, but new date and new signatures (Hansueli Raggenbass and Philipp Hildebrand).

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Iceland new 10,000-króna note (B817) to be issued 24.10.2013


IS.new_H03775020_10000K_Sign-66Iceland_1000_2013_fIceland_1000_2013_r
On 25 September 2013 the Central Bank of Iceland (Seðlabanki Íslands) unveiled a new 10,000-króna (US$82) note to be issued 24 October 2013. The notes feature Jónas Hallgrímsson, scientist and poet, and the Eurasian golden plover and were designed by Kristín Þorkelsdóttir, who also designed Iceland's other denominations. The blue note measures 172 x 70 mm, and is protected by the following security features: a watermark of Jon Sigurdsson with electrotype 10000 and Cornerstones, 18-mm wide Optiks security thread, UV printing, intaglio printing, microprinting, and raised horizontal bars to assist the sight-impaired.

Courtesy of Werner Kober.

Poland unveils new notes to be issued in April 2014

10_strona_przednia_72_ppi
10_strona_tylna_72_ppi

20_strona_przednia_72_ppi
20_strona_tylna_72_ppi

50_strona_przednia72_ppi
50_strona_tylna_72_ppi

100_strona_przednia_72_ppi
100_strona_tylna_72_ppi
According to a press release dated 24 September 2013, Narodowy Bank Polski has unveiled the new 10-, 20-, 50-, and 100-złotych notes to be issued in April 2014 (for the time being, there are no plans to change the 200-złotych note). The overall designs remain similar to the existing notes of the same denominations, but the security features have been improved.

Courtesy of Krzysztof Czupryński.

Bank of England asks for public input before switching to polymer notes

According to a press release dated 10 September 2013, the Bank of England has revealed that it has been studying a switch from paper to polymer substrates over the past three years and found that the latter is cleaner, more secure, more durable, and more environmentally friendly. However, before finalizing on the decision to switch to polymer for its banknotes, the bank is undergoinh a two-month-long public consultation program ending on 15 November 2013. The bank’s final decision, in the light of feedback, will be announced in December 2013. If a decision is taken to proceed with printing on polymer, this will initially only be for the new-style £5 and £10 banknote. Polymer banknotes would be introduced one denomination at a time, with the Churchill £5 in 2016 at the earliest. The new polymer notes would also be smaller than existing paper notes.

Ukraine new sig/date (2013) 50-hryvnia note (B850d) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_50_hryven_2013.00.00_P121_ПБ_7287791_sig
50 гривень (hryven), 2013. Like B850c, but new date and signature (Ihor Sorkin).

Courtesy of Aleksey Gladkov (www.bonistika.net).

Ukraine celebrates 17th anniversary of its banknote paper factory

On its 17th anniversary, the National Bank of Ukraine has lifted the veil over the place where the hryvnia was born and showed journalists the work of the banknote paper factory in Malin city of Zhytomyr region.

Ukraine new sig/date (2013) 10-hryvnia note (B848c) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_10_hryven_2013.00.00_P119A_ПB_0891769_sig
10 гривень (hryven), 2013. Like B848b, but new date and signature (Ihor Sorkin).

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

Azores chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 9-page catalog covers notes issued by the Banco de Portugal (Bank of Portugal) from 1876 to 1932. Revised 8 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.

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

Moldova new sig/date (2013) 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-leu notes confirmed

Moldova_BNM_50_lei_2013.00.00_B12f_P14_E.007_674501_sig
5 lei, 2013. Like BNM B9, but new date and signature (Dorin Dragutanu).

10 lei, 2013. Like BNM B10, but new date and signature (Dorin Dragutanu).

20 lei, 2013. Like BNM B11, but new date and signature (Dorin Dragutanu).

50 lei, 2013. Like BNM B12, but new date and signature (Dorin Dragutanu).

100 lei, 2013. Like BNM B13, but new date and signature (Dorin Dragutanu).

200 lei, 2013. Like BNM B14, but new date and signature (Dorin Dragutanu).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Tislenko Vadim.

Serbia new sig/date (2013) 200-dinar note confirmed

Serbia_NBS_200_dinara_2013.00.00_B18b_P57_AA_0006927_sig
According to a press release dated 5 July 2013, the National Bank of Serbia issued a 200-dinar note like NBS B18, but with new date (2013) and signature (Jorgovanka Tabaković).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Alberto Fochi.

Northern Ireland's Ulster Bank new sig/date (03.01.2012) 20-pound note confirmed

Northern_Ireland_UBL_20_P_2012.01.03_P342_K_7474362_sig
20 pounds, 3rd JANUARY 2012. Like P342, but new date, signature, and title.

Courtesy of yuri111.

Poland to issue polymer numismatic product in 2014

20130723_plan_2014_ah
According to a Polish-language press release dated 29 July 2013, Narodowy Bank Polski plans to issue its first polymer banknote in 2014 on the 100th anniversary of the Polish Legions. 30,000 notes will be sold as numismatic products featuring the portrait of Jozef Pilsudski designed by Andrzej Heidrich.

Courtesy of Jacek Tylicki.

England confirms new 10-pound note to feature Jane Austen in 2016-2017

According to a press release dated 24 July 2013, the Bank of England has "confirmed that Jane Austen will appear on a forthcoming Bank of England banknote: the next new character following Sir Winston Churchill…The Austen note will be issued as a £10 note, within a year of the Churchill £5 note, which is targeted for issue during 2016."

Features of the design on the reverse of the Jane Austen note will include:

  • The quote – “I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading!” from Pride and Prejudice (Miss Bingley, Chapter XI).
  • Portrait of Jane Austen. Commissioned by James Edward Austen Leigh (Jane Austen’s nephew) in 1870, adapted from an original sketch of Jane Austen drawn by her sister, Cassandra Austen.
  • An illustration of Miss Elizabeth Bennet undertaking “The examination of all the letters which Jane had written to her”– from a drawing by Isabel Bishop (1902-1988).
  • The image of Godmersham Park. Godmersham was home of Edward Austen Knight, Jane Austen's brother. Jane Austen visited the house often and it is believed that it was the inspiration for a number of her novels.
  • Jane Austen’s writing table – the central design in the background is inspired by the 12 sided writing table, and writing quills, used by Jane Austen at Chawton Cottage.

Courtesy of Anthony Rodov.

Ukraine banknote paper factory introduces paper with anti-fungal agent

According to an article in KyivPost dated 23 July 2013, "The banknote paper factory of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) has introduced a technology for producing paper impregnated with an anti-fungal agent." The UkrainianJoural.com adds that the factory is "in talks with two well-known foreign companies in Europe regarding signing framework agreements to place orders for paper production and delivery, starting from September 2013."



Lithuania chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Lithuania 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 Lietuvos Bankas (Bank of Lithuania) from 1922 to present. Revised 15 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.

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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Book review: Coins and Banknotes of Yugoslavia, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia

Coins and Banknotes cover
Coins and Banknotes of Yugoslavia, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia
Zlatko Viščević, 1173 pages, soft cover, 192 x 120 mm, black and white illustrations, Croatian and English, ISBN 978-953-56890-0-3, US$52 / €40 (free shipping), kin2.orders@gmail.com

Download the free sample chapter: Coins and Banknotes of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.

Reviewed by Owen W. Linzmayer 7962

As author Zlatko Viščević mentions in the introduction to his impressive new catalog, collecting banknotes from the area of the former Yugoslavia can be quite challenging due to the large number of notes issued over the years. Compounding the problem is the Serbo-Croatian text on these notes and the complicated history of the region, both of which may be unfamiliar to many collectors. This new catalog doesn’t attempt to explain the tumultuous politics of the past three centuries, but is an invaluable addition to the reference library of anyone who specializes in collecting notes from this part of the world.

The first edition of this catalog was published in 2007. The second edition covers regular and commemorative notes issued in the intervening years, goes into greater depth in the descriptions, and now also includes special, fantasy, and private issues. In short, if you already own the first edition and like it, you’ll definitely want to buy the much-improved and expanded second edition.

Coins and Banknotes’ title spells out exactly what’s inside. The first half of the book is devoted to coins, the second half to notes, with chapters for the seven countries in each section. Within the chapters, the coins and notes are listed chronologically by denomination, which makes it easy to locate a particular piece and track changes over time, but at the expense of presenting complete families with common or complementary designs.

Each note type listing contains the denomination, catalog number, cross-references to Pick numbers and other specialized catalogs, reduced-size illustrations of the front and back, description of design elements and security features, and finally a list of varieties, with checkboxes for tracking your collection. Each variety is assigned a six-level rarity rating, and has values in euros for up to four levels of condition. Some notes also have auction results at the bottom of the page, though the values and results don’t always agree. Occasionally there are inset illustrations of details which determine varieties. These are useful in most cases, but sometimes the differences aren’t obvious due to the small size or lack of color in their reproduction.

Specialized collectors will appreciate the comprehensive lists of prefixes, as well as the inclusion of specimen and replacement notes in the variety tables, not to mention the assortment of “irregular issues” (color trials, partial proofs, etc.) and private/fantasy notes covered separately. While there isn’t much explanatory text regarding these issues, anyone interested in pursuing further research can consult the bibliography of source books and web sites at the end of each chapter.

The longer passages of prose in the catalog are presented in both Croatian and English, but the descriptions of the notes and their varieties are in Croatian only, which is a little frustrating if you care about such details and don’t want to rely upon Google Translate. Fortunately the English text everywhere else in the book is good enough that it’s easy to overlook the minor typos and understand the gist of the intended meaning.

One complaint I have about the catalog is its size. This is a bulky, compact tome measuring a whopping 55 millimeters thick, and heavy enough to break a toe if dropped on a foot. I would have preferred the coin and banknote sections split into two separate volumes, both printed in a larger format. As it is, the small black and white illustrations don’t do justice to the beauty of the notes, and the tiny text is hard to read if your eyesight isn’t perfect.

With this second edition, Zlatko Viščević has created a solid reference for collectors of notes of Yugoslavia and its constituent republics from 1849 to 2011. Coins and Banknotes delivers a dense helping of numismatic information at price that can’t be beat.

Bank of England responds to public demand for women on new notes

The Bank of England has posted the response from Mark Carney, governor of the Bank of England, to a letter received on 1 July 2013 from Mary Macleod MP, who expressed diappointment that Elizabeth Fry is to be replaced on the 5-pound note by Winston Churchill.

Courtesy of James Cadman.

Guernsey new 1-pound TDLR commemorative note confirmed

Guernsey_SOG_1_pound_2013.07.04_PNL_TD-LR_001043_f
Guernsey_SOG_1_pound_2013.07.04_PNL_TD-LR_001043_r
Guernsey_SOG_1_pound_2013.07.04_PNL_TD-LR_001043_sig
According to an article on ChannelOnline, on 4 July 2013 the States of Guernsey began selling 300,000 1-pound notes to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Thomas de la Rue's first commercial venture. This commemorative note is like the preceding normal issue for this denomination, but enhanced by a design featuring Thomas de la Rue on the back and a TD/LR prefix. It is also the first series of 1-pound notes to feature the signature of States Treasurer Bethan Haines. The notes are sold at double face value, plus £8 S&H.

Courtesy of Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk), Philip Martin, and Jan Stuller.

Hungary new sig/date (2013) 500-forint note (B581e) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_500_forint_2013.00.00_B581e_P196_EA_4411814_fHungary_MNB_500_forint_2013.00.00_B581e_P196_EA_4411814_r
Like B581d, but new date (2013) and new signatures (György Matolcsy and Ádám Balog).

Courtesy of G. Scheidl.

Croatia new sig/date (09.07.2012) 100- and 200-kuna notes confirmed

Croatia_HNB_100_kuna_2012.07.09_B5b_P41_B_9523849_B_sig
100 kuna, 9. SRPANJ 2012 (09.07.2012). Like HNB B5, but new date and new signature (Boris Vujcic). Intro: 01.07.2013.

200 kuna, 9. SRPANJ 2012 (09.07.2012). Like HNB B6, but new date and new signature (Boris Vujcic). Intro: 01.07.2013.

Courtesy of Zlatko Viscevic.

Hungary new date (2013) 2,000-forint note (B583d) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_2000_forint_2013.00.00_B583d_P198_CA_5714573_fHungary_MNB_2000_forint_2013.00.00_B583d_P198_CA_5714573_r
Like B583c, but new date (2013).

Courtesy of Kevin Klauss.

Scotland's Bank of Scotland new sig/date (01.19.2009) 20-pound note confirmed

Scotland_BOS_20_pounds_2009.01.19_P126_BX_342171_sig
20 pounds, 19th JANUARY 2009. Like P126, but new date and signatures (Daniels/Kane).

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

Serbia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Serbia 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 Народна банка Србије/Narodna Banka Srbija (National Bank of Serbia) from 2003 to present. Revised 24 May 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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

Norway new sig/date (2012) 500-kroner note confirmed

Norway_NB_500_kroner_2012.00.00_P51_H_401072689_sig
500 kroner, 2012. Like P51, but new date and new signatures (Øystein Olsen & Trond Eklund).

Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen.

Northern Ireland's Danske Bank new 10- and 20-pound notes confirmed

Northern_Ireland_DB_10_pounds_2013.01.25_B1a_PNL_AA_3103501_f
Northern_Ireland_DB_20_pounds_2012.10.16_B1a_PNL_AA_1130151_rNorthern_Ireland_DB_20_pounds_2012.10.16_B1a_PNL_AA_1130151_f
Northern_Ireland_DB_10_pounds_2013.01.25_B1a_PNL_AA_3103501_r
According to a BBC News article dated 24 June 2013, Danske Bank, formerly Northern Bank, issued 10- and 20-pound notes that look like the existing Northern Bank issues (PNL), but with the bank's new logo and name which changed in November 2012. Existing notes will remain in circulation. The bank no longer issues its own 50- and 100-pound notes and will issue Bank of England notes instead for these denominations.

The 10-pound note is dated 25th January 2013 and the 20-pound note is dated 16th October 2012. Both bear the signature of Gerry Mallon, Chief Executive.

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

Trans-Dniester new 50- and 200-ruble notes confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_50_rubles_2012.00.00_B13bs_P46s_BB_0000000_fTrans-Dniestria_TDRB_200_rubles_2012.00.00_B7cs_P40s_BB_0000000_f
According to a Russian-language press release, Trans-Dniester issued new 50- and 200-ruble banknotes with upgraded security features on 15 January 2013. The designs remain unchanged, but the windowed security thread is wider and the date is changed to МОДИФИКАЦИЯ (modified) 2012.

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko and Vladimir Kozin.

Serbia new sig/date (2013) 10-, 20-, and 100-dinar notes confirmed

Serbia_NBS_100_D_2013.00.00_B17b_P49_AA_0006827_sig
On 24 May 2013, the National Bank of Serbia issued 10-, 20-, and 100-dinar notes like the preceding issues, but with new date (2013) and signature (Jorgovanka Tabaković) on back.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Alberto Fochi.

Serbia new sig/date (2013) 10-, 20-, and 100-dinar notes reported

According to a press release, on 24 May 2013 the National Bank of Serbia issued 10-, 20-, and 100-dinar notes dated 2013 with the governor's signature as Jorgovanka Tabaković.

Courtesy of Dragan Peric.

Ukraine new sig/date (2013) 5-hryven note (B846d) confirmed

Ukraine_NBU_5_hryven_2013.00.00_P118_ПA_6475674_sig
5 гривень (hryven), 2013. Like B846c, but new date and signature (Ihor Sorkin).

Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov (www.worldbanknotes.t15.org).

Switzerland new sig/date (2012) 10-franc note confirmed

Switzerland_SNB_10_francs_2010.00.00_P67_E_1088093_Raggenbass-Danthine_sig
10 francs, (20)10. Like P67c, but new date and signatures (Raggenbass/Danthine).

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Northern Ireland's Northern Bank new date (30.11.2011) 10-pound note confirmed

Northern_Ireland_NB_10_pounds_2011.11.30_PNL_GH_0112441_f
10 pounds, 30th November 2011. Like unlisted note dated 9th November 2008, but new date.

Courtesy of Yuri Minkin (http://stores.ebay.com/yuri111).

Scotland's Royal Bank new date (20.12.2007) 10-pound note confirmed

10 pounds, 20th DECEMBER 2007. Like P353, but new date.

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

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

Northern Ireland's First Trust Bank new sig/date (01.01.2012) 10-pound note confirmed

Northern_Ireland_FTB_10_pounds_2012.01.01_P136_VA_298431_sig
10 pounds, 1st JANUARY 2012. Like P136, but new date and new signature (John Kilty).

Courtesy of Pam West.

European Monetary Union new 5-euro note confirmed

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_5_euros_2013.00.00_B8u3_PNL_UB_8061537134_f
European_Monetary_Union_ECB_5_euros_2013.00.00_B8u3_PNL_UB_8061537134_r
5 euros, 2013. Intro: 02.05.2013. These notes have two-character prefixes and it's not yet clear if they use the same country codes as the preceding series. Prefixes confirmed to date include UB and VA.

Courtesy of Richard Castello (www.castedos.com or http://stores.ebay.com/CastedosInvestments) and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (www.banknoten.de).

Central Bank of Malta currency exhibit runs 2-15 May 2013

According to a press release dated 26 April 2013, "The Central Bank of Malta is organising a currency exhibition between Thursday 2 May 2013 and Wednesday 15 May 2013. The exhibition will be held in the Polverista building situated at the Bank’s premises on St James Counterguard, Valletta.

The exhibition will trace the history of the official Maltese paper currency since 1914 and will allow those visiting the exhibition to see the new €5 “Europa Series” banknote that will be issued by the European Central Bank from 2 May 2013. Visitors will also have access to an audio-visual presentation on banknote production and an interactive game which highlights the security features of the euro banknote. Maltese decimal coinage, as well as a number of euro coin sets, will also be on display.

The exhibition will be open daily during weekdays from 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.

Further information may be obtained by calling on 2550 6014."

Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.

England to feature Winston Churchill on new 5-pound note in 2016

churchill
According to a press release, the Bank of England will feature Winston Churchill on a new 5-pound note to be issued in 2016.

Commenting on the choice, the Governor said: “Our banknotes acknowledge the life and work of great Britons.  Sir Winston Churchill was a truly great British leader, orator and writer.  Above that, he remains a hero of the entire free world.  His energy, courage, eloquence, wit and public service are an inspiration to us all.  I am proud to announce that he will appear on our next banknote."
The plan is for the Churchill note to be issued as a £5 note, and that it shall be issued during 2016; but those choices may be reviewed as plans for issuing the new note are finalised. Features of the design on the reverse of the note will include:

  • A portrait of Winston Churchill from a photograph taken in Ottawa by Yousuf Karsh on 30 December 1941 - © Yousuf Karsh/Camera Press.
  • A view of Westminster and the Elizabeth Tower from the South Bank looking across Westminster Bridge - © Abi Daker.
  • The image of the Elizabeth Tower with the hands of the Great Clock at 3 o’clock – the approximate time on 13 May 1940 when Sir Winston Churchill declared in a speech to the House of Commons: “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.” This declaration is quoted beneath the portrait.
  • A background image of the Nobel Prize medal which he was awarded in 1953 for literature, together with the wording of the prize citation. The trademark Nobel Prize® is reproduced with permission from the Nobel Foundation.

Further details on the full design of the new note will be revealed when the new note is launched, together with a full promotion and awareness campaign.

Courtesy of Paul Walters.

Turkey new 5-lira note issued 08.04.2013 confirmed

Turkey_TCMB_5_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B109a_PNL_B_036592592_f
Turkey_TCMB_5_turk_lirasi_2009.00.00_B109a_PNL_B_036592592_sig
On 8 April 2013, Türkiye Cümhuriyet Merkez Bankası (Central Bank of Turkey) issued a new 5-lira note that is purple, because the exisiting tan note (P222) was too close in color to the brown 50-lira note (P225).

In addition to the new color of the 5-lira note, the bank also changed the Deputry Governor signatures on the following notes (all the new notes have Governor Erdem Başçı’s signature, seen above at left):
· TL 200 banknotes: Mehmet Yörükoğlu
· TL 50 banknotes: Turalay Kenç,
· TL 5 banknotes: Mehmet Yörükoğlu

Courtesy of Adil Önder, Okyay Demirors, and Paul Nahmias.

Poland to upgrade security of notes in April 2014

According to a press release dated 18 April 2013, the National Bank of Poland plans to issue banknotes with new security features in April 2014. The designs of the "Polish Monarchs" notes first issued in 1995 will remain unchanged, except to accomodate the modern security features. Detailed information is scheduled to be released in September 2013.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk and Krzysztof Czupryńsk.

Hungary new date (2013) 2,000-forint note (B583d) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_2000_forint_2013.00.00_B583d_P198_CA_5714573_fHungary_MNB_2000_forint_2013.00.00_B583d_P198_CA_5714573_r
Like B583c, but new date (2013).

Courtesy of G. Scheidl.

Sweden changes portrait for new 1,000-krona note due October 2015

press_Kulturresan_1000_Low_130320
According to a Sveriges Riksbank press release dated 25 March 2013, "The Riksbank has reached agreement with the copyright holders for the images and symbols that will be used on the new banknotes. In connection with this, the portrait of Dag Hammarskjöld on the 1000-krona banknote has been re- placed. The issue of the new banknotes will begin in early October 2015.

"Today, the Riksbank is also publishing the texts that will form the basis for the mini- and micro-texts on the new banknotes. The mini- and micro-texts are in- terwoven with the banknotes' motifs and act as extra security features.

"The texts are linked to the individuals portrayed on the respective banknotes. The 20-krona banknote, for example, will contain a line from “Pippi Longstocking”, one of Astrid Lindgren's most famous books, while the 500-krona bank- note will have a text listing Birgit Nilsson's operatic roles. All the mini- and mi- cro-texts are available on the Riksbank's website."

Courtesy of David Surette.

Croatia new sig/date (09.07.2012) 10- and 20-kuna notes confirmed

Croatia_HNB_10_K_2012.07.09_B2b_P38_A_6755121_T_sig
On 18 March 2013, the Croatian National Bank issued new 10- and 20-kuna banknotes like HNB B2 (P38) and B3 (P39) respectively, but with new dates (9 SRPANJ 2012) and new signature (Boris Vujcic). Details in Croatian.

Courtesy of Mirko Pistan and Ivan Martinović.

Sweden new date (2011) 50-kronor note confirmed

50 kronor, (201)1. Like P64b, but new date.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

European Monetary Union new sig 20-euro note confirmed

20 euros, 2002. Like ECB B3 (P3 & P10), but new signature (Mario Draghi), country code X, and printer code E008F5.

Courtesy of Edwin Biersteker.

Isle of Man 50-new pence paper variety confirmed

Isle_of_Man_IOMG_50_new_pence_1979.00.00_B5d_P33a_C_510664_fIsle_of_Man_IOMG_50_new_pence_1979.00.00_B5d_P33a_C_547990_f
50 new pence, no date. Like IOMB B5d (P33) shown at top, but on paper which is slightly yellow (instead of pure white) and with diagonal lines throughout.

Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer.

Romania new date (2013) 1-leu note (B278h) confirmed

Like B278g, but new date (2013).

Courtesy of Daniel Mendea.

Iceland new 10,000-króna note (B817a) reported for 2013 introduction

According to an article on News of Iceland dated 18 February 2013, the Central Bank of Iceland (Seðlabanki Íslands) will introduce a new 10,000-króna (US$77) this year, "probably this spring." The notes feature Jónas Hallgrímsson, scientist and poet, and the Eurasian golden plover and were designed by Kristín Þorkelsdóttir, who also designed Iceland's other denominations.

European Monetary Union chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The European Monetary Union 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 European Central Bank from 2002 to present. Revised 5 July 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Hungary new date (2012) 1,000-forint note (B582d) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_1000_forint_2012.00.00_B582d_P197_DA_8178812_fHungary_MNB_1000_forint_2012.00.00_B582d_P197_DA_8178812_r
Like B582c, but new date (2012).

Courtesy of Peter Mosselberger (www.banknote.ws).

Trans-Dniester new date (2012) 1-ruble note confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_rubles_2012.00.00_B15a_PNL_BM_4088101_f
Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_1_rubles_2012.00.00_B15a_PNL_BM_4088101_r
1 ruble, 2007 МОДИФИКАЦИЯ (modified) 2012. Like TDRB B9a, but new date and winged security thread. Intro: 15.01.2013.

Courtesy of Dmitry Zagorenko.

Northern Ireland's Northern Bank new date (12.05.2011) 20-pound note confirmed

20 pounds, 12th May 2011. Like unlisted note dated 15th April 2009, but new date.

Courtesy of Yuri Minkin.

England 1- and 100-million pound notes confirmed

_65436606_1993-237a4
BBC News has an interesting article which discusses the Bank of England's "giant" and "titan" notes denominated in 1- and 100-million pounds.

Courtesy of Christof Zellwegger.

European Monetary Union new signature variety 100-euro note confirmed

European_Monetary_Union_ECB_100_euros_2002.00.00_B5_P5_X_10294469615_sig
100 euros, no date. Like P5, but new signature (Mario Draghi).

Courtesy of Márk Döme.

Serbia new sig/date (2012) 500- and 2,000-dinar notes confirmed

Serbia_NBS_500_D_2012.00.00_B19b_PNL_AA_0007093_sig
According to an official press release, on 7 December 2012, the National Bank of Serbia released revised 500- (US$5.70) and 2,000-dinar (US$23) banknotes.

"The obverse of the two banknotes has not been revised, while the reverse shows a new issue year (2012) and the signature of the current governor (Jorgovanka Tabaković). The 500-dinar banknote will circulate in parallel with the earlier series of this banknote issued in 2004, 2007 and 2011, while the 2000-dinar banknote will be in parallel circulation with its 2011 issue.

"The release of revised 500- and 2000-dinar banknotes was scheduled by the annual programme of manufacturing banknotes and coins. In accordance with this programme, planned quantities of 10-, 20, 50- and 100-dinar banknotes were already printed this year. In addition, the programme for 2012 envisages printing of 500- and 2000-dinar banknotes in order to replace the worn-out, damaged and mutilated banknotes, and to ensure an optimal denomination structure of circulating banknotes.

"Further, a need was recognised to change the existing denomination structure, particularly in terms of replacing the 1000-dinar banknote which is dominant in the structure of circulating cash – around 70% in the nominal amount and around 33% in the quantity of circulating banknotes. This change would contribute to a reduction in the total number of circulating banknotes, while maintaining the same nominal quantity. Besides, this would help reduce the costs of manufacturing banknotes and cash manipulation (counting, processing, transportation, vault storage etc)."

Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Dragan Peric, and Kevin Klauss.

European Central Bank unveils new 5-euro note due 02.05.2013

5euro_front_HR_europa5euro_back_HR_europa

10 January 2013 - Eurosystem unveils the Europa series €5 banknote

Mario Draghi, President of the European Central Bank (ECB), today unveiled the Europa series €5 banknote. The unveiling was the highlight of the opening of the “New Face of the Euro” exhibition, which is being held at the Archaeological Museum in Frankfurt am Main from 11 January to 10 March 2013.

The new €5 banknote has benefited from advances in banknote technology since the first series was introduced over ten years ago. It includes some new and enhanced security features. The watermark and hologram display a portrait of Europa, a figure from Greek mythology – and hence the name of this series of banknotes. An eye-catching “emerald number” changes colour from emerald green to deep blue and displays an effect of the light that moves up and down. Short raised lines on the left and right edges of the banknote make it easier to identify the banknote, especially for visually impaired people.

These security features are planned to be included in all the new banknotes. They are easy to check using the “feel, look and tilt” method.

The new series has the same “ages and styles” design and dominant colours as the first series. The €5 will be the first banknote to be issued, starting on 2 May 2013. The other denominations, i.e. €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500, will be introduced over the next few years, in ascending order.

The first series will initially circulate alongside the new banknotes, but will gradually be withdrawn and eventually cease to be legal tender. The date when this occurs will be announced well in advance. However, the banknotes of the first series will retain their value indefinitely and can be exchanged at euro area national central banks at any time.

Scotland Royal Bank new date (20.12.2007) 100-pound note confirmed

Scotland_RBS_100_P_2007.12.20_P350_A-2_915014_sig
100 pounds (US$162), 20TH DECEMBER 2007. Like P350, but new date.

Courtesy of Yuri Minkin.

1st Paper-Money and Coins Fair to take place in Lisbon 04.05.2013

António Canas (lisbontrade.fair@gmail.com) is organizing the first Paper-Money and Coins Fair to take place in Lisbon, Portugal on 4 May 2013. Click here to download a PDF with details about the event.

Turkey new signature variety 10-, 20-, and 100-lira notes confirmed

According to a press release dated 21 December 2012, the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey issued new signature varieties of the 10-, 20-, and 100-lira (US$5.50, $11, $56) notes on 24 December.

Turkey_TCMB_10_TL_2009.00.00_B104b_P223_f
TL 10 (P223): Governor Erdem Başçı and Deputy Governor Necati Şahin.

Turkey_TCMB_20_TL_2009.00.00_B105b_P224_f
TL 20 (P224): Governor Erdem Başçı and Deputy Governor Murat Çetinkaya.

Turkey_TCMB_100_TL_2009.00.00_B107b_P226_f
TL 100 (P226): Governor Erdem Başçı and Deputy Governor Necati Şahin.

Courtesy of Okyay Demirors and Hartmut Fraunhoffer.

Switzerland delays new notes until 2015

According to a press release dated 13 December 2012, the introduction of the new Swiss 50-franc note has been delayed until 2015 at the earliest due to technical difficulties encountered in the note's production on Durasafe substrate.

Courtesy of Christoph Zellweger.

Bank of England puts note printing out to tender

According to a PrintWeek article dated 10 December 2012, De La Rue's contract to print the UK's banknotes could come to an end as the Bank of England (BoE) has issued a tender notice asking up to five operators to bid for the £1bn contract.

It is only the second time that the contract has been outsourced since De La Rue took over banknote printing for BoE in 2003.

The contract, which could potentially run for up to 14 years, will see alternative suppliers bidding to print up to 12bn banknotes at BoE’s Debden, Essex facility.

BoE expects that the 200 staff at the Debden plant will be transferred to the new supplier should the contract be awarded away from De La Rue.

The new supplier would be responsible for the maintenance of Debden’s printing machinery, which is expected to be refurbished or replaced with the payment of capital costs coming from BoE.

The tender also states that the new supplier would need to accomodate changes in the features or substrates included in banknote production in line with security reviews by the governing body.

Bidding operators must have at least three years of experience in commercial banknote printing and have printed at least 500m banknotes over a 12-month period at one site in the past three years as payment will depend on the volumes of accepted banknotes produced.

The deadline for bids is 31 January 2013, and BoE expects that banknote production will commence from April 2015 following a six to twelve month transition period between suppliers. The successful participant will have the option to extend the contract by a further 36 months.

One provision in the tender that has gotten the attention of banknote collectors is the requirement that the printers be able to handle printing on polymer, not just the paper substrate traditionally used on Bank of England notes. To be clear, however, the bank hasn't committed to printing new notes on polymer; it's simply ensuring that polymer is an option regardless of who it chooses as its new printer.

Norway developing new banknote series

According to a Norges Bank press release dated 4 December 2012, Norges Bank has started on a project to develop a new banknote series. This will be the eighth series of krone-denominated banknotes. There is a need to enhance the security of Norwegian banknotes so that they will continue to be hard to counterfeit.

Why is Norges Bank going to replace Norwegian banknotes?
As the central bank, Norges Bank bears the responsibility that Norwegian banknotes function effectively as means of payment and have adequate functionality and that the general public has confidence that the notes they use are genuine. This means, for example, that genuine banknotes should be easy to identify. Norwegian banknotes must therefore have security features that are sufficient to deter counterfeiting.

The likelihood of Norwegian banknotes being counterfeited may be reduced by ensuring that the notes' security features are not inferior to those on comparable countries' banknotes. A number of countries, including Sweden, Denmark, Canada, Switzerland and the Euro countries, have introduced or are about to introduce new banknote series with enhanced security. This requires an enhancement of the security features on Norwegian banknotes too. And because developing a new banknote series takes time, work to develop a new series needs to begin now.

Moreover, it has been nearly 20 years since the appearance of first banknote in the current series (the 200-krone note). Norges Bank has already upgraded this series once, and has concluded that further upgrades of the existing banknote series would be impractical.

When will the new banknotes be introduced?
Developing a new banknote series is a complicated and demanding project that poses considerable challenges and various types of risk at all stages. Experience from other countries that have introduced or are about to introduce new banknotes suggests that it takes several years from the time work commences until the notes are placed into circulation.

Why does it take so long to create a new banknote series?
First, Norges Bank will select a theme for the new banknote series. For this effort, the Bank will solicit advice from outside. Once the theme has been approved, the Bank will choose the main elements of the banknotes' design. It may be appropriate to invite one or more artists to propose motifs.

Then the work begins to select security elements and the type of paper. The design components and look of a banknote have a close bearing on the work on security elements. It is a demanding task to place the security elements in a way that makes the banknote aesthetically pleasing, yet meets all technical requirements. At this stage, external stakeholders, such as banks, retail trade and organisations for the blind and visually impaired will be involved to ensure that their needs are addressed.

The banknotes are also supposed to function in vending machines and ATMs, and will be available for testing in sufficient time before being placed into circulation. Introducing new banknotes and withdrawing old ones also requires an extensive information campaign targeting banks, retail outlets and the general public. All these factors help to make the work on a new banknote series a protracted process.

Who decides that we will be getting new banknotes and what they will look like?
It is Norges Bank that has decided that work will begin on a new banknote series (cf. Section 13 of the Norges Bank Act). It is also the central bank that will approve the theme, motifs, format, colours and range of denominations. The Ministry of Finance will be kept informed, as it states in the Norges Bank Act: "Before the Bank makes any decision of special importance, the matter shall be submitted to the ministry." Since approval of a new banknote series is a decision of special importance, the matter will be submitted to the Ministry of Finance.

Do we even need banknotes now that most people pay with a card?
Banknotes are and will continue to be an important part of the infrastructure of the payment system, and the quantity of cash in circulation has remained at around the same level in recent years. In other words, there is still a need for banknotes.

It is also the Bank's experience that whenever electronic payment systems do not function, or there are fears that these systems will cease to function, the general public increases its demand for cash. Thus, cash serves as a backup.

Will there be a change in the denominations of banknotes?
Norges Bank is responsible for ensuring an appropriate range of denominations. An assessment of which denominations to include in the new series is a part of the project.

Will Norges Bank also be introducing new coins?
Norges Bank has no plans to make changes to the current coin series. But in connection with development of a new banknote series and the range of denominations, the Bank will considerer whether the 50-krone note should be replaced with a coin.

What will happen to current banknotes?
From the date new notes are introduced, Norges Bank will approve the withdrawal of existing notes from circulation. This is authorised by Section 15 of the Norges Bank. A decision to withdraw banknotes will be announced in the Norwegian Legal Gazette (Norsk Lovtidend) and Norway's largest newspapers.

Following the announcement, the notes will continue to be legal tender and may be used in the ordinary manner for one year. After that, Norges Bank is obliged to redeem them for an additional ten years.

Courtesy of Phil Martin.

Moldova new 1-leu note dated 2010 without security thread confirmed

1 leu, 2010. Like B108, but without security thread.

Courtesy of G. Scheidl.

Bank of England names Canadian, Mark Carney as its new governor in 2013

carney
According to a press release dated 26 November 2012, the Bank of England has announced that Mark Carney has been appointed governor of the bank from 1 July 2013. He will succeed Sir Mervyn King. Carney is currently Governor of the Bank of Canada, having taken up his office on 1 February 2008. The move will likely mean new signature varieties for Canada's banknotes, but not for those in Great Britain, where the notes are signed by the chief cashier.

Courtesy of Jim Chen, Alex Zlotin, and Aidan Work.

Norway 1977-1998 notes demonetized

Norges Bank has announced that the notes dated 1977-1998 (Pick 41-P45) were demonetized as 1 November 2012.

Courtesy of Sune Persson.

European Monetary Union to issue new "Europa" series 5-euro note in May 2013


According to a press release dated 8 November 2012, "The European Central Bank (ECB) and the national central banks (NCBs) of the Eurosystem are to introduce a second series of euro banknotes. Called the “Europa” series, it will include a portrait of Europa – a figure from Greek mythology and the origin of the name of our continent – in the watermark and the hologram. The new banknotes will be introduced gradually over several years, starting with the €5 banknote in May 2013.

The Europa series has benefited from advances in banknote technology since the first series was introduced over ten years ago. Its security features have been enhanced, which will help to make the banknotes even more secure. Three new features – the portrait watermark, portrait hologram and emerald number – have been unveiled today.

The new banknotes are an evolution. Like the first series, they will have the “ages and styles” design and the same dominant colours, but they have been modified to accommodate the enhanced security features. They will be easy to distinguish from the first series. The Europa series will have the same denominations as its predecessor, i.e. €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500, and they will be introduced in ascending order. Thus, the new €10 banknote will follow the €5.

The first series will initially circulate alongside the new banknotes, but will gradually be withdrawn and eventually cease to be legal tender. The date when this occurs will be announced well in advance. However, the banknotes of the first series will retain their value indefinitely and can be exchanged at the Eurosystem NCBs at any time.

The Europa series €5 banknote will be unveiled in full on 10 January 2013 and credit institutions will start to issue the new notes over the counter or via cash dispensers in May next year.

In order to raise public awareness of the Europa series, the ECB and the NCBs of the Eurosystem will be conducting a multi-channel information campaign across the euro area in 2013. Preparations are currently under way, supported by two agencies chosen by the ECB following a public tender."

Courtesy of Ricardo Castedo, J. M. Peso, Alex Zlotin, and José Luis Arrayás.

European Monetary Union to issue new notes in 2013

According to an article on EUObserver dated 5 November 2012, "The European Central Bank is Thursday to present a plan for replacing current euro notes with safer ones from [May] 2013, Hessischer Rundfunk reported Sunday. The second generation euro notes will still have values from five to €500, but motifs will change and improved security features will make forgery more difficult."

Courtesy of José Luis Arrayás.

Moldova 1-leu commemorative declared a fake

Moldova_BNM_1_L_2006.00.00_BNP1_PNL_A.0175_000042_f
This note supposedly commemorates the 15th anniversary of the Moldovan leu, which was introduced on 29 November 1993. Apparently the first 150 1-leu notes dated 2006 were embossed in the Czech Republic with a gold medalion at right front containing the bank logo, the words 15 ANI (15 years), and Ştefan cel Mare.

However, the National Bank of Moldova has declared this privately produced numismatic product a fake.

Courtesy of the National Bank of Moldova, James Pickering, Vadim Tislenko, and Dmitry Zagorenko.

Northern Ireland's Northern Bank to become Danske Bank by end of 2012

According to an article in the Belfast Telegraph dated 11 May 2012, by the end of 2012 Northern Bank will be rebranded under the name of its Danish parent, Danske Bank, with new banknotes in circulation within a year.

According to an article in The Irish News dated 20 October 2012, Northern Bank plans a "full communications programme" in advance of introducing the new Danske Bank-branded banknotes in mid-2013. "Apart from the Northern Bank logo being replaced by a Danske Bank logo all other features of the note will remain basically the same," said the bank.


Norway new sig/date (2011) 50-kroner note confirmed

Norway_NB_50_K_2011.00.00_P46_sig
50 kroner (US$8.70), 2011. Like P46, but new date and signatures (Øystein Olsen / Trond Eklund).

Courtesy of Håkon Meidell-Pritzier Hagelund.

Romania new date (2012) 10-leu note (B281e) confirmed

Like B281d, but new date.

Courtesy of Daniel Mendea.

Macedonia new sig/date (00.12.2011) 10-denar note (B206i) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_10_D_2011.00.00_B6i_P14_ЧБ_104300_sig
Like B206h, but new date (Декември 2011) and signature (Dimitar Bogov).

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

Denmark new date (2011) 200-kroner note confirmed

Denmark_DN_200_K_2011.00.00_P67_A4_564972C_sig
200 kroner (US$35), (20)11. Like P67, but new date, new signatures, and prefix A4.

Courtesy of Christoph Thomas.

Trans-Dniester corrected 500-ruble note confirmed

Trans-Dniestria_TDRB_500_R_2004.00.00_B8b_P41_AB_2169375_detail
500 rubles (US$59), 2004. Like TDRB B8a (P41), but with Ukrainian E on series prefix AA (top) corrected to I on series prefix AB (bottom) as 6th character, 1st word, 3rd line of text on front, and I instead of backwards N as 8th character, 2nd word, 3rd line. Prefix AB.

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

Great Britain new sig 5-, 10-, and 20-pound notes confirmed

According to a press release, on 12 September 2012, the Bank of England issued 5-, 10-, and 20-pound (US$8, $16, and $32, respectively) notes bearing the signature of the current chief cashier, Chris Salmon. These notes are like the preceding issues (P391, P389, and P392) and will circulate in parallel.

"The new notes bearing Chris Salmon’s signature were produced with printing plates made under a different manufacturing method. This has not changed the appearance of the notes. De La Rue previously used printing plates produced via the film exposure method. However, due to the diminishing demand for this technology in the printing community, De La Rue have changed to printing plates which are produced via the direct laser engraving method, known as ‘computer to plate’ technology."

Great_Britain_BOE_5_P_2002.00.00_P391_LE82_336109_sigGreat_Britain_BOE_10_P_2000.00.00_P389_JH77_092584_sigGreat_Britain_BOE_20_P_2006.00.00_P392_HA50_797767_sig

Courtesy of Antje González and Pam West.

Romania new date (2011) 10-leu note (B281d) confirmed

Like B281c, but new date (20)11.

Courtesy of Christoph Thomas.

European Central Bank rumored to use Europa design on new notes

According to an article on Bloomberg dated 31 August 2012, the European Central Bank is said to be using an image of Europa from Greek mythology on its new euro banknotes due to be unveiled in November and issued starting in May 2013.

Courtesy of Lars Kersten and Mehdi Kasumov.

Euro notes with new security features expected in 2013

According to an article in Standart News dated 24 August 2012, the European Central Bank is set to issue new euro banknotes with enhanced security features at the beginning of 2013. More details are expected this autumn.

Isle of Man chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Isle of Man 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 Isle of Man Government from 1961 to present. Revised 15 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
  • Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Royal Bank of Scotland new sig/date (30.11.2010) 20-pound note confirmed

Scotland_RBS_20_P_2010.11.30_P354_C-10_190634_sig
20 pounds (US$31), 30th NOVEMBER 2010. Like P354, but new date and new signature (Stephen Hester).

Courtesy of Pam West.

Serbia new 100-dinar banknote confirmed

Serbia_NBS_100_D_2012.00.00_B17a_PNL_AA_0006346_fSerbia_NBS_100_D_2012.00.00_B17a_PNL_AA_0006346_r
According to a press release dated 11 May 2012, the National Bank of Serbia has issued a new 100-dinar (US$1.15) banknote which is like NBS B9 (P49), "but the back contains the Great Coat-of-Arms of the Republic of Serbia in a new design, in accordance with the Decree on Establishing the Original Great and Small Coat-of-Arms, Flag and National Anthem of the Republic of Serbia (RS Official Gazette, No. 85 of 15 November 2010). The year of issue (’2012’) and the Governor’s signature have also been changed."

With this release, only the 5,000-dinar (US$57) note has yet to be issued with the new coat of arms.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn, Dragan Peric, and Matej Omahen.

European Monetary Union new signature 10-euro note confirmed

European_Union_ECB_10_E_2002.00.00_B2c_P2_X_71960283299_sig
10 euros (US$12), 2002. Like P2, but new signature (Mario Draghi). Confirmed with X country code for Germany and P printer code for G&D. Also reported X for Germany and E for Oberthur, as well as T for Ireland and K for Central Bank of Ireland.

Courtesy of Merjim Groen and Peter Mosselberger.

Serbian Krajina chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 11-page catalog covers notes issued by the Република Српска Крајина / Republika Srpska Krajina (Republic of Serbian Krajina) in 1992, and the Narodna Banka Republike Srpske Krajine (National Bank of the Republic of Serbian Krajina) from 1992 to 1994. Revised 16 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
  • Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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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Bosnia and Herzegovina new notes confirmed

Bosnia_Herzegovina_10_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_F_00000000_f
Bosnia_Herzegovina_10_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_F_00000000_r
Bosnia_Herzegovina_Serb_10_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_F_00000000_f
Bosnia_Herzegovina_Serb_10_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_F_00000000_r
Bosnia_Herzegovina_20_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_E_00000000_f
Bosnia_Herzegovina_20_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_E_00000000_r
Bosnia_Herzegovina_Serb_20_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_E_00000000_f
Bosnia_Herzegovina_Serb_20_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_E_00000000_r
Bosnia_Herzegovina_50_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_F_00000000_fBosnia_Herzegovina_50_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_F_00000000_r
Bosnia_Herzegovina_Serb_50_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_F_00000000_f
Bosnia_Herzegovina_Serb_50_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_F_00000000_r
Bosnia_Herzegovina_100_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_E_00000000_f
Bosnia_Herzegovina_100_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_E_00000000_rBosnia_Herzegovina_Serb_100_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_E_00000000_f
Bosnia_Herzegovina_Serb_100_KM_2012.00.00_PNLs_E_00000000_r
According to a press release dated 23 May 2012, the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina issued new banknotes denominated in 10, 20, 50, and 100 marka (US$7.10-$71) on 1 June 2012. The new notes dated 2012 feature the same designs as the preceding issues, but improved paper quality, and enhanced security, including multi-tone and electrotype watermarks, Motion and solid security threads with demetalized text, iridescent stripes, microprinting, UV ink, and optically variable inks. Both issued and specimen varieties have been confirmed.

Courtesy of Sami Kiuru, Mojmir Cerny, and James Pickering (www.e-worldbanknotes.com or James@e-worldbanknotes.com).

Romania new date (2012) 1-leu note (B278g) confirmed

Romania_BNR_1_L_2012.00.00_P117b_122F_2160901_date
Like B278f, but new date (2012).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Just World Banknotes.

Jersey new 100-pound commemorative note confirmed

Jersey_SOJ_100_P_2012.00.00_B32a_PNL_EQ690_002210_fJersey_SOJ_100_P_2012.00.00_B32a_PNL_EQ690_002210_r
Jersey_SOJ_100_P_2012.00.00_B32a_PNL_EQ690_002210_sig
SOJ B32 (PNL): 100 pounds (US$162)
Purple. Front: Three lions passant guardant; crowned ERII Diamond Jubilee 1952 - 2012 overprint; outline map of Jersey; Queen Elizabeth II wearing King George IV’s state diadem and a pearl necklace. Back (vertical): Three lions passant guardant; Royal Mace of Jersey; Jersey flag. Dual Image Holographic stripe. 4-mm wide StarChorme Cleartext windowed security thread with demetalized Royal Mace and JERSEY 100. Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II, electrotype 100, and Cornerstones. Printer: DE LA RUE. 163 x 90 mm.
a. 2012. Signature 7. Intro: 01.06.2012.

The 100-pound note was also sold in a commemorative Diamond Jubilee wallet (priced at £105) or as part of a limited edition commemorative folder (priced at £245) containing a 10-pound commemorative postage stamp.

Courtesy of yuri111, Pam West, Shibu Paul & Ashley Alexander (www.ebanknoteshop.com), and Marcus Jansson.

Guernsey new 20-pound Diamond Jubilee commemorative note confirmed

Guernsey_SOG_20_P_2012.00.00_PNL_QE_60_005101_f
Guernsey_SOG_20_P_2012.00.00_PNL_QE-60_005101_sig
The States of Guernesy have issued a 20-pound (US$31) banknote to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The notes include the prefix QE60, a commemorative laurel wreath, and additional wording. The back remains the same as the preceding regular issue of this denomination. A total of 150,000 of the notes have been issued and will circulate alongside the current £20 note. Uncirculated notes can be purchased through the Guernsey Philatelic Bureau at Envoy House (philatelic@guernseypost.com). The notes have been designed and produced by De La Rue Currency, a company started by Guernseyman Thomas De La Rue in the 19th Century.

Courtesy of Shibu Paul and Pam West.

Scotland new 10-pound commemorative note confirmed

Scotland_RBS_10_P_2012.05.23_PNL_TQDJ_1569933_f
Scotland_RBS_10_P_2012.05.23_PNL_TQDJ_1569933_r
Scotland_RBS_10_P_2012.05.23_PNL_TQDJ_1569933_sig
On 23 May 2012, the Royal Bank of Scotland introduced a new 10-pound (US$16) note commemorating the diamond jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. The note is dated 6 February, the anniversary of the day of Her Majesty's accession to the throne.

Other features include:
  • the official crown emblem of the Diamond Jubilee
  • four intaglio portraits of the Queen, showing her at different stages in her life
  • an engraving of a window in Holyrood Abbey
  • a thistle design, related to the Order of the Thistle
  • serial numbers with the prefix TQDJ, standing for The Queen's Diamond Jubilee.
The note is available in branches in Scotland. Customers outside Scotland can order up to 20 notes for the face value plus 5.90 pounds postage. Two million of the notes will be issued, with initial supplies already in circulation, to celebrate the Queen's 60-year reign.

Some of the new notes, and other rare RBS banknotes, will be sold at a charity auction later in the year, with the proceeds going to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Charity Trust. Notes with special serial numbers have been donated to the Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT), Oxfam, National Museum of Scotland, Scottish Rugby Union, Scottish Golf Union and the STV Children's Appeal.

Courtesy of Alessio Amato, Jens Luettschwager, Pam West.

Royal Bank of Scotland to auction rare notes

According to an article on Scotsman.com dated 19 May 2012, the Royal Bank of Scotland will auction off some of its rare notes at a charity benefit for the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubliee Trust.

Norway new date (2010) 100-krone note confirmed

100 kroner (US$17), 2010. Like P49, but new date and prefix letter before serial number.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Sweden unveils artistic starting point for new notes

Sverigis Riksbank, Sweden's central bank, has unveiled the artistic starting point for its new series of banknotes. The competition concluded in April 2012 and the jury chose "Kulturresan/Cultural journey" as the winning design. The General Council of the Riksbank decided that Göran Österlund's entry "Kulturresan/Cultural journey" would form the artistic starting point for the new banknotes.

WEBB_Kulturresan_480

  • 20 kronor: Astrid Lindgren, Småland
  • 50 kronor: Evert Taube, Bohuslän
  • 100 kronor: Greta Garbo, Stockholm
  • 200 kronor: Ingmar Bergman, Gotland
  • 500 kronor: Birgit Nilsson, Skåne
  • 1000 kronor: Dag Hammarskjöld, Lappland


Courtesy of Marcus Jansson and Thomas Krause.




Press release: Gibraltar's Currency & Banknotes 1898-2011

Gibraltar's Currency & Banknotes 1898-2011
Gibraltar's Currency & Banknotes 1898-2011
by Richard J. M. Garcia, 109 pages, soft cover, 250 x 150 mm, color illustrations, English, ISBN 978-1-919663-09-8, US$24.95 (airmail postage included), braid@gibtelecom.net

Richard Garcia’s latest book addresses a topic that has never hitherto been studied, that of money in Gibraltar from 1898 to 2011. The choice of dates was deliberate. Gibraltar adopted sterling currency as the only legal tender in Gibraltar in 1898. It was in 2011 that the Gibraltar Government assumed sole responsibility for the design, printing and production of banknotes, taking over responsibilities that until then had been the preserve of a Secretary of State in England. A lot happened in between.

The book is not just about banknotes: it sets out to place Gibraltar’s currency in a social history context, looking at how Gibraltar was changing and developing and how these changes were reflected by our banknotes and coinage. It is the fruit of research in the Government Archives and in the Treasury. It explores a number of areas including:

  • Why Gibraltar adopted sterling currency in 1898. The accepted reason for this has hitherto been that it was the result of the inflation which accompanied the war of 1898 between Spain and the United States. This was not, in fact, the case.
  • Why Gibraltar chose to issue banknotes in 1914, at the time of the outbreak of World War I, and the procedure that was followed in arriving at the design of the banknotes and printing them, without previously having consulted London.
  • The financial crisis that arose on the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936.
  • What happened in Gibraltar during World War II in terms of demand for currency notes in the light of the evacuation, the feared invasion of Gibraltar, and the build-up of troops in Gibraltar.
  • The impact of the Spanish blockade of the 1960s and the eventual closure by Spain of the land frontier with Gibraltar and the withdrawal of Spanish labour.
  • The introduction of decimal currency in 1971.
  • The introduction of Gibraltar circulating coins.
  • The reasons for the subsequent issue of higher denomination currency notes.

There are 52 colour illustrations in the book. The design of the front and back of every design used for a Gibraltar banknote is depicted, including the rare notes of 1914. There is also a complete listing of all 73 currency notes issued by Gibraltar, indicating the date of issue of the note and the signature on it.

The book is a companion to the article written by Richard Garcia and which was published in the Gibraltar Heritage Trust journal, tracing Gibraltar’s currency from 1704 to 1872, when Spanish currency was adopted as Gibraltar’s only legal tender.

Check out other book reviews and news on the Books page of this site.

Switzerland new signature varieties expected

According to a press release dated 18 April 2012, Thomas Jordan has been appointed to be the new chairman of the governing board of the Swiss National Bank. This move, along with other staff changes, means new signature combinations are likely on Swiss notes.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Faroe Islands new note family confirmed

According to Danmarks Nationalbank, on 19 March 2012 an updated version of the Faroese banknote series with new security features was put in circulation. The notes are identical to the current issues, but with new Motion windowed security threads and perfect registration devices instead of holographic patches on the fronts, and mother-of-pearl threads and fluorescent colors added on the backs. Existing notes will circulate in parallel with the new notes.

Faroe_Islands_F_50_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_564430L_f
Faroe_Islands_F_50_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_564430L_r

Faroe_Islands_F_100_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_078060H_f
Faroe_Islands_F_100_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_078060H_r

Faroe_Islands_F_200_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_570167B_f
Faroe_Islands_F_200_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_570167B_r

Faroe_Islands_F_500_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_047608F_f
Faroe_Islands_F_500_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_047608F_r

Faroe_Islands_F_1000_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_547705F_f
Faroe_Islands_F_1000_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_547705F_r

Faroe_Islands_F_100_K_2011.00.00_PNL_C0_078060H_sig
Signators on all denominations are Dan M. Knudsen and Aksel V. Johannesen

Courtesy of Jan Skoalid (www.worldbanknotes.dk) and Jan Ove Larsen.

Scotland new sig/date (01.08.2011) 5- and 50-pound notes confirmed

Scotland_BOS_50_P_2011.08.01_P127_AC_002088_sig
5 pounds (US$7.90) and 50 pounds (US$79.25), 1st AUGUST 2011. Like P124 and P127, respectively, but new date and new signatures (Antonio Horta-Osorio and P. Grant).

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

European Monetary Union banknotes with new signature (Draghi) confirmed

signature_dtd
According to an artilce on Focus dated 18 March 2012, the European Central Bank has begun circulating banknotes with the signature of Mario Draghi, who has served as ECB president since 1 November 2011, following Jean-Claude Trichet and Willem Duisenberg. All other features of the euro notes remain the same, including the copyright date.

Courtesy of Richard Miranda and Claudio Marana.

Iceland new 10,000-króna note (B817a) reported for 2013

According to an article in Iceland Review Online dated 2 April 2012, Már Guðmundsson, governor of Sedlabanki Islands, Iceland's central bank, says the bank will issue a 10,000-króna (US$79) note in the autumn of 2013, double the largest denomination in use currently. The new 10,000-króna note will have improved safety features than older bank notes. It will have decorations related to national poet Jónas Hallgrímsson, as well as a picture of the golden plover.

Courtesy of Jay Mollindo and Richard Miranda.

Belarus new 200,000-ruble note confirmed

Belarus_NBRB_200000_R_2000.00.00_B37a_PNL_TH_0933951_f
Belarus_NBRB_200000_R_2000.00.00_B37a_PNL_TH_0933951_r
Belarus_NBRB_200000_R_2000.00.00_B37a_PNL_TH_0933951_sig
According to a press release dated 12 March 2012, the National Bank of Belarus has issued a new 200,000-ruble (US$24.15) note. This denomination is twice as large as the previous biggest note in Belarus.

The new 200,000-ruble note is predominently green and measures 150 x 74 mm. The front depicts the Mogilev Regional Art Museum, and the back illustrates a decorative collage of architectural elements of the museum building. The note has a windowed security thread with demetalized text, and a watermark of fragments of the stucco ceiling of the museum with electrotype bank initials. Furthermore, there is a color latent image.

The bank has also proposed withdrawing 10- and 20-ruble notes, and rounding prices to the nearest 50 ruble. Also, it has not ruled out issuing even larger denominations if needed. In an article in the Telegraf dated 13 March 2012, deputy head of the National Bank Vladimir Senko said there's no need to revalue the currency at this time.



Courtesy of Thomas Krause and Богданов Иван/Ivan Bogdanov (http://bonistics.org/banknote/100685/).

Hungary new date (2012) 10,000-forint note (B585c) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_10000_forint_2012.00.00_B585c_P200_AA_9288121_fHungary_MNB_10000_forint_2012.00.00_B585c_P200_AA_9288121_r
Like B585b, but new date (2012).

Courtesy of Szilard Szemere.

Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 100-kryvnia note (B851b) confirmed

Ukraine_BNU_100_H_2011.00.00_P122_MП_8711798_sig
100 гривень (hryven), 2011. Like B851a, but new date and new signature (Serhii Arbuzov). Intro: 01.03.2012.

Courtesy of Dmitry Zagorenko (http://bonistica.ru).

Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 20-kryvnia note (B849c) confirmed

Ukraine_20_2011.00.00_P120_sig
20 гривень (hryven), 2011. Like B849b, but new date and new signature (Serhii Arbuzov). Intro: 01.03.2012.

Courtesy of Dmitry Zagorenko (http://bonistica.ru).

Czech Republic chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Czech Republic 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 Česká Národní Banka (Czech National Bank) from 1993 to present. Revised 29 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
  • Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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.

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Northern Ireland's Northern Bank new 20-pound note confirmed

Northern_Ireland_NB_20_P_2009.04.12_PNL_HH_4194795_fNorthern_Ireland_NB_20_P_2009.04.12_PNL_HH_4194795_r
Northern_Ireland_NB_20_P_2009.04.12_PNL_HH_4194795_sig
In 2011, Northern Bank in Belfast introduced a new 20-pound (US$31) note that is like P207, but new date (15th April 2009), new signature, new gold foil, Cornerstone watermarks, and slightly redesigned front and back to accommodate the new bank logo.

Courtesy of Marian Klubert and Claudio Marana.

Book Review: Coins and Banknotes of Yugoslavia, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia

Coins and Banknotes cover
Coins and Banknotes of Yugoslavia, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia
Zlatko Viščević, 1173 pages, soft cover, 192 x 120 mm, black and white illustrations, Croatian and English, ISBN 978-953-56890-0-3, US$52 / €40 plus shipping, www.hrvatskanumizmatika.net

Download the free sample chapter: Coins and Banknotes of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.

Reviewed by Owen W. Linzmayer 7962

As author Zlatko Viščević mentions in the introduction to his impressive new catalog, collecting banknotes from the area of the former Yugoslavia can be quite challenging due to the large number of notes issued over the years. Compounding the problem is the Serbo-Croatian text on these notes and the complicated history of the region, both of which may be unfamiliar to many collectors. This new catalog doesn’t attempt to explain the tumultuous politics of the past three centuries, but is an invaluable addition to the reference library of anyone who specializes in collecting notes from this part of the world.

The first edition of this catalog was published in 2007. The second edition covers regular and commemorative notes issued in the intervening years, goes into greater depth in the descriptions, and now also includes special, fantasy, and private issues. In short, if you already own the first edition and like it, you’ll definitely want to buy the much-improved and expanded second edition.

Coins and Banknotes’ title spells out exactly what’s inside. The first half of the book is devoted to coins, the second half to notes, with chapters for the seven countries in each section. Within the chapters, the coins and notes are listed chronologically by denomination, which makes it easy to locate a particular piece and track changes over time, but at the expense of presenting complete families with common or complementary designs.

Each note type listing contains the denomination, catalog number, cross-references to Pick numbers and other specialized catalogs, reduced-size illustrations of the front and back, description of design elements and security features, and finally a list of varieties, with checkboxes for tracking your collection. Each variety is assigned a six-level rarity rating, and has values in euros for up to four levels of condition. Some notes also have auction results at the bottom of the page, though the values and results don’t always agree. Occasionally there are inset illustrations of details which determine varieties. These are useful in most cases, but sometimes the differences aren’t obvious due to the small size or lack of color in their reproduction.

Specialized collectors will appreciate the comprehensive lists of prefixes, as well as the inclusion of specimen and replacement notes in the variety tables, not to mention the assortment of “irregular issues” (color trials, partial proofs, etc.) and private/fantasy notes covered separately. While there isn’t much explanatory text regarding these issues, anyone interested in pursuing further research can consult the bibliography of source books and web sites at the end of each chapter.

The longer passages of prose in the catalog are presented in both Croatian and English, but the descriptions of the notes and their varieties are in Croatian only, which is a little frustrating if you care about such details and don’t want to rely upon Google Translate. Fortunately the English text everywhere else in the book is good enough that it’s easy to overlook the minor typos and understand the gist of the intended meaning.

One complaint I have about the catalog is its size. This is a bulky, compact tome measuring a whopping 55 millimeters thick, and heavy enough to break a toe if dropped on a foot. I would have preferred the coin and banknote sections split into two separate volumes, both printed in a larger format. As it is, the small black and white illustrations don’t do justice to the beauty of the notes, and the tiny text is hard to read if your eyesight isn’t perfect.

With this second edition, Zlatko Viščević has created a solid reference for collectors of notes of Yugoslavia and its constituent republics from 1849 to 2011. Coins and Banknotes delivers a dense helping of numismatic information at price that can’t be beat.

England considering polymer notes

CentralBanking.com has an interesting video on its web site interviewing Chris Salmon, the chief cashier at the Bank of England, discussing various matters related to the new 50-pound (US$78) note, as well as confirming that the BoE is examining polymer substrates for possible use in the future.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause.

Hungary turns cash to ash

According to an article on BBC dated 8 March 2012, Magyar Nemzeti Bank (Central Bank of Hungary) has come up with a unqiue way of getting rid of old banknotes. It compresses shredded notes into blocks containing $20,000 worth of old forint notes, then gives the blocks to charities to burn as heating fuel.

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

Jersey 100-pound diamond jubilee commemorative details emerge

The States of Jersey have posted a press release with new details regarding the 100-pound (US$157) note commemorating the diamond jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, due to be issued 1 June 2012. The note will be legal tender and available for circulation at face value from local banks, in uncirculated condition for “a small administration charge,” and also as a numismatic product in a commemorative presentation pack.

Courtesy of Marcus Jansson.

Sweden emergency banknotes of the 1950s

Here’s an interesting article about Sweden’s secret stash of emergency banknotes which were printed in London during the 1950s, but were never issued.

Courtesy of Håkon Hagelund.

Norway emergency banknotes of the 1980s

Here’s an interesting article about Norway’s secret stash of emergency banknotes which were printed in the 1980s, but eventually destroyed.

Courtesy of Håkon Hagelund.

German emergency banknotes of the 1960s

Here’s an interesting article (in German) about a series of emergency notes prepared in the early 1960s in West Germany.

Courtesy of Dustin.

Belarus currency prank at checkout

Here’s a funny video of a bunch of young men in Minsk, Belarus paying for Russian Kvas drinks with a backpack full of practically worthless banknotes.



Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Belarus banknote history examined

Check out this great article on the history of banknotes in Belarus, including images of many unadopted note designs.

This follow-up to the first article includes even more images of many unadopted note designs.

Use Google Translate if you can’t read these articles in their native language.

Courtesy of Vitali Khaletski.

Romania new 130-ani commemorative note confirmed


On 26 November 2011, gandul.info posted the above photo. Apparently the Banca Naţională a României created 500 banknote-like numismatic products to commemorate the bank’s 130th anniversary. If you examine the images below, you’ll see these are not banknotes. They aren’t denominated in Romanian leu, and the “serial numbers” on back simply indicate the 130 A (ani = year) span between 1881 and 2011.



Courtesy of Alex Klark and Thomas Krause.

Monaco chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 3-page catalog covers notes issued by the Principauté de Monaco (Principality of Monaco) in 1920. Revised 2 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
  • Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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“Sign

Belarus 50,000-ruble note contains error in microprinting



According to a Belarus Partisan article dated 23 February 2012, the 50,000-ruble (US$6.10) note which depicts Mir Castle has an error in the microprinting above the serial number at upper right on the back. If written properly in Belarusian, the name of Mir Castle should read МІРСКІ ЗАМАК (as it is written in large type in the caption on the front, as well as in the mircorprinted rectangle below the denomination at upper left on the front), but instead the text is written МИРСКІ ЗАМАК. Officials at the KGB and the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus claim that this is an intentional error intended to trip up counterfeiters, which may be true. Then again, it’s possible that the Russian engravers at Goznak simply made a mistake that has gone undetected for a decade.

This “error” appears on both the original 50,000-ruble note (NBRB B32 / P32) issued in 2002 with solid security thread, as well as on the modified note (NBRB B35 / PNL) issued in 2010 with windowed security thread.

Use Google Translate if you can’t read the article in its native language.

Courtesy of Vitali Khaletski.



Denmark new sig/date (2011) 50-krone notes confirmed


50 kroner (US$8.85), (20)11. Like P65, but new signatures and new date (last two digits of year are middle characters in alphanumeric code at lower right front).

Courtesy of Haris Numismatik.

Switzerland delays introduction of new notes until 2013

According to a press release dated 9 February 2012, the Swiss National Bank has delayed the introduction of its new banknote series “for at least one year.” The new series was expected to be issued “towards the end of 2012,” but “unexpected technical problems were encountered.” The 50-franc note was to be the first denomination issued in the new series, and this note is expected to be printed on Landqart’s Durasafe hybrid substrate. No word yet on whether the innovative substrate contributed to the technical problems in production.

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Andorra chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 3-page catalog covers notes issued by the Consell General de les Valls d’Andorra (General Council of the Valls d’Andorra) in 1936. Revised 11 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.

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Serbia new 2,000-dinar note confirmed


According to a press release dated 23.12.2011, the National Bank of Serbia issued a new 2,000-dinar (US$25.27) banknote on 30 December 2011. This note is intended to ease economic transactions by filling the gap between the 1,000 and 5,000 dinar denominations. The new note features a portrait of scientist Milutin Milanković on front and fragments of his scientific works on back.

Governor Dejan Soskic claimed, “New banknotes from 2,000 dinars will reduce the total amount of banknotes in circulation for about 20 million pieces, and therefore the cost of production for about 170 million dinars, will facilitate the operations of money and will complete the current series of banknotes issued by the National Bank of Serbia.” The new banknotes have machine-readable security elements, OVD, holograms, and embedded fibers that make the new Serbian banknote extremely difficult to counterfeit.

Courtesy of David Murcek (www.themonetaryunit.com), Matej Omahen, Andrija MIlosevic, Mojmir Cerny, and Radio-televizija Srbije.

Serbia new 500- and 1,000-dinar notes confirmed




According to a press release, on 30 December 2011, the National Bank of Serbia issued modified 500- and 1,000-dinar (US$6 and $12, respectively) notes which feature a new design of the coat of arms on the back, in accordance with the Decree on Establishing the Original Great and Small Coat-of-Arms, Flag and National Anthem of the Republic of Serbia (RS Official Gazette, No 85 of 15 November 2010). The date on these notes is 2011. Both notes will circulate in parallel with preceding issues of the same denominations.

Courtesy of David Murcek (www.themonetaryunit.com), Claudio Marana, and Matej Omahen.

Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 2-hryvnia note (B845c) confirmed


2 гривні (hryvni), 2011. Like B845b, but new date and signature (Serhii Arbuzov).

Courtesy of Aleksey Gladkov.

Memel chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 4-page catalog covers notes issued by the Handelskammer des Memelgebiets (Chamber of Commerce of the Memel Territory) in 1922. Revised 20 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.

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Banco de España's Billetaria journal covers euro's 1st decade

Billetaria is a half-yearly publication created and co-ordinated by the Cash and Issue Department of the Banco de España in collaboration with its counterparts from the Banco de México and the Banco Central de la República Argentina. It is aimed at cash management professionals from central banks all around the world, offering opinion-based and technical articles written by experts from central banks or banknote printers.

The newest issue has recently been published and it focuses on the first decade of the euro, with many articles of potential interest to banknote collectors. Click here to get your free Flash or PDF copy of Billetaria now.

Saar chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 3-page catalog covers notes issued by the Mines Domaniales de la Sarre (State-Owned Mines of the Saar) in 1919 and the Treasury in 1947. Revised 29 December 2014.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Belarus chairperson discusses new denominations and currency revaluation

According to a Charter 97 article dated 16 December 2011, “I think that there will be no denomination [currency revaluation] next year. I cannot tell for sure,” stated Nadzeja Yermakova, the chairperson of the board of the National Bank of Belarus (NBB).

The bank is planning to issue a new 200,000-ruble (US$24) note, but when asked about larger denominations, including 500,000- and 1,000,000-ruble notes, Yermakova claimed that there are no such plans and said that if such high denominations were needed, it would be better to revalue the currency by removing several zeroes.

Even though they are worth less than a penny, Yermakova maintained that the 50- and 100-ruble banknotes are still needed, though she admited that the 10- and 20-ruble notes are “outdated.”

Switzerland new sig/date (2010) 50-franc note confirmed


50 francs (US$53), (20)10. Like P71, but new date and signatures (Hansueli Raggenbass and Jean-Pierre Danthine).

Courttesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Poland new Marie Curie 20-złoty commemorative confirmed


According to a post on www.numizmatyczny.pl, the National Bank of Poland is issuing a new numismatic product commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Prize in chemistry being awarded to Marie Curie. 60,000 pieces are being sold in a folder at 47 złotych each.

BNP13 (PNL): 20 złotych (US$6.65)
Brown and green. Front: Physicist Marie Skłodowska Curie; Sorbona w Paryżu (Sorbonne school building in Paris); coat of arms; Ra (atomic symbol for radium) in SPARK patch of concentric circles. Back: Curie quotation; Instytut Radowy w Warszawie (Radium Institute building in Warsaw); Nobel Prize medal for chemistry. Solid security thread with microprinted 20 Zł. Watermark: Marie Skłodowska Curie and electrotype denomination. Printer: PWPW S.A. 138 x 69 mm. 20 KWIETNIA 2011. Signatures: Marek Belka and Jerzy Stopyra. Intro: 09.12.2011.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk, Mario Hilge, Jan Bogus, and Claudio Marana.

Denmark new sig/date (2010) 100-krone note confirmed


100 kroner (US$18), (20)10. Like P66, but new date, new signatures, and series A3.

Anyone interested in buying one of these notes can contact the contributor by clicking the link below. Be sure to say you saw it mentioned on Banknotenews.com.

Courtesy of Pages Coins and Currency.

Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 500-hryvnia note (B853b) reported


500 гривень (hryven), 2011. Like B853a, but new date and new signature (Serhii Arbuzov).

Courtesy of Pavlo Kravchuk.

Ukraine not planning 1,000-hryvnia note

According to a Ukrainian Journal article dated 1 December 2011, the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) has no plans to issue a 1,000-hryvnia (US$125) banknote, says Viktor Zaivenko, deputy director general of the Money Circulation Department.

"The NBU has no such plans. And did not have [such plans]… The NBU is not working on issuing of 1,000 hryvnia banknotes and has not even designed them… The NBU thinks that the nominal range of banknotes as of today is sufficient for the economy," Zaivenko told reporters.

Currently the largest denomination in Ukraine is the 500-hryvnia note (P124), issued in 2006.

Scotland RBS new sig/date (21.11.2008) 5-pound note confirmed


5 pounds (US$7.85), 21st NOVEMBER 2008. Like P352, but new date and new signature (Stephen Hester). The first prefix with this sig/date is B/97.

Sweden new sig/date (2008) 20-krona note confirmed


20 kronor (US$3), (200)8. Like P63, but new date and new signature combination (Johan Gernandt and Stefan Ingves).

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Iceland new signature 500-króna note (B814b) confirmed

Iceland_SI_500_krónur_2001.05.22_B814b_P58_D_28855537_fIceland_SI_500_krónur_2001.05.22_B814b_P58_D_28855537_r
Like B814a, but new signatures (Davíð Oddsson and Ingimundur Friðriksson).

Courtesy of Werner Kober.

Switzerland new sig/date (2010) 50-franc note confirmed


50 francs (US$57), (20)10. Like P71, but new date and new signatures (Hansueli Raggenbass and Jordan).

Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.

Belarus new 100- and 5,000-ruble notes confirmed




According to a press release, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus introduced new 100-ruble (US$0.02) and 5,000-ruble (US$1) banknotes dated 2000. Both denominations retain their current designs (P26 and P29, respectively). The solid security thread is eliminated from the 100-ruble note as a cost-saving measure, whereas the 5,000-ruble note saw its security thread changed to a windowed thread with demetalized НБРБ, to strengthen its counterfeiting deterrence. The existing notes of the same denominations remain legal tender.

Courtesy of Vitali Khaletski, Didier Wiot, and Ivan Bogdanov (http://bonistics.org).

Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 5-hryvnia note (B846c) confirmed

5 гривень (hryven), 2011. Like B846b, but new date and new signature (Serhii Arbuzov).

Courtesy of Aleksey Gladkov (www.bonistika.net).

Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 200-hryvnia note (B852b) confirmed


200 гривень (hryven), 2011. Like B852a, but new date and new signature (Serhii Arbuzov).

Courtesy of Aleksey Gladkov (www.bonistika.net).

England new 50-pound note confirmed


50 pounds (US$80). Red. Front: Bank of England seal; Bank of England headquarters building in London; Queen Elizabeth II. Back: Entrepreneur Matthew Boulton; horse with rider and carriage outside Boulton’s Soho factory building; Whitbread steam engine; engineer James Watt; cogs. Solid and windowed Motion security threads. Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II and electrotype £50. Printer: (DLR). 156 x 85 mm. 2010. Signature Chris Salmon. Intro: 02.11.2011.



Read the Bank of England’s press release for more details.

Courtesy of Antje Ryberg.

Scotland new sig/date (19.01.2009) 50-pound note confirmed


50 pounds (US$80), 19th JANUARY 2009. Like P127, but new date and signatures (Daniels/Archie G. Kane Jr.).

Courtesy of Alan Bergson.

European Central Bank gets new governor on 01.11.2011


As of 1 November 2011, Mario Draghi takes over from Jean-Claude Trichet as governor of the European Central Bank. Draghi previously served as the head of the Bank of Italy since 29 December 2005. The change in governors will likely be followed by new signature varieties of euro banknotes.

Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.

Ukraine new 50-hryvnia numismatic product (BNP804) confirmed



According to a press release dated 5 October 2011, the National Bank of Ukraine has issued a new 50-hryvnia (US$6.25) banknote to commemorate the bank’s 20th anniversary, which are like the notes originally issued in 2004 (Pick 121), but with the phrase “НБУ 20 років” (NBU - 20 years) on the front in a green-to-gold color-shifting SPARK patch, and serial numbers NB 0000001 - 0001000.




While technically legal tender, the first 200 notes were encased in acrylic and packaged in a box containing a silver version of the note; the remaining 800 notes were sold in a commemorative folder.

Courtesy of Alexander Kirshankov, Thomas Krause, Aleksey Gladkov, and Olexandr Danishenko.

Serbia new 10-, 20-, and 200-dinar notes confirmed

On 30 September 2011, the National Bank of Serbia issued new notes dated 2011, denominated in 10, 20, and 200 dinars, all bearing the new Serbian coat of arms on back and a new signature (Dejan Šoškić, Governor).

Notes denominated in 100, 500, 1,000, and 5,000 dinars have not been similarly updated, but will probably be revised when stocks of these notes are exhausted.

Courtesy of Matej Omahen, Dragan, and Thomas Augustsson.

Norway appoints new governor to central bank


According to a Ministry of Finance press release dated 22 October 2010, Øystein Olsen has been appointed the new governor of Norges Bank for a six-year term beginning on 1 January 2011. New signature varieties are likely to follow.

Courtesy of Håkon Hagelund.

Belarus expected to issue 200,000-ruble note in 2012

According to a statement given by Chairman Nadezhda Ermakova on 20 October 2011, the National Bank of Belarus plans to issue a new 200,000-ruble (US$21.35) note in early 2012. The note will feature Belarusian architecture works. Additionally, the bank plans to withdraw 10- and 20-ruble notes and round off prices to the nearest 50 rubles.

Courtesy of Vitali Khaletski.

Slovakia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 16-page catalog covers notes issued by the Slovakia State in 1939; the Republic from 1939 to 1945; the Slovak National Bank from 1940 to 1944; the Slovak Republic in 1993; and the National Bank of Slovakia from 1993 to 2007. Revised 14 June 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

Subscribe
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England to issue new 50-pound note 02.11.2011

According to a press release dated 30 September 2011, “the Bank of England will introduce a new-style £50 banknote into circulation on 2 November 2011. The note will feature the renowned 18th century business partnership of entrepreneur Matthew Boulton and engineer James Watt.

“A range of new and enhanced security features have been incorporated into the design of the Boulton and Watt £50 banknote. Full details of these will be revealed when the new banknote is introduced into circulation, accompanied by a publicity and education campaign.

“The Boulton and Watt £50 banknote marks the first time two portraits have appeared together on the back of a Bank of England banknote. It will also be the first banknote in circulation to be signed by Chris Salmon, who was appointed as the Bank’s Executive Director, Banking Services and Chief Cashier in April 2011.

“As new-design banknotes are introduced so the notes they replace are withdrawn – although they can always be exchanged with the Bank of England for their face value.

“The Boulton and Watt £50 banknote will initially circulate in tandem with the current £50 banknote featuring Sir John Houblon, the first Governor of the Bank of England, which was introduced in 1994. The Bank will make an announcement regarding the withdrawal date of the Houblon £50 banknote in due course.”

Additional information and images are requested so that this report can be confirmed.

Isle of Man new 10-pound variety confirmed

The 10-pound (US$15.90) note issued by the Isle of Man Government has been confirmed with Q prefix and the printer imprint at lower center on back changed to DE LA RUE.

Courtesy of Mark Brook.

England contemplating polymer notes

According to an article in The Independent dated 4 September 2011, the Bank of England is considering a polymer 5-pound (US$8.05) note and a 50-pound (US$80) note with a transparent window (most likely De La Rue’s Optiks) to improve durability and protect against counterfeiting.

A source close to the BoE said: "This is at the evaluation stage. A decision won't be made for the next year or two and production a little while after that, but a plastic £5 note is a possibility even though it won't provide as much security as other options."

Courtesy Thomas Krause and Richard Miranda.

Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 1-hryvnia note (B844b) confirmed


1 гривня (hryvnia), 2011. Like B44a, but new date and new signature (Serhii Arbuzov). Intro: 1 September 2011.

Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov.

UN releases $1.5 billion in Libyan banknotes from DLR

The United Nations has approved the release of 1.86 billion (US$1.5 billion) worth of Libyan dinar banknotes printed by De La Rue. The notes had been held in the UK under sanctions imposed on the Gaddafi regime, but will now be delivered to the Central Bank of Libya.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Serbia new 50-dinar note confirmed


50 dinars (US$0.70), 2011. Like P40 (top), but new date, new signature (Dejan Šoškić, Governor), and modified coat of arms (more detailed illustration).

Courtesy of Alberto Fochi.

Malta chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 15-page catalog covers notes issued by the Government of Malta from 1914 to 1963, and the Central Bank of Malta from 1968 until 2008. Revised 5 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
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Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 10-kryvnia note (B848b) confirmed


10 гривень (hryven), 2011. Like B848a, but new date and new signature (Serhii Arbuzov). Intro: 1 July 2011.

Courtesy of Aleksey Gladkov (www.bonistika.net).

Austrian banknote firm may pull out of Syria contract

According to an Associated Press report dated 5 August 2011, OeBS (Oesterreichische Banknoten- und Sicherheitsdruck, Austria) is reviewing its contract to provide banknotes to the Central Bank of Syria. The Austria Press Agency reported that printing company OeBS—a subsidiary of Oesterreichischen Nationalbank, Austria’s central bank—has nearly completed the 2008 contract it has with Syria, and may pull out of the troubled country due to international pressure in the wake of the crackdown on protests against President Bashar Assad’s regime.



Macedonia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Macedonia 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 National Bank of Macedonia in 1992, and the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia from 1993 to present. Revised 11 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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Jersey to issue 100-pound commemorative note in 2012


According to a press release dated 2 August 2011, the States of Jersey will issue a 100-pound (US$162) note to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II in 2012. The note will feature artist Chris Levine’s holographic portrait of QEII called Equanimity.

Treasury and Resources Minister Philip Ozouf said, “In order to issue a new £100 note, I will be asking the States to amend the existing 1959 law which limits the maximum denomination of any currency note to £50. As with our most recent set of banknotes, the commemorative £100 note will feature English, French, and Jèrriais. I am hopeful that, as well as forming an integral and useful part of our currency, these new notes will become collectors’ pieces in their own right.”

Courtesy of Marcus Jansson.

Moldova chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Moldova 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 Banca Naţională a Moldovei (National Bank of Moldova) from 1992 to present. Revised 21 June 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Romania new date (2011) 5-leu note (B279e) confirmed


Like B279d, but new date (20)11.

Courtesy of Daniel Mendea.

Belarus new 500-ruble variety confirmed


500 rubles (US$0.10), 2000. Like P27, but with 2-mm wide windowed thread. Intro: 15.03.2011.

Courtesy of Ivan Bogdanov (http://bonistics.org).

Hungary new date (2011) 500-forint note (B581d) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_500_forint_2011.00.00_B581d_P196c_EA_9621091_fHungary_MNB_500_forint_2011.00.00_B581d_P196c_EA_9621091_r
Like B581c, but new date (2011).

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Belarus new 1,000-, 10,000- and 20,000-ruble varieties confirmed






On 15 March 2011, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus introduced new 500-ruble (US$0.15) banknotes, as well as 1,000-, 10,000-, and 20,000-ruble notes dated 2000. The modified notes have the same images, sizes, and colors as preceding issues also dated 2000, but feature a new 2-mm wide windowed security thread.

Courtesy of Vitali Khaletski, Elena Zoubarik, and Ivan Bogdanov (http://bonistics.org).

Trans-Dniester chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Trans-Dniester 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 Trans-Dniester Bank from 1994 to 1998, and the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank from 2000 to present. Revised 28 April 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Hungary new date (2011) 1,000-forint note (B582c) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_1000_forint_2011.00.00_B582c_P197c_DC_2420133_fHungary_MNB_1000_forint_2011.00.00_B582c_P197c_DC_2420133_r
Like B582b, but new date (2011) and new signatures.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Romania new date (2011) 1-leu note (B278f) confirmed


Like B278e), but new date (20)11.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause and Daniel Mendea.

Banco de España publishes Billetaria journal

Since 2007, Banco de España has been publishing Billetaria, a half-yearly publication created and co-ordinated by the Cash and Issue Department in collaboration with its counterparts from the Banco de México and the Banco Central de la República Argentina.

It is aimed at cash management professionals from central banks all around the world, offering opinion-based and technical articles written by experts from central banks or bank note printers.

It comes out in April and October and is circulated in 85 countries. Every two years, moreover, an extra edition is published focusing in depth on an individual topic.

The latest issue focuses on a new breed of substrates and makes for fascinating reading if you’re interested in technological advances as they apply to banknote security and longveity. Click here to download PDF copies of Billetaria.

Bohemia and Moravia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 7-page catalog covers notes issued by the Protektorat Böhmen und Mähren (Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia) from 1940 to 1944, and the Nationalbank Für Böhmen und Mähren in Prag (National Bank for Bohemia and Moravia in Prague) from 1942 to 1944. Revised 1 October 2014.

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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Liechtenstein chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 1-page catalog covers notes issued by the Fürstentum Liechtenstein (Principality of Liechtenstein) in 1920. Revised 2 May 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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“Sign

Iceland contemplating 10,000-króna banknote

According to an IceNews article dated 8 June 2011, Mar Gudmundsson, governor of Sedlabanki Islands (Central Bank of Iceland), believes the country needs a 10,000-króna (US$88) banknote following decades of inflation. Currently the 5,000-króna note (B816) is the largest denomination.

Albania chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Albania 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 National Bank of Albania from 1926 to 1940, the Albanian State Bank from 1945 to 1992, and the Bank of Albania from 1992 to present. Revised 22 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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Slovenia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 16-page catalog covers notes issued by the Hranilnica Ljubljanske Pokrajine in 1944, Republika Slovenija (Republic of Slovenia) from 1990 to 1992, and Banka Slovenije (Bank of Slovenia) from 1992 to present. Revised 15 June 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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Ukraine new sig/date (2011) 50-hryvnia note (B850c) confirmed


50 гривень (hryven), 2011. Like B850b, but new date and new signature (Serhii Arbuzov). Intro: 1 June 2011.

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko and Mykhaylo Kharytonov.

Denmark new 1,000-krone note confirmed


Dansmark National Bank unveiled the design of the new 1,000 krone (US$189) note issued 24 May 2011.

Confirmed with A0 prefix and the following signature combination (Hugo Frey Jensen and Lars Gerrild Sørensen):


Confirmed with A2 prefix and the following signature combinations:


The Great Belt Bridge
The Great Belt Bridge, consisting of the Eastern and Western sections was opened in 1998. The Eastern section links the island of Sprogø to Zealand and is 6,790 metres long. The Great Belt's Eastern Channel, spanned by the suspension bridge, has the status of international waters. The maximum vertical clearance is 65 metres. At 254 metres, the pylons are two of the highest points in Denmark.

The Sun Chariot
The Sun Chariot was found in September 1902 when Trundholm Bog in north-western Zealand was ploughed for the first time. It was made in the early Bronze Age in approximately 1400 BC. The elegant spiral ornamentation adorning the golden sun disc reveals its Nordic origins. The Sun Chariot demonstrates the belief that the sun was drawn on its eternal journey by a divine horse. However, the chariot is not intrinsic to this belief. Both the sun disc and horse are mounted on wheels to show the movement of the sun.

Courtesy of Jan Stuller, Sami Kiuru, Jens Luettschwager, and Haris Numismatik.

Denmark new 500-krone note confirmed


500-krone (US$91.65), (20)10 and (20)11.
Blue and brown. Front: Urn holographic patch; Dronning Alexandrines Bro, bridge across Ulvsund, connecting Kalvehave on South Zealand with island of Møn. Back: 4th-centrury bronze pail from Keldby on island of Møn; map. Solid security thread and windowed Motion security thread. Watermark: Unknown and electrotype 500. Printer: Unknown. 155 x 72 mm. Intro: 15.02.2011.

Oddly enough, the (20)10 dated note has been confirmed with prefix A2, and the (20)11 dated notes have been confirmed with prefixes A0 and A1.

Confirmed with the following signature pairs:

Torben Nielsen, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services
Nils Bernstein, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services
Jens Thomesen, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services

Dronning Alexandrines Bro
The bridge Dronning Alexandrines Bro, also called the Møn Bridge, was opened in 1943. The bridge across Ulvsund connects Kalvehave on South Zealand with the island of Møn. Dronning Alexandrines Bro is 746 metres long and has a maximum vertical clearance of 26 metres.

The bronze pail
The bronze pail from Keldby on the island of Møn was unearthed by a plough near Trehøje in the period before 1826. It was probably made in the 4th or early 3rd century BC. Other pails closely resembling this pail have been found in the Thracian area of the Black Sea in Southern Ukraine. Judging by the clearly Greek inspired ornamentation and shape, the pail could have been made in Macedonia or the Greek Black Sea colonies.

Courtesy of Mark Pedersen, Jan Stuller, and banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Icelandic banknote curator accused of stealing museum's notes

According to an IceNews article dated 21 May 2011, the curator of Islandsbanki’s old banknotes was arrested and accused of stealing notes from the bank’s museum and attempting to sell them to collectors.

Jersey chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 14-page catalog covers notes issued by the States of Jersey from 1941 to present. Revised 22 May 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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German Democratic Republic chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 13-page catalog covers notes issued by the Deutsche Rentenbank (German Treasury) in 1948, the Deutsche Notenbank (German Note-Issuing Bank) from 1948 to 1955, the Deutsche Notenbank DDR in 1964, and the Staatsbank der DDR (State Bank of the German Democratic Republic) from 1964 to 1999. Revised 25 November 2014.

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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Federal Republic of Germany chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


The Federal Republic of Germany 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 Bank deutscher Länder (Bank of the German States) from 1948 to 1949, and the Deutsche Bundesbank (German Central Bank) from 1960 to 1998. Revised 4 May 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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European Monetary Union 50-euro note oddity reported



Does anyone have any information about this 50-euro (Pick 4) note which appears to have CC3 printed near the 50 denomination in the lower right rear? The person reporting this note says it appears the CC3 was printed at the same time as the rest of the note, not as an overprint, but it’s hard to confirm based upon the scans provided. In any event, if you’ve seen other such notes or have any ideas on how/why it was created and what it’s worth, please post a comment.

UPDATE: Thomas Krause recommends this web site which shows hundreds of different stamps applied to euro notes.

Switzerland new sig/date (2008) 10-franc varieties confirmed


10 francs (US$11.35), (20)08. Like P67, but new date and member signatures (Roth and Jordan).

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Gibraltar new note family now complete

With the introduction of the £5, £20 and £100 denominations on 11 May 2011, Gibraltar’s new family of banknotes is now complete.



B30 (PNL): 5 pounds (US$7.20)
Green. Front: Queen Elizabeth II; coat of arms of castle with key. Back: Upper Ward and Tower of Homage of the Moorish castle. Windowed security thread with demetalized 5. Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II, electrotype £5, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). Unknown dimensions. 1st JANUARY 2011. Signature 14. Intro: 11.05.2011.



B31 (PNL): 10 pounds (US$14.45)
Blue. Front: Queen Elizabeth II; coat of arms of castle with key. Back: Artist John Trumbull’s “The Sortie Made by the Garrison of Gibraltar” depicting Spanish and English troops fighting and General George Eliott with officers attending to the dying Don José de Barboza during The Great Siege, 1779-83; General Eliot; rifles. Windowed security thread with demetalized 10. Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II, electrotype £10, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 141 x 75 mm. 1st JANUARY 2010. Sig. 14. Intro: 08.07.2010.



B32 (PNL): 20 pounds (US$28.90)
Orange and purple. Front: Queen Elizabeth II; coat of arms of castle with key. Back: HMS VICTORY RETURNING TO GIBRALTAR being towed by HMS Neptune after the Battle of Trafalgar. Windowed security thread with demetalized 20. Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II, electrotype £20, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). Unknown dimensions. 1st JANUARY 2011. Signature 14. Intro: 11.05.2011.


B33 (PNL): 50 pounds (US$72.25)
Red and brown. Front: Queen Elizabeth II; coat of arms of castle with key. Back: Casemates Square buildings. Windowed security thread with demetalized 50. Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II, electrotype £50, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). Unknown dimensions. 1st JANUARY 2010. Sig. 14. Intro: 08.07.2010.



B34 (PNL): 100 pounds (US$144.50)
Purple. Front: Queen Elizabeth II; coat of arms of castle with key. Back: King’s Bastion. Optiks security thread. Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II, electrotype £100, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). Unknown dimensions.
1st JANUARY 2011. Signature 14. Intro: 11.05.2011.


The above images come from the official Know Your New Gibraltar Banknotes PDF which contains additional information. The notes were released into circulation in two phases, the £10 and £50 on 08.07.2010 and the £5, £20 and £100 on 11.05.2011.

Courtesy of Marcus Jansson, Antje Ryberg, Ömer Yalcinkaya, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer.

Euro notes contain rare earth elements for luminescence

According to an article on SmarterScience, euro banknotes use a rare earth element known as europium to enhance the luminescence of anti-counterfeiting features.

Courtesy of Richard Bonkowski.

Switzerland new sig/date (2008) 20-franc varieties confirmed


20 francs (US$22.70), (20)08. Like P69, but new date and member signatures (Jordan and Hildebrand).

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Gibraltar chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 11-page catalog covers notes issued by the Government of Gibraltar from 1914 to present. Revised 2 April 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Belarus chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 15-page catalog covers notes issued by the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus from 1992 to present. Revised 26 July 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.

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Croatia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available


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

This 13-page catalog covers notes issued by the Independent State of Croatia from 1941, Croatian National Bank from 1943, Republic of Croatia from 1991, National Bank of Croatia from 1993, and Croatian National Bank from 2001. Revised 19 July 2016.

Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
  • Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
  • Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
  • Specific identification of all vignette elements
  • Security features described in full
  • Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
  • Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
  • Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
  • Date reproduced exactly as on note
  • Precise date of introduction noted when known
  • Replacement note information
  • Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
  • Background information for historical and cultural context
  • Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
  • Bibliographic sources listed for further research

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Belarus new 50- and 50,000-ruble notes confirmed

On 29 December 2010, the National Bank of Belarus introduced new 50- and 50,000-ruble banknotes to bring the inscriptions on the notes into compliance with the new rules of Belarusian spelling and punctuation. The images, colors, and sizes of the notes remain consistent with the preceding issues of the same denominations dated 2000 (P25 and P32, respectively) which circulate in parallel.

The modified 50-ruble notes have the following differences: no security thread and the spelling of the word ПЯЦДЗЯСЯТ instead of ПЯЦДЗЕСЯТ.



The modified 50,000-ruble notes have replaced the solid security thread for a 2-mm wide windowed security thread. In addition, it has the changed spelling of ПЯЦДЗЯСЯТ instead of ПЯЦДЗЕСЯТ.



Courtesy of Vitali Khaletsk, Rui Manuel Palhares, and banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Macedonia new date (00.09.2008) 100-denar note (B208i) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_100_denari_2008.09.00_B208i_P16a_ЦЃ_244268_fMacedonia_NBRM_100_denari_2008.09.00_B208i_P16a_ЦЃ_244268_r
Like B208h, but new date (СЕПТЕМВРИ 2008).

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Sweden announces design motifs for new notes due in 2014

The General Council of Sveriges Riksbank, Sweden’s central bank, has announced its choices for people and natural motifs to be featured on a new family of banknotes and coins:


Denomination
Portrait
Nature and environment motifs
20 krona
Astrid Lindgren 
Småland
50 krona
Evert Taube
Bohuslän
100 krona
Greta Garbo
Stockholm
200 krona
Ingmar Bergman
Gotland
500 krona
Birgit Nilsson
Skåne
1,000 krona
Dag Hammarskjöld
Lappland

The notes are to be printed on cotton substrate, and will be slightly smaller than the existing series. All notes will be 66-mm tall, with lengths graduating from 120 to 154 mm.

The bank will conduct a design competition later this year, and barring intellectual property law problems, the first of the new notes is slated for release in 2014.

Courtesy of Sami Kiuru, Martin Maillot, Martin Rydberg, Marcus Jansson.

Czech Republic withdraws 50-koruna banknote


On 1 April 2011, the Czech National Bank officially replaces the 50-koruna note (Pick 17) note with a coin as a cost-saving measure. Notes remain redeemable for another five years.

Courtesy of Jay Mollindo.

Scotland replacement note info requested

Collector Mick Wilson is trying to obtain a full breakdown of replacement Scottish banknotes.

He seeks info on the following:

Bank of issue
Denomination
Date on note
Serial number
300-dpi scans of the note.

Anyone who can assist Mick is encouraged to email him directly.

Bank of Estonia publishes third part of money catalog

Eesti Pank, the Bank of Estonia, has published the third part of Estonia's money catalog. The first and second volumes of the catalog published in 2007 include banknotes and circulation and collector coins that were issued during both the first Republic (1918-1940) and after the monetary reform of 1992 in the newly re-independent Estonia until 2008.

"Money of the Republic of Estonia" is the third part of the catalog "Banknotes and Coins of the Republic of Estonia". It concludes the history of Estonia's money until the end of 2010, covering all banknotes and coins issued in Estonia before the adoption of the euro.

Printed copies of the catalog can be ordered from the bank, and it is also available as a free PDF by clicking the links above.

Ukraine to issue new signature varieties starting in June 2011

Persuant to the National Bank of Ukraine resolution No.55 dated 4 March 2011, NBU will issue banknotes with the signature of Serhii Arbuzov, the bank's new governor appointed 19 January 2011, following this schedule:

  • 50-hryvnia (US$6.30) note will be issued 1 June 2011.
  • 10-hryvnia (US$1.25) note will be issued 1 July 2011.
  • 1-hryvnia (US$0.15) note will be issued 1 September 2011.
  • 5-hryvnia (US$0.60) note will be issued 1 October 2011.
  • 200-hryvnia (US$25.20) note will be issued 1 October 2011.
  • 500-hryvnia (US$63) note will be issued 1 December 2011.
  • 100-hryvnia (US$12.60) note will be issued 1 March 2012.

Hungary new sig/date (2010) 500-forint note (B581c) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_500_forint_2010.00.00_B581c_P196b_EA_8575690_fHungary_MNB_500_forint_2010.00.00_B581c_P196b_EA_8575690_r
Like B581b, but new signatures and date (2010).

Courtesy of Mikhail "Mike" Prizov.

Libyan leader prevented from getting notes from DLR in UK

There’s an interesting article on MailOnline about Britain’s successful ploys to prevent Gaddafi from taking possession of new Libyan banknotes worth 1.8 billion dinars. Although it is unnamed in the article, the printer of these notes is De La Rue.

Sweden new sig/date (2009) 500-kronor confirmed


500 kronor (US$77.80), (200)9. Like P65, but new date and new signatures (Johan Gernandt and Stefan Ingves).

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Austrian specialized catalog reviewed

Be sure to check out the Books page of this site for my new review of “Katalog der österreichischen Banknoten ab 1759 (Austrian Papermoney after 1759)” by Johann Kodnar and Norbert Künstner.

Denmark new sig/date (2008) 500-krone note confirmed

500-krone (US$91.65), (20)08. Like P63, but new date and signature pairs:

Torben Nielsen, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services
Nils Bernstein, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services

Courtesy of Jan Stuller.

Ukraine is planning 200- and 1,000-hryvnia notes

According to a Ukrainske Radio report dated 28 January 2011, the National Bank of Ukraine is contemplating issuing a 1,000-hryvnia (US$126) note, which would double the largest denomination in the country. The bank is also scheduled to issue a new 200-hryvnia (US$25.15) note in the fourth quarter of 2011. The new 200-hryvnia note will have improved security features, but no significant design changes.

Sweden new sig/date (2008) 50-kronor note confirmed


50 kronor (US$7.70), (20)08. Like P67, but new date and signatures (Johan Gernandt and Stefan Ingves).

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Sweden new sig/date (2009) 100-kronor note confirmed


100 kronor (US$15.40), 20)09. Like P64, but new date and signatures (Johan Gernandt and Stefan Ingves).

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Belarus new 20,000-ruble commemorative confirmed


According to a press release dated 18 November 2010, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus commemorated its 20th anniversary by issuing a 20,000-ruble (US$6.60) note on 1 December. Only 3,000 notes will be issued in special booklets. The commemorative is based upon the note of the same denomination issued in 2000 (Pick 31), but with a hologram over the watermark reading "NB 1920 1991-2011."

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Norway new date (2008) 500-krone note confirmed


500 kroner (US$84.50), 2008. Like P51, but new date.

Courtesy of Håkon Hagelund.

Estonia adopts euro on 01.01.2011


Like the barn swallow on the back of one of my favorite Estonian banknotes shown above, the kroon will fly away on 1 January 2011 as Estonia joins 16 other countries which have traded their own individual currencies for the common euro. Kroon, we’ll miss you!

Serbia new 5,000-dinar note confirmed


According to a press release, on 26 November 2010 the National Bank of Serbia issued a new 5,000-dinar (US$61.10) banknote that will circulate in parallel with the same denomination note issued in 2003 (P45). The new note retains the overall design of the old note with the following changes:

on the front of the banknote

1. the position and the form of the kip effect and OVI elements are changed;

on the back of the banknote

1. the year of issue (2010) and governor’s signature are changed;
2. the logo of the National Bank of Serbia is replaced with the Great Coat-of-Arms of the Republic of Serbia;
3. the year of issue and governor’s signature are no longer below the logo of the National Bank of Serbia, but in the right part of the white area;
4. lettering (handwriting of S. Jovanović) in intaglio print is added in the central part of the banknote;
5. the serial number is placed between the Great Coat-of-Arms of the Republic of Serbia and the value numeral, instead to the right of the value numeral;
6. Cyrillic lettering “Narodna banka Srbije – Zavod za izradu novčanica i kovanog novca Topčider“ (National Bank of Serbia – Institute for Manufacturing Banknotes and Coins Topčider) is now placed above the upper edge of the fully printed area instead of directly above its lower edge.

Courtesy of Matej Omahen.

Denmark to issue new 500-krone note on 15.02.2011


According to Danmarks Nationalbank, the new 500-krone (US$90) banknote will be issued 15 February 2011. The note measures 155 x 72 mm, and the front depicts Dronning Alexandrines Bro and the back features a bronze pail from Keldby.

Dronning Alexandrines Bro
The bridge Dronning Alexandrines Bro, also called the Møn Bridge, was opened in 1943. The bridge across Ulvsund connects Kalvehave on South Zealand with the island of Møn. Dronning Alexandrines Bro is 746 metres long and has a maximum vertical clearance of 26 metres.

The bronze pail
The bronze pail from Keldby on the island of Møn was unearthed by a plough near Trehøje in the period before 1826. It was probably made in the 4th or early 3rd century BC. Other pails closely resembling this pail have been found in the Thracian area of the Black Sea in Southern Ukraine. Judging by the clearly Greek inspired ornamentation and shape, the pail could have been made in Macedonia or the Greek Black Sea colonies.

Additional information and images are requested.

Macedonia new sig/date (00.01.2009) 100-denar note (B208j) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_100_denari_2009.01.00_B208j_P16a_MX_866607_fMacedonia_NBRM_100_denari_2009.01.00_B208j_P16a_MX_866607_r
Like B208i, but new date (ЈАНУАРИ 2009) and new signature (Petar Goshev).

Courtesy of Matej Omahen.

Denmark new 200-krone note confirmed



Signature (Nils Bernstein, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services).

UPDATE:
New signature variety confirmed as follows.

Signature (Torben Nielsen, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services).

Danmarks Nationalbank has issued the following press release:

19 October 2010 a new 200-krone [US$37.25] banknote will be issued. The new series makes it even more difficult to counterfeit or copy genuine banknotes. The banknotes have been designed by the artist Karin Birgitte Lund and have Danish bridges and prehistoric finds as their motifs. All Danish banknotes issued since the substitution of money in 1945 can be exchanged at face value at Danmarks Nationalbank.

Why issue new banknotes?
Technological advances mean that counterfeiters constantly gain access to improved tools for copying genuine banknotes. To remain one step ahead, Danmarks Nationalbank in 2006 initiated the process of designing a new banknote series with new security features, a replacement for the current series from 1997.

Among the new security features is a window thread with a moving wave pattern [Crane’s Motion thread]. Another feature is a new, sophisticated hologram that reflects light in different colours. The new banknotes will also have the traditional security features such as the watermark and the hidden security thread.

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

When will the new banknotes be issued?
The expected schedule for introducing the remaining new banknotes is as follows:

• 500 kroner: February 2011 – depicting Queen Alexandrine's Bridge and the bronze vessel from Keldby

• 1,000 kroner: May 2011 – depicting the Great Belt Bridge and the Sun Chariot

What is being done for the visually impaired?
In the interests of the blind and partially sighted, the 100- and 200-krone banknotes will have embossed print to make it easier to distinguish them from each other. Like the current series, the banknotes will differ in size, which is also helpful to the blind and partially sighted.

Courtesy of Ricardo Castedo and Alberto Fochi.

Sweden new sig/date (2007) 20-krona note confirmed


20 kronor (US$3), (200)7. Like P63, but new date and new signature combination.

Courtesy of Sejin Ahn.

Belarus language changes create errors on old notes


According to an article on the Belarus Partisan dated 05.11.2010, on 1 September 2010, new rules of Belarusian orthography came into force. According to the old rules, the correct spelling of the word “fifty” in Belarusian was “пяцьдзЕсят,” but under the new rules, it should be spelled “пяцьдзЯсят,” the difference being that the seventh character was the Cyrillic letter IE but is now the Cyrillic letter YA. As a result of these new rules, the existing 50- and 50,000-ruble notes (Pick 25 and Pick 32, respectively) dated 2000 now technically contain errors where the denominations are spelled out on the backs of the notes. Belarus National Bank intends to correct these spelling errors when it issues new versions of these denominations, but there is no word yet on when that may be.

Courtesy of Vitali Khaletski.

Romania new date (2009) 200-leu note (B284c) confirmed


200 lei (US$65), (20)09. Like P122, but new date. Last two digits of year of issue as first two digits of serial number. Signature remains the same.

Courtesy of Ricardo Castedo.

Czech Republic to replace 50-koruna note with coin 01.04.2011


According to a Czech National Bank press release dated 8 October 2010:

As from 1 April 2011 it will not be possible to pay for goods and services with the CZK 50 [US$2.85] banknote. The Bank Board of the Czech National Bank has decided to terminate the CZK 50 banknote [Pick 17]. The note will be fully replaced in circulation by the currently used coin of the same denomination.
From 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012, the invalid banknotes – which have a portrait of St. Agnes of Bohemia on the face side – will be exchangeable at bank branches and at branches of the Czech National Bank. From 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2017, the CZK 50 banknotes will be exchanged only by the Czech National Bank (at all its seven branches: Prague, Plzeň, Hradec Králové, Brno, Ostrava, České Budějovice and Ústí nad Labem).
The Czech National Bank has been gradually replacing the CZK 50 banknotes with coins since 2006. The number of such notes in circulation fell from 40 million at the end of 2005 to 25 million at the end of 2009, while the number of CZK 50 coins in circulation increased more than nine-fold in the same period (from 5 million to 47 million).
“The Bank Board’s main motivation in deciding to terminate the CZK 50 banknote was the lower costs of ensuring smooth currency circulation. Coins have a much longer useful life than banknotes, so they reduce the central bank’s direct expenditure on issuing money,” said CNB Bank Board member Pavel Řežábek.
The 50-crown note became part of the circulating currency as a Treasury note in 1919, shortly after the establishment of the independent Czechoslovakia. As a banknote it has been circulating in various versions since 1929 to the present. The longest period in circulation was recorded for the 50-crown note issued in 1965, which was valid until 1991. It depicted a Red Army soldier and a partisan and was designed by Václav Fiala. Treasury notes from the First Republic, especially those issued in 1919 and 1922, are most prized by collectors.
The 1994 and 1997 versions of the CZK 50 banknote are currently in circulation. The previous version (1993), which ceased to be valid in 2007, can currently be exchanged at the CNB. It will be exchangeable until 31 March 2017 only at CNB branches.”

Courtesy of Tristan Williams.

Moldova new sig/date (2010) 1- and 20-leu notes confirmed


On 27 September 2010, the Banca Naţională a Moldovei (National Bank of Moldova) began issuing 1-leu and 20-leu (US$0.10 and US$1.65, respectively) that are like the preceding issues (Pick 8 and 13, respectively), but are dated 2010 and bear the signature of Dorin Drăguţanu, the new governor who replaced the previous governor, Leonid Talmaci, on 6 November 2009.

Courtesy of Alex Klark, Vadim Tislenko, and Thomas Augustsson.

European Monetary Union to introduce 2nd-generation euro notes as early as 2013

According to an article in Wiener Zeitung, the second generation of euro notes is slated for introduction in 2013 or 2014. The new notes will be designed by the same Austrian designer, Robert Kalina, and retain their basic color schemes, but security will be enhanced.

Courtesy of Ricardo Castedo.

Macedonia new sig/date (00.01.2009) 1,000-denar note (B214b) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_1000_denari_2009.01.00_B214b_P22a_БA_4987422_fMacedonia_NBRM_1000_denari_2009.01.00_B214b_P22a_БA_4987422_r
Like B214a, but new date (ЈАНУАРИ 2009) and new signature (Petar Goshev).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Northern Ireland's Northern Bank new date (06.11.2006) 20-pound note confirmed


20 pounds (US$30.70), 6 NOVEMBER 2006. Like P206, but new date.

Courtesy of Nazir Rahemtulla.

Hungary new date (2010) 1,000-, 2,000-, and 5,000-forint notes confirmed


1,000 forint (US$4.50), 2010. Like B582a, but new date, new signatures, and Omron rings.

2,000 forint (US$9.05), 2010. Like B583b, but new date, new signatures (as above), and Omron rings.

5,000 forint (US$22.60), 2010. Like B584a, but new date, new signatures (as above), and Omron rings.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer and Szilard Szemere.

Northern Ireland's Northern Bank new 10-pound note confirmed


On 29 March 2010, Northern Bank in Belfast introduced a new 10-pound (US$15.10) note that is like P205, but new date, new signature (Gerry Mallon, Chief Executive), new gold foil, Cornerstone watermarks, and slightly redesigned front and back to accommodate the new bank logo.

Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen.

Norway new date (2009) 200-krone note confirmed

200 kroner (US$32.35), 2009. Like Pick 50, but new date. This is the first 200-kroner note printed outside of Norway, either by De La Rue or Oberthur. Nothing has changed except that there is now a letter prefix before the serial number.

Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen.

Macedonia new sig/date (00.01.2009) 500-denar note (B213b) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_500_denari_2009.01.00_B213b_P21a_BA_3920808_fMacedonia_NBRM_500_denari_2009.01.00_B213b_P21a_BA_3920808_r
Like B213a, but new date (ЈАНУАРИ 2009) and new signature (Petar Goshev).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Switzerland new date (2007) 100-franc note confirmed


100 francs (US$95). (20)07. Like P72, but new date and new signatures (77).

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Norway scans needed for catalog

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

I am looking for 300-dpi images of the following banknotes of Norway:

P1
P2
P3
P5
P6
P11
P12
P21
P22
P23
P24
P29

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

Thanks in advance for everyone's cooperation!

Latvia new date (2009) 5-lat note confirmed


5 lat (US$9.15), 2009. Like P52, but new date.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Estonia to adopt euro in 2011

According to a Bloomberg article dated 8 June 2010, European finance ministers backed Estonia’s bid to become the 17th country using the euro starting 1 January 2011. Time to start looking for kroon notes to fill the holes in your collections!

Courtesy of Stein Langørgen.


Gibraltar scans needed for catalog

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

I am looking for 300-dpi images of the following banknotes of Gibraltar:

Pick 1-5, 7-11 all date varieties
P16 dated 1st June 1942 and 1st December 1949
P17 dated 3rd October 1958 with W&S imprint
P19 dated 3rd October 1958 with TDLR imprint
P19 dated 1st May 1965 with Title: Financial and Development Secretary
specimens

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

Thanks in advance for everyone's cooperation!

Norway new date (2008) 50-krone note confirmed


50 kroner (US$7.75), 2008. Like P46, but new date.

Courtesy of Håkon Hagelund.

Denmark new date (2008) 100-kroner note confirmed


100 kroner (US$16.90), (20)08. Like Pick 61, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of Kai Hwong.

Jersey new note family confirmed


B28 (PNL): 1 pound (US$1.70)
Green. Front: Monument to Freedom in Liberation Square, Saint Helier; QE II. Back: La Hougue Bie Neolithic burial mound; Le Hocq in Saint Clement. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Jersey cow head, electrotype 1, and Cornerstones. Printer: DE LA RUE. 130 x 65 mm. No date. Signature 6. Intro: 29.04.2010.



B29 (PNL): 5 pounds (US$8.40)
Blue. Front: 16th century National Trust property, Le Rât Cottage, in Saint Lawrence; QE II. Back: Les Augrès Manor, home of the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust; Archirondel Tower. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Jersey cow head, electrotype 5, and Cornerstones. Printer: DE LA RUE. 135 x 70 mm. No date. Signature 6. Intro: 29.04.2010.


B30 (PNL): 10 pounds (US$16.80)
Burnt sienna. Front: Hologram; Hermitage of Elizabeth Castle in Saint Aubin’s Bay; QE II. Back: Rene Lalique’s glass sculptures in Saint Matthew’s Church of Saint Lawrence; Seymour Tower in Grouville Bay. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Jersey cow head, electrotype 10, and Cornerstones. Printer: DE LA RUE. 145 x 75 mm. No date. Signature 6. Intro: 29.04.2010.


B31 (PNL): 20 pounds (US$33.55)
Violet. Front: Hologram; exterior view of The States (parliament building); QE II. Back: Interior view of The States chamber; La Rocco Tower (originally known as Gordon’s Tower) in Saint Jean. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Jersey cow head, electrotype 20, and Cornerstones. Printer: DE LA RUE. 150 x 80 mm. No date. Signature 6. Intro: 29.04.2010.


B32 (PNL): 50 pounds (US$83.90)
Cherry red. Front: Hologram; Mont Orgueil Castle; QE II. Back: Houses on the island of La Marmotière in Les Écréhous; Ouaisné Tower. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Jersey cow head, electrotype 50, and Cornerstones. Printer: DE LA RUE. 155 x 85 mm. No date. Signature 6. Intro: 29.04.2010.

All of these notes have also been confirmed as specimens with diagonal red SPECIMEN overprints.

Courtesy of Dieter Eheim.

Hungary new 2,000-forint note (B583) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_2000_forint_2007.00.00_B583a_P198a_CB_2265965_fHungary_MNB_2000_forint_2007.00.00_B583a_P198a_CB_2265965_r
Like B574, but new date, new signatures, and Omron rings.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Iceland new signature 1,000-króna notes (B811n, B811p) confirmed

Iceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B811n_PNL_E_20370046_fIceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B811n_PNL_E_20370046_r
Like B811m, but new date and new signatures.

Iceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B811p_PNL_E_21079385_fIceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B811p_PNL_E_21079385_r
Like B811p, but new date and new signatures.

Courtesy of Werner Kober.



Denmark new 100-krone note confirmed


According to Danmarks Nationalbank, the 100-krone (US$17.70) note issued on 4 May 2010 depicts The Old Little Belt Bridge on front and The Hindsgavl Dagger on back. This signature pair is of Torben Nielsen, Governor and Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services.

The following signature combo has also been confirmed for Nils Bernstein, Governor; and Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services:


The Old Little Belt Bridge
The Old Little Belt Bridge, linking Erritsø in Jutland to Middelfart on Funen, was opened in 1935. The bridge was originally planned as a railway bridge in 1924, but the decision was later made to include roadways. The bridge is 1,178 metres long and has a maximum vertical clearance of 33 metres.

The Hindsgavl Dagger
The finest example of a flint-knapped dagger is the 29.5 cm long flint dagger that was found in about 1867 on the island of Fænø in the Little Belt opposite the Hindsgavl peninsula. This type of dagger is called the 'fish-tail design' due to the shape of the handle. The Stone Age dagger is from the latter part of the Dagger Period, 1900-1700 BC, and resembles metal daggers that have handles topped with an oval disk. The exquisite flint knapping shows the lengths to which the flint knappers went to compete with the increasingly popular metal goods that ultimately put the craft of flint knapping out of business.

View an informative video.

Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares and Bill Stubkjaer.

Switzerland new date (2006) 50-franc note confirmed


50 francs (US$45.10), (20)06. Like P71, but new date and signature 76 (Raggenbass and Blattner).

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Norway 1995 test note confirmed


On 13 November 1995, Norges Bank printing works invited all the company’s families to a big Family Day and all the participants got this note as a gift, but it was soon withdrawn and destroyed because it was too similar to a real note. Everybody was asked to return them, but of course, some didn’t. Many notes were destroyed, and only a few survived. This is one of them. The watermark is NBS (same as NBS on the top right corner on the back) and it has a lot of other security details. Examine the pictures.

Courtesy of Håkon Hagelund.

Jersey issues new note family



The following is from a 29 April 2010 press release issued by the States of Jersey:

Jersey’s new bank notes are being issued today (29 April 2010) by local banks and States cashiers. The Island’s first new designs for more than 20 years were officially launched in February. They have been tested in banks’ cash machines and commercial vending machines and are now ready to be introduced into circulation.

The new notes will be issued to banks, as they are needed, initially for a period of up to 8 weeks. At the end of that time there will be more than £20 million of the new notes in circulation, in place of existing notes. The existing Jersey bank notes are still legal tender and will remain in circulation until each note reaches the end of its useful life and is withdrawn in the usual way.

States cashiers will begin to issue Collectors’ Notes from today at Cyril Le Marquand House.

The designs incorporate new security features and the back of each note carries the words États de Jersey as well as each of the 12 parish crests. Other important changes include the use of French and Jèrriais and a new image of the Queen.

The Treasury Minister, Senator Philip Ozouf said, "I have received very many positive comments from islanders since the launch of the new notes in February. They are designed to reflect the Island’s history and culture and I was especially pleased that, for the first time, the value of each note is written in Jèrriais as well as in French.

“I hope this will contribute to the ongoing efforts to regenerate the Jersey-French language. I would like to see all States members counting up to 50 in Jèrriais!”

The Jèrriais Language Officer, Tony Scott Warren, is pleased that Jersey’s traditional language is getting a boost. He said “Lé louis dans vot' paûte est achteu pus vâliabl'ye viyant qu' la valeu d'la langue jèrriaise y'a 'té ajouôté.” (The pound in your pocket is now worth more because the value of the Jersey language has been added to it!)

Senator Ozouf added "We must also remember that when we issue Jersey notes, banks pay the States for that cash, those payments are invested and generate interest for the Island. So when we use our notes, we are helping to pay for essential services, like Health and Education.”

Display towers with more information about the new notes and their design are currently on display at the airport, Cyril Le Marquand House and the Co-op (Grand Marché, St Helier). In the coming months they will also be on view at Fort Regent, banks, retail outlets and schools.

The issuing of a £100 note will be considered next year.

Courtesy of Zeeshan Ali.

Iceland new signature 50-króna note (B808c) confirmed

Iceland_SI_50_krónur_1961.03.29_B808c_P49a_B_02925651_fIceland_SI_50_krónur_1961.03.29_B808c_P49a_B_02925651_r
Like B808b, but new signatures of Guðmundur Hjartarson and Davíð Ólafsson (this pair’s signatures are assigned #42 in SCWPM, but these new ones are different enough to warrant a new variety, in my opinion).

Courtesy of George Provencal and Werner Kober.

Iceland new signature 1,000-króna note (B815c) confirmed

Iceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B815c_P59_E_35341181_fIceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B815c_P59_E_35341181_r
Like B815b, but new signatures (David Oddson and Eirikur Gudnason).

Courtesy of George Provencal and Stefan.

Iceland new sig/date (22.05.2001) 500-króna note (B810q) confirmed

Iceland_SI_500_krónur_2001.05.22_B810q_PNL_D_16688523_fIceland_SI_500_krónur_2001.05.22_B810q_PNL_D_16688523_r
Like B810p, but new date (22.MAI 2001) and new signatures (Birgir Isleifur Gunnarsson and Eirikur Gudnason).

Courtesy of Werner Kober and Stefan.

Iceland new signature 1,000-króna note (B811o) confirmed

Iceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B811o_PNL_E_19529717_fIceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B811o_PNL_E_19529717_r
Like B811n, but new signatures (Eirikur Gudnason and Finnur Ingolfsson).

Courtesy of Werner Kober and Stefan.

Latvia new date (2009) 5- and 20-lat notes confirmed





The Bank of Latvia has issued new 5- and 20-lat notes dated 2009. The 5-lat (US$10.10) note is like Pick 52, but new date. The 20-lat (US$40.35) note is like Pick 51, but new date. Both carry the same signature (Ilmars Rimsevics, Governor).

Courtesy of Nazir Rahemtulla and Jean-Michel Engels.

Iceland new signature 1,000-króna notes (B815a, B815d) confirmed

Iceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B815a_P59_E_24691594_fIceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B815a_P59_E_24691594_r

Iceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B815d_P59_E_39267380_fIceland_SI_1000_krónur_2001.05.22_B815d_P59_E_39267380_r
1,000 krónur (US$7.75), 22.MAÍ 2001. Like P60, but new signatures. Top scan is of note with single signature of Svein Harald Øygard. Bottom scan has two signatures: Birgir Isleifur Gunnarsson and Jón Sigurðsson.

Courtesy of Bill Stubkjaer.

Denmark three 50-krone signature varieties confirmed


50-kroner (US$9.50), (20)09. Like the note introduced 11.08.2009, but new signature combination (Jens Thomsen, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services).


50-kroner (US$9.50), (20)09. Like the note introduced 11.08.2009, but new signature combination (Nils Bernstein, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services).


50-kroner (US$9.50), (20)09. Like the note introduced 11.08.2009, but new signature combination (Torben Nielsen, Governor; Lars Gerrild Sørensen, Head of Banking Services).

Courtesy of Krassimir Dimitrov, Paul D. Walters, and Bryce W. Denham.

Sweden's Riksbank supports keeping 20-kronor note and adding 200-kronor note

In a notice dated 17 March 2010, the General Council of the Riksbank (Sweden’s central bank) decided “to support the Executive Board’s proposal to supplement the present banknote and coin series with a 2-kronor coin and a 200-kronor banknote, and to renew the Swedish banknote and coin series. However, they did not consider that the 20-kronor note should be replaced with a coin. The final decision on denominations will be made by the Riksdag (the Swedish parliament) after a proposal from the Executive Board of the Riksbank. The Executive Board is expected to decide on a proposal during the spring.”

Courtesy of Zeeshan.

Moldova notes with new signature due in 2010



In 2010, the signature of the new governor, Dorin Dragutanu, will appear on banknotes issued by the National Bank of Moldova.

Courtesy of Alex Klark.

Bank of England to withdraw 20-pound note on 30 June 2010


According to a Bank of England press release dated 8 March 2010, the 20-pound (US$30.10) note with the portrait of composer Sir Edward Elgar on back will cease to be legal tender after 30 June 2010. “This note has been gradually replaced by the Adam Smith £20 which was introduced in 2007. Announcing this today, the Bank of England assured holders of the Elgar £20 banknote that they could certainly use the notes up to, and including, 30 June. After that date the note will no longer have ‘legal tender’ status. The note will not have to be accepted in payment, or in change, in retail outlets after this date.”

“For several months from the end of June banks, building societies and Post Offices will accept Elgar £20 notes for deposit to customer accounts and for other customer transactions. Agreeing to exchange the notes for non-customers is at the discretion of the individual institution. The Bank of England will always give value for these notes (and all other banknotes the Bank has issued).”

“Andrew Bailey, the Bank of England’s Chief Cashier, said, ‘The Elgar £20 banknotes were first introduced in 1999 and we introduced the Adam Smith £20 banknotes three years ago. We said at the time that the two designs would circulate in tandem, with the Elgar notes gradually being withdrawn over the next few years. It is time now to withdraw the Elgar £20 notes completely, with the Adam Smith £20 banknotes to be the only £20 note design continuing in circulation.’”

Courtesy of Aidan Work.

Bosnia and Herzegovina removing 5-convertible marka note from circulation


The Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina (CBBH) is reminding citizens in possession of 5-convertible marka (US$3.50) notes that they have until 31 March 2010 to exchange them at commercial banks. The note ceased to be legal tender on 31 December 2009 and as such are no longer accepted in circulation for settlement of any type of liabilities. A coin of the same denomination remains in circulation.

Bosnia and Herzegovina new date (2009) 50-convertible marka note confirmed


On 14 December 2009, the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina (CBBH) introduced a 50-convertible marka (US$36.60) note like Pick 72, but dated 2009 and a new signature (Kemal Kozanic).

Courtesy of Kovács Sándor and Jean-Michel Engels.


Poland new 20-złoty commemorative confirmed


The National Bank of Poland honored the 200th birthday of musician Frédéric François Chopin with a new commemorative 20-złoty (US$7.10) banknote.

On the front center of the banknote measuring 138 x 69 mm is a portrait of Frederic Chopin seen in profile. At left is the mansion in Zelazowa Wola where the composer was born, and at right is a reproduction of Mazurka in B minor, Op. 7 together with the signature of the artist. On the back is a landscape with characteristic Masovian willows and Chopin’s etude in F minor, Op. 10.

This is the fourth commemorative note issued by the NBP, all of which are sold exclusively for the collector market and are not intended for circulation. This latest commemorative went on sale 26 February 2010 at a price of 50 zloty (US$17.20) each.

Courtesy of Rafal Nogowczyk.

Sweden considering changes to its currency

According to the minutes of a recent Sveriges Riksbank meeting dated 1 February 2010, the bank is working on a design of a new banknote and coin series. The bank also asked parliament to allow it to issue a 2-krona coin, replace the 20-krona note with a coin, and issue a 200-krona (US$27.85) note, a new denomination for the country. The timetable for the introduction of the new currency hasn’t been set, but a proposal has a new 50-krona note to be issued in 2013 with the other denominations issued 2014-2015.

Courtesy of Martin Rydberg.

Switzerland postpones new notes until 2012

According to a press release dated 17 February 2010, the Swiss National Bank has decided to postpone the issuance of its new banknote series:

“Intensive efforts are underway at the Swiss National Bank (SNB) on the preparatory work for its new banknote series. The project activities have revealed that additional development work will bring improvements as regards those technological security features which are being used for the first time. However, this will take time, and as a result the project will need to be rescheduled.

“The SNB still intends to replace existing banknotes with a new series. Given the high security standard of the banknote series currently in circulation, however, there is no urgent need for replacement. To allow time for the additional development processes, the SNB is postponing the issue date of the new banknote series, which had originally been scheduled for autumn 2010. The SNB expects that the first note of the new series can be issued in 2012.

“As mentioned in previous announcements, the new banknote series depicts Switzerland as a meeting place and platform for organisation, creativity, adventure, humanity, progress and dialogue. The current denominations of CHF 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 1,000 and the familiar colours of the individual denominations will remain unchanged, although the new notes will be slightly smaller than the current series. As well as improving their overall proportions, this will ensure that they are even better able to meet current and future demands on payment instruments.”

Courtesy of David Liu and Christof Zellweger.

Norwegian 50-krone notes printed abroad put into circulation

According to a press release dated 10 February 2010, “Since discontinuing operations at Norges Bank’s Printing Works in the summer of 2007, Norwegian banknotes have been produced by De La Rue International Limited in the UK and Oberthur Technologies in France. The first 50-krone (US$8.45) notes printed abroad will soon be put into circulation. The notes are virtually identical to current 50-krone notes, informed Trond Eklund, director of the Cashier’s Department. The only difference is that the serial number on the new notes has a letter before the number. This change will also apply to other note denominations as those are put into circulation. The next denomination printed abroad will be the 500-krone (US$84.50) note, which is scheduled to be put into circulation at the end of 2010.”

Courtesy of Håkon Hagelund.

Romania new 10-leu note (B281a) confirmed


2005-dated note (B280)


2008-dated note (B281)

This note was originally reported as a new date variety only, but it has recently been determined that there are sufficient changes to this note to qualify it as a new type.

10 lei (US$3.50), 1 decembrie 2008. Like B280, but new date, paint brushes replace 10 on see-through window, new colors for various text elements and bank logo, and two-tone numerals 10 now monochrome. Polymer.

Courtesy of Thomas Krause and Andrew Quirke.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 100-pound note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Colin Meikle.

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

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

Czech Republic new 5,000-korun note confirmed


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

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

Courtesy of Kevin Klauss and Evzen Sknouril.

Isle of Man new signature 1-pound note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Pam West.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 10-pound note introduced


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

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

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

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



Courtesy of Rui Manuel Palhares.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 50-pound note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Ricardo Castedo.

Scotland new 5- and 10-pound notes confirmed


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


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

Moldova new date (2009) notes confirmed


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


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


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

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 20-pound note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Alessio Amato.

Poland new 20-zloty commemorative confirmed

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

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

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

This is the third commemorative banknote from Poland.


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

Courtesy of Leszek Porowski and Krzysztof Czupryński.

Trans-Dniester commemorative 10-ruble note confirmed


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

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

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

Hungary to replace 200-forint note with coin on 15.11.2009

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

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


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


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

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Denmark new 50-kroner note confirmed

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

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

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



Courtesy of Alessio Amato and Paul D. Walters.


Scotland green 1968 1-pound note reported

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





Courtesy of Kevin Forbes.

Albania issues revised 200-lek note



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

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

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


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

Courtesy of Kai Hwong.

Albania issues revised 5,000-lek note



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

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger and Michael Reissner.

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

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

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Guernsey new signature 20-pound note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Pam West.

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

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

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

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

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

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

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Bank of England to issue new £50 note in 2011

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

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

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

Bulgaria issues revised 5-lev note

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


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

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

Scotland may commemorate Commonwealth Games with note

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

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


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

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Hungary issues notes revised with Omron rings



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

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



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

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Czech Republic issues revised 500-korun note


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

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

Courtesy of Marian Klubert and Christof Zellweger.

Switzerland new date (2006) 200-franc note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Switzerland new date (2005) 20-franc note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Switzerland new date (2006) 10-franc note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

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


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

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Bank of England refutes report of new notes depicting religious leaders

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

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

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

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

Albania issues revised 500-lek note dated 2007

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

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


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

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

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


Like B206g, but new date (ЈАНУАРИ 2008).

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Bosnia and Herzegovina new date (2008) KM notes confirmed


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

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

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Isle of Man new signature 20-pound note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Switzerland new date (2004) 100-franc note confirmed


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

Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.

Moldova corrected 50- and 100-lei notes confirmed


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


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

Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko.

Latvia issues revised 500-lat note dated 2008

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



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



Courtesy of Cleophas Elmakias Schockemohle and Frank van Tiel.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank unveils new notes

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

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


£5: Scientist Sir Alexander Fleming and St. Kilda


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


£20: King Robert the Bruce and New Lanark


£50: Suffragette Elsie Inglis and The Antonine Wall


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

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

Sweden new date (2007) 500-kronor confirmed


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

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

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

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



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



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

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

Slovakia adopts the euro as of 2009

As of 1 January 2009, Slovakia is adopting the euro. While I am sad to see another country abandon its unique notes, I must remember that it was the impending introduction of the euro that first sparked my interest in the hobby of collecting banknotes. Perhaps Slovakia’s move will create a whole new generation of collectors. In recognition of this historic event, I’m pleased to present the following images of the banknotes of National Bank of Slovakia.




Turkey issues new notes on 01.01.2009

The name of Turkey’s currency has reverted from “new Turkish lira” (TRY) to “Turkish lira” (TRL) as of 1 January 2009, necessitating the issuance of new banknotes and coins. Turkey last changed the currency by removing six zeroes on 1 January 2005, at a cost of US$300 million. This new move is expected to incur similar costs. Durmuş Yılmaz, governor of the Turkish Central Bank, indicated that a new denomination, the TRL200, would begin circulation as well. The new notes have different sizes as a measure against forgery and to facilitate their use by blind people. The depiction of the country’s founder, Kemal Atatürk, stays on the front of all banknotes; the new designs were unveiled 3 October 2008.

All of the notes have dots in the upper left to assist the visually impaired, microtext, a solid security thread, a holographic stripe, registration device, Omron rings, a latent image, Atatürk as watermark with electrotype denomination, and an iridescent stripe on back. The notes are printed by the Central Bank Banknote Printing House in Ankara.

While each banknote has a portrait of Ataturk, the founder of the modern Republic of Turkey, on one side, there are portraits of other prominent Turks on the other sides of the banknotes as listed below:

5 TL banknote: Prof. Dr. Aydin Sayili
10 TL banknote: Prof. Dr. Cahit Arf
20 TL banknote: Architect Kemaleddin
50 TL banknote: Ms. Fatma Aliye
100 TL banknote: Itri
200 TL banknote: Yunus Emre

Aydin Sayili (1913-1993) was a historian of science who studied under George Sarton at Harvard. His career was aided by chance meeting with Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, whom he impressed enough to receive a state-supported scholarship to attend graduate school at Harvard.

Cahit Arf (1910-1997) was a Turkish mathematician. He is known for the Arf invariant of a quadratic form in characteristic 2 (applied in knot theory and surgery theory) in topology, the Hasse-Arf theorem in ramification theory, and Arf rings.

Architect Kemaleddin (1870-1927) was a prominent Turkish architect. He is a graudate of civil engineering and studied extensively in Germany. He repaired many mosques. He was chosen as a member to the British Royal Architects Institute. He constructed the Bostanci, Bebek, Yesilkoy and Kutlutepe mosques.

Ms. Fatma Aliye (1862-1939) was the first female novelist in Turkish literature and Islamic geography. She was the daughter of last grand Ottoman histrorian Ahmad Cavdat Pasha.

Itri (1630 or 1640-1712) is a well known and important Turkish composer.

Yunus Emre (1238?-1320?) was a Turkish poet and Sufi mystic. He has exercised immense influence on Turkish literature, from his own day until the present.








Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Bulgaria to issue new date (2008) 10-lev note


On 8 December 2008, the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) issued a revised 10-lev (US$6.50) note similar to the existing 1999 note (Pick 117), but with new date, signatures, and security features, including a red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized text, watermark with electrotype bank initials, latent image, and UV elements.

Courtesy of Krassimir Dimitrov.

Hungary new sig/date (2008) 500-forint note (B581b) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_500_forint_2008.00.00_B581b_P196a_EA_8952111_fHungary_MNB_500_forint_2008.00.00_B581b_P196a_EA_8952111_r
Like B581a, but new date (2008) and new signatures (Dr. Karvalits Ferenc; Simor András; Dr. Király Júlia).

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Poland issues commemorative 10-zloty note

On 3 November 2008, the National Bank of Poland introduced a new 10-zloty note to commemorate the 90th anniversary of regaining independence. 80,000 notes were packaged in a folder and sold for PLN15. The note was engraved by Maciej Kopecki.


10 zloty (US$3.35)
Pink and orange. Front: Coat of arms; Belweder Palace; Commander Józef Piłsudski. Back: White eagle; Monument of the Heroic Deed of Polish Legions in Kielce. Solid security thread with microprinted 10 Zł. Watermark: Piłsudski and electrotype denomination. Printer: PWPW S.A. (Polska Wytwórnia Papierów Wartosciowych SA). 138 x 69 mm. 4 CZERWCA 2008 (04.06.2008). Signatures: Sławomir Skrzypek, PREZES (President); Monika Nowosielska, GŁÓWNY SKARBNIK (Main Cashier). Introduced 03.11.2008.

Courtesy of Krzysztof Czupryński, Rafal Nogowczyk, and Leszek Porowski.

Ireland's First Trust Bank new date (01.05.2007) £20 note confirmed


20 pounds (US$39.25), 1st MAY 2007. Like P137, but new date and new signature.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Estonia issues new date (2007) 25-kroon note


25 krooni (US$2.50), 2007. Introduced 26.06.2008. Like P84, but new date, new signatures (Andres Lipstok, President; Mart Sõrg, Nõukogu esimees), and rectangle with denomination in UV ink moved from lower center on back to lower center right on back. Printer: (Gieseke & Devrient). 140 x 69 mm.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net and Frank van Tiel.

Latvia issues revised 10-lat note dated 2008



10 lats (US$19.40)
Violet. Front: River Daugava; oak-leaf. Back: Traditional Latvian bronze bow-broach; coat of arms. Windowed security thread. Watermark: Folk-maid wearing a traditional head-dress. Printer: Giesecke & Devrient (w/o imprint). 130 x 65 mm. 2008. Signature: Ilmars Rimsevics, Governor. Introduced 01.10.2008.

Courtesy of Dmitry Litvak and Tuyet Nhung Le.

Estonia issues new 10-kroon note


10 krooni (US$1), 2008. 30,000 notes introduced in special folder with 1-kroon coin for EEK200 (US$19.95) on 20.06.2008, to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia and the 16th anniversary of the re-introduction of the kroon. Front: Girl in national costume holding sheaves of wheat based upon design by Günther Reindorff for 1928 EEK10 (P63), but new date, new signatures (Andres Lipstok, President; Mart Sõrg, Noukogu Esimees), plus watermark and registration device at right. Back: Designed by Vladimir Taiger; depicts Tamme-Lauri oak at Urvaste and coat of arms. Security features include 90th anniversary logo as watermark, 1918 and 2008 as latent images, intaglio printing, microtext, and fluorescent ink. 140 x 69 mm.

Slovakia new date (20.10.2006) 20-korun note confirmed


20 korun (US$1), 20. OKTÓBRA 2006. Like P20, but new date and new signatures. Series S. Printer: Giesecke & Devrient. 128 x 65 mm.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Royal Bank of Scotland new date (19.09.2006) 10-pound note confirmed


10 pounds (US$19.70), 19th SEPTEMBER 2006. Like P353, but new date. Printer: THOMAS DE LA RUE AND COMPANY LIMITED. The signature of the group chief executive remains that of Fred Goodwin.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Moldova new date (2007) 200-leu note confirmed

200 lei (US$19.25), 2007. Like P16, but new date. 133 x 66 mm.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Czech Republic revised 1,000-korun note confirmed


1,000 korun (US$60.65), 2008. To be issued April 1, 2008. Like P15, but new date, new signature (Tůma, GUVERNER), and many additional security features, including bichrome patterned iridescent strip of overlapping gold and blue, Omron rings, 1000 and linden leaf added as electrotype watermark, 3.0-mm windowed puce-to-green security thread with hatched ČNB 1000 Kč, and additional UV features. Designer: Oldřich Kulhánek. Printer: State Printing Office, Prague. 158 x 74 mm.

Courtesy of Claudio Marana.

Lithuania issues revised 10- and 100-lita notes

On December 29, 2006, the Bank of Lithuania announced plans to order 50 million 10-litas notes, 45 million 50-litas notes, and 50 million 100-litas notes.

On March 5, 2008, both the 10- (US$4.40) and 100-litas (US$43.95) notes dated 2007 were issued with additional security features. Previous 10-litas notes dated 1997 and 2001, as well as 100-litas notes dated 2000, remain legal tender.


10 litas (US$4.40), 2007. Issued March 5, 2008. Like P65, but iridescent stripe to right of portraits with denomination as latent image, and no microperforation. Printer: Giesecke & Devrient.


100 litas (US$43.95), 2007. Issued March 5, 2008. Like P62, but holographic stripe, denomination at left front in green-to-magenta OVI, denomination as electrotype watermark, and paper tinted green. Printer: François-Charles Oberthur Fiduciaire.

Courtesy of Valdemar Griskevic.

Bank of Ireland issues new notes featuring Bushmills distillery

According to a February 12, 2008 report in Drinks International, the Bank of Ireland will issue 5-, 10-, and 20-pound notes, the backs of which feature the Diageo’s Bushmills whiskey distillery in celebration of the distillery’s 400th anniversary. Stephen Kirkpatrick, chief executive of Bank of Ireland Northern Ireland, said: “Because Bank of Ireland is one of the leading business banks in this region, we felt our new notes should feature a business that is symbolic both of our heritage and of our skill in crafting products for a global market.”

Interestingly enough, although all three notes bear the same date, the lowest denomination bears the signature of David McGowan, but the two other notes issued just one month later bear the signature of Stephen Kirkpatrick and a different title.



5 pounds (US$9.90)
Purple. Front: Bank of Ireland seal (Hibernia seated); six county shields. Back: Old Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim. Solid security thread. Watermark: Medusa head. 136 x 70 mm. 20th APRIL 2008. Signature: David McGowan, Chief Executive UK. Introduced 22.04.2008.



10 pounds (US$19.85)
Blue. Front: Bank of Ireland seal (Hibernia seated); six county shields. Back: Old Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim. Solid security thread. Watermark: Medusa head. 143 x 75 mm. 20th APRIL 2008. Signature: Stephen Kirkpatrick, Chief Executive NI. Introduced May 2008.



20 pounds (US$39.70)
Dark green. Front: Bank of Ireland seal (Hibernia seated); six county shields. Back: Old Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim. Solid security thread. Watermark: Medusa head. 150 x 80 mm. 20th APRIL 2008. Signature: Stephen Kirkpatrick, Chief Executive NI. Introduced May 2008.

Courtesy of Kai Hwong.

Clydesdale Bank of Scotland new date (2006) 20-pound note confirmed


20 pounds (US$39.10), 24th JUNE 2006. Front like P229E, back like P221, but new date.

Anyone interested in buying this note can contact the contributor by clicking the link below. Be sure to say you saw it mentioned here on Banknotenews.com.

Courtesy of Barry Boswell (www.collectpapermoney.co.uk).

Ireland’s Ulster Bank revised £5, £10, and £20 notes confirmed



5 pounds (US$10.45), 1st JANUARY 2007. Like P335, but new date, new typeface for Ulster Bank Limited, Royal Bank of Scotland logo added, and new signature (Cormac McCarthy, GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE). Printer: DE LA RUE.



10 pounds (US$19.60), 1st JANUARY 2007. Like P336, but new date, new typeface for Ulster Bank Limited, Royal Bank of Scotland logo added, and new signature (Cormac McCarthy, GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE). Printer: DE LA RUE.



20 pounds (US$39.25), 1st JANUARY 2007 and 1st JANUARY 2008. Like P337, but new dates, new typeface for Ulster Bank Limited, Royal Bank of Scotland logo added, and new signature (Cormac McCarthy, GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE). Printer: DE LA RUE.

Courtesy of Barry Boswell and banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Norway new date 200-, 500-, and 1,000-krone notes confirmed


200 kroner (US$33.20), 2006. Like P50, but new date, and new new signatures (Svein Gjedrem, Governor; Trond Eklund, Cashier’s Department Director).


500 kroner (US$92.10), 2005. Like P51, but new date, and new new signatures (Svein Gjedrem, Governor; Trond Eklund, Cashier’s Department Director).

1,000 kroner (US$184.20), 2004. Like P52, but new date, and new new signatures (Svein Gjedrem, Governor; Trond Eklund, Cashier’s Department Director).

Courtesy of Jan Ove.

Estonia issues new date (2007) 100-kroon note


100 kroon (US$9.45), 2007. Issued 10 January 2008. Like P82, but new date, new signatures (Andres Lipstok, President; Mart Sõrg, Nõukogu esimees), wider (2 mm vs. 1.2 mm) security thread fluoresces blue under UV light, and rectangle with denomination in UV ink moved from front to back. Printer: (Gieseke & Devrient).

Courtesy of Michael Perelman.

Hungary new date (2007) 20,000-forint note (B577e) confirmed

Hungary_MNB_20000_forint_2007.00.00_B577e_P193d_GA_9461879_fHungary_MNB_20000_forint_2007.00.00_B577e_P193d_GA_9461879_r
Like B577d, but new date (2007) and new signatures (Henrik Auth, Zsigmond Járai, Surányi György).

Courtesy of Kevin Klauss.

Trans-Dniester issues new series of notes

On December 22, 2007, the Trans-Dniester Republican Bank issued a new series of banknotes. The new notes feature the same people and places as the old notes, but the images have been modified to extend to the border. Furthermore, anti-counterfeiting features have been enhanced with the inclusion of a windowed security thread on all denominations. The existing 200- and 500-rublei notes will not be issued as part of this series as they already contain sophisticated security features. Both the new and old series will circulate without restrictions.


1 rouble (US$0.10), 2007. Portrait of Russian General Alexander Suvorov. Kitskansky Bridgehead memorial complex on back. 129 x 56 mm.


5 rublei (US$0.60), 2007. Portrait of Russian General Alexander Suvorov. KVINT distillery administrative building on back. 129 x 56 mm.


10 rublei (US$1.20), 2007. Portrait of Russian General Alexander Suvorov. Novo-Nyametsky monastery on back. 129 x 56 mm.


25 rublei (US$2.95), 2007. Portrait of Russian General Alexander Suvorov. Bendery fortress and memorial to Russian warriors on back. 129 x 56 mm.


50 rublei (US$5.95), 2007. Portrait of Ukrainian Poet Taras Shevchenko. Trans-Dniester Parliament building on back. 129 x 60 mm.


100 rublei (US$11.85), 2007. Portrait of Moldavian Prince Dmitry Kantemir. Cathedral of Christmas in Tiraspol on back. 129 x 60 mm.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Serbia to issue a new series of notes in 2010

In December 2007, the National Bank of Serbia announced a design competition open to the public to create a new banknote series containing nine denominations: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 dinars. The new notes aren’t expected to be issued until 2010.

Scotland new date (16.04.2007) Clydesdale £10 note confirmed


10 pounds (US$20.85), 16th APRIL 2007. Like P226, but new date.

Norway new date (2006) 100-krone note confirmed


100 kroner (US$18.20), 2006. Like P49, but new date.

Courtesy of Mirsad Delic.

Latvia revised (2007) 5-lat note confirmed



5 lats (US$10.55), 2007. Like P49, but new date, new signature (Rimsevics, Governor), and new security features, including two relief inscriptions of the nominal value imprinted above the oak-leaf registration device, parallelagram of LATVIJAS BANKA microprinting beneath large 5 in OVI at left. Starting serial number suffix apparently R with replacement notes presumably continuing to use Z suffix. 130 x 65 mm.

Courtesy of Jacek Tylicki.

Sweden revised 50-kronor note (2004) confirmed



50 kronor (US$7.95), (200)4. Issued March 15, 2006. Like P62, but new signatures (Jan Bergqvist and Lars Heikensten), 2-mm wide solid security thread with repeating 50, holographic stripe, microtext, Omron rings, 50 as registration device and electrotype watermark, irridescent stripe on back. Printer: Tumba Bruk. 120 x 77 mm.

Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.

Sweden revised 1,000-kronor note confirmed



1,000 kronor (US$160), (200)5. Issued March 15, 2006. Like P60, but new signatures (Jan Bergqvist and Lars Heikensten), design bleeds to border, windowed Motion security thread, 2-mm wide solid security thread with repeating 1000, holographic stripe, microtext, 17th century warship in UV ink, Omron rings, 1000 as registration device and electrotype watermark, irridescent stripe on back. Printer: Tumba Bruk. 160 x 82 mm.

Trans-Dniester corrected 200-rublie note confirmed


200 rublei (US$23.70), 2004. Like TDRB B7a (P40), but with Ukrainian E on series prefix AA (top) corrected to I on series prefix AB (bottom) as 6th character, 1st word, 3rd line of text on front, and I instead of backwards N as 8th character, 2nd word, 3rd line. Prefix AB.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Bulgaria issues revised 20-lev note dated 2007



20 lev (US$14.95), 2007. Issued 12.11.2007. Like P118, but new date, new signature (governor), windowed security thread, fluorescent image, and modified watermark.

Courtesy of Kevin Klauss.

Gibraltar new date (01.12.2006) notes confirmed


10 pounds (US$19.60), 1ST DECEMBER 2006. Like P26, but new date and new signature (Tim Bristow, FINANCIAL AND DEVELOPMENT SECRETARY).


20 pounds (US$39.25), 1ST DECEMBER 2006. Like P27, but new date and new signature (Tim Bristow, FINANCIAL AND DEVELOPMENT SECRETARY).


50 pounds (US$104.50), 1ST DECEMBER 2006. Like P28, but new date and new signature (Tim Bristow, FINANCIAL AND DEVELOPMENT SECRETARY).

Gibraltar has also issued new 20-pound notes with the same date and signature as above.

Courtesy of Morris Lawing and Christof Zellweger.

Slovakia new date (01.08.2007) 1,000-korun note confirmed


1,000 korun (US$42.20), 1. AUGUSTA 2007. Like SCWPM 42, but new date and new signatures (Ivan Sramko and Milena Korenova).

Bulgaria's Cyrillic "evro" wins approval

According to an 18 October 2007 Reuters report, “Bulgaria won the right to spell the euro common currency as ‘evro’ in its Cyrillic language…The EU newcomer has fought hard for the right to spell the euro according to Cyrillic rules despite the European Central Bank’s insistence that the euro be spelled the same way across the 27-nation bloc. The Black Sea country argued that ‘evro’ is the correct transliteration of ‘euro’ into Cyrillic…The question of whether Bulgaria will be able to use ‘evro’ on banknotes if it enters the single currency zone—something that is not expected until well after 2010—remains open.”

Slovakia new date (01.06.2006) 200-korun note confirmed


200 korun (US$8.45), 1. JÚNA 2006. Like SCWPM 41, but new date and new signatures (Ivan Sramko and Ján Mathes).

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Hungary new sig/date (2007) 1,000-forint note (B573c) confirmed


Like B573b, but new date (2007) and new signatures (Dr. Karvalits Ferenc; Simor András; Dr. Király Júlia).

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Hungary new sig/date (2007) 200-forint note (B568h) confirmed


Like B568g, but new date (2007) and new signatures.

Courtesy of Michael Reissner.

Serbia issues revised 100-dinara note dated 2006


100 dinara (US$1.70), 2006. Like SCWPM 41, but new date, repositioned registration device, and Republic of Serbia coat of arms instead of National Bank of Serbia logo on back.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Estonia to issue new date 25-, 100-, and 500-kroon notes

Estonia to issue new date 25-, 100-, and 500-kroon notes Read More...

Latvia issues revised 20-lat note dated 2007


20 lats (US$39.10), 2007. Like Pick 51, but new date, new signature (Rimsevics, Governor), and wider windowed security thread on back.

Courtesy of Gunars Troska.

Czech Republic issues revised 2,000-korun note


2,000 korun (US$93.65), 2007. Issued July 2, 2007. Like Pick 22, but new date, new signature (Tuma, GUVERNER), and many additional security features, including bichrome patterned iridescent strip of overlapping gold and blue, series other than A and B, Omron rings, 2000 and small ornament added as electrotype wmk, 3.0-mm windowed puce-to-green security thread with hatched CNB 2000 Kc, and additional UV features. Printer: State Printing Office, Prague.

Courtesy of Czech National Bank.



Bank of Scotland unveils new note family featuring bridges

The Bank of Scotland announced that it intends to release a new family of banknotes in the autumn of 2007 (they are all dated 17th SEPTEMBER 2007). The new notes—printed by De La Rue—will retain the color scheme and physical size as the current series. This is the first new complete family of notes issued by the bank since 1995. The old notes will be slowly withdrawn from circulation.

The front of the new notes all share a portrait of Sir Walter Scott at center, and to the left a larger image of the Bank of Scotland’s head office on The Mound, Edinburgh. The notes also bear new signatures (Dennis Stevenson, Governor; Colin Matthew, Treasurer), Scott as watermark along with the numerals of the denomination as an electrotype watermark, Cornerstone watermarks, microprinting, four thistles in UV ink, the bank logo as registration device, intaglio printing, and vertical and horizontal novel serial numbers.


5 pounds (US$10). Blue. Thin windowed security thread, iridescent band at right. Brig o’ Doon over the Doon River near Alloway in Ayrshire on back. 135 x 70 mm.    


10 pounds (US$20). Brown. Thin windowed security thread, iridescent band at right. Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Railway line between Fort William and Mallaig on back. 142 x 75 mm.


20 pounds (US$40). Pink. Wide windowed security thread that changes red to green when tilted, hologram of bank logo and denomination. Forth Bridge in Queensferry on back. 149 x 80 mm.


50 pounds (US$100). Green. Wide windowed security thread that changes red to green when tilted, hologram of bank logo and denomination. Falkirk Wheel rotating boat lift on back. 156 x 85 mm.


100 pounds (US$200). Red. Wide windowed security thread that changes red to green when tilted, hologram of bank logo and denomination. Kessock Bridge over the Moray and Beauly Firths between Inverness and the Black Isle on back. 163 x 90 mm.

Courtesy of the Bank of Scotland.

Lithuania issues new date (2007) 20-lita note


20 litu (US$7.80), 2007. Issued June 11, 2007. Like Pick 66, but new date, iridescent strip with LTL and 20 as PEAK (printed embossed anticopy key), and no mircoperforations. Printer: Giesecke & Devrient GmbH. 135 x 65 mm.

Courtesy of Valdemar Griskevic.


Serbia issues new date (2007) 500-dinar note


500 dinars (US$8.30), 2007. Issued June 4, 2007. Like Pick 43a, but new date and Republic of Serbia coat of arms instead of National Bank of Serbia logo.
 
Courtesy of Igor Dolasevic.

Ukraine new 200-hryvnia note (B852a) confirmed


200 гривень (hryven), 2007. Issued May 28, 2007. Lesya Ukrainka as portrait and wmk, security thread, 200 as registration device, tactile bars for the sight-impaired, plus UV, IR, and magnetic elements. Tower of the Lutsk lock on back. 148 x 75 mm.
 
Courtesy of Mikhail Istomin. Information courtesy of Dmitri Kharitonov.

Malta new signature variety 5-liri note confirmed


5 liri (US$15.65), L.1967. Like Pick 46, but new signature (Michael C. Bonello, Gvernatur). SCWPM has incorrect middle initial of P in listing for Pick 47c.

Norway new date 50- and 200-krone notes confirmed


50 kroner (US$8.30), 2005. Like Pick 46, but new date (on back), new signatures (Svein Gjedrem, Governor; Trond Eklund, Cashier’s Department Director), wider security thread printed Norges Bank, and Omron rings on front.



200 kroner (US$33.20), 2004. Like Pick 50, but new date (last four digits of number in lower left on front), and new signatures.


Latvia issues revised 100-lat note dated 2007



100 lats (US$194), 2007. Issued May 21, 2007. Like Pick 47, but new date, new signature (Rimsevics, Governor), and new security features, including serial number repeated in red in upper front left, horizontal band with 100 in greyish-brown print, 100 at lower left in larger reddish-brown OVI (also heat sensitive), vertical translucent band to left of portrait, transparent window with red semicircle of the Sun and Ls, silver Sun semicircle between the transparent window and the registration device, wider windowed security thread (with holograms and Ls 100), and 100 Ls as latent image in ornamental band on back right margin. Replacement notes suffix Z.

Courtesy of Girts Eisters (IBNS member 9639) and Frank van Tiel.

Macedonia new date (00.01.2007) 10-denar note (B206g) confirmed


Like B206f, but new date and signature (Petar Goshev, Governor).

Courtesy of Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Isle of Man new signature 10-pound note confirmed


10 pounds (US$20), ND. Like Pick 44, but new signature (P.M. Shimmin, Chief Financial Officer).

Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Ömer Yalcinkaya.

Switzerland new signature (2004) 50-franc note confirmed


Like previously-reported 50 franken dated (20)04, but with new signature for Un membre de la Direction générale.

Courtesy of Menelaos Stamatelos, Southeastern Numismatics.

Slovakia new date (25.08.2005) 1,000-korun note confirmed


1,000 korun (US$39.25), 25 Augusta 2005. Like Pick 42, but new date, and new signatures (Ivan Šramko, Governor; Jan Mathes, Executive Director, Currency Division). Printer: De La Rue.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net and Peter Jarabek (National Bank of Slovakia).

England issues new 20-pound note featuring Adam Smith



Today the Bank of England issued a new £20 featuring Adam Smith, one of the fathers of modern economics. This is the first design in a new series of notes from the bank known collectively as “Series F.”

The new notes will circulate in parallel with the current £20 (Pick 390), which will be progressively withdrawn from circulation. Measuring 149 x 80 mm, the new £20 is the same size as the current note. The portrait of Queen Elizabeth II is retained on the front, but the new note features a brighter color purple, as well as a large silver holographic strip, a registration device, additional intaglio printing, improved watermark, and more UV features to deter counterfeiters. The new note bears the signature of Andrew Bailey, Chief Cashier.

A portrait of Smith appears on the back of the new note, along with an engraving showing “The division of labour in pin manufacturing” with the parenthetical quote “and the great increase in the quantity of work that results” drawn from his major work, An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. The image of Adam Smith is based on a likeness of the portrait of him by James Tassie — Scottish National Portrait Gallery — and reproduced by permission; and the image of pin manufacturing is based on an original image, and by permission of The British Library. Adam Smith (1723 - 1790) is the first economist and the first Scotsman to appear on a Bank of England note.

Pick 392: 20 pounds (US$38.60)). Issued March 13, 2007. Bright purple. Series F. QEII portrait, holographic stripe, registration device, additional intaglio printing, improved wmk, and more UV features. Signature: Andrew Bailey, Chief Cashier. Portrait of economist Adam Smith and illustration of “The division of labour in pin manufacturing” on back. 149 x 80 mm.

Bulgaria new date (2005) 2-lev note confirmed


2 leva (US$1.35), 2005. Like Pick 115, but new date, new signatures, and series B. 116 x 64 mm.

For more information, visit the Bulgarian National Bank.

Courtesy of Menelaos Stamatelos, Southeastern Numismatics.

Clydesdale Bank issues new date (14.3.2006) 10-pound note


10 pounds (US$19.45), 14th March 2006. Like Pick 226, but new date.

Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Jersey 1-pound note with 3-character prefix confirmed


1 pound, no date. Like Pick 26, but serial number prefix comprised of three, not two, characters.

Courtesy of Jose Manuel Peso.

Switzerland settles on designer of new notes for 2008


According to a February 26, 2007, press release, the Swiss National Bank is preparing a new family of banknotes designed by Zurich-based graphic artist Manuela Pfrunder, who placed second in the SNB’s design competition in November 2005.

Pfrunder’s original designs for the six denominations (the 10 Swiss franc is shown above) will require extensive reworking, both artistically and technically, before production begins in mid-2008.

Courtesy of Swiss National Bank.

Estonia issues revised 2- and 10-krooni notes dated 2006

The central Bank of Estonia has issued a new series of 2- and 10-krooni bank notes with a few renewed security features. Existing notes of the same denomination remain legal tender.

"Until now the latest Estonian bank notes were the 25-kroon notes printed in 2002. The new 2- and 10-kroon bank notes will not be the last ones Eesti Pank will issue before the euro changeover. At present, we are also preparing to order additional 25-, 100- and 500-kroon bank notes," said Andres Lipstok, Governor of Eesti Pank.


2 krooni (US$0.15), 2006. Issued 3 January 2007. Like Pick 70, but new date, new signatures (Andres Lipstok, Governor; Mart Sõrg, Chairman), and K. E. von Baer as watermark. Printer: (Giesecke & Devrient). 140 x 69 mm.


10 krooni (US$0.85), 2006. Issued 3 January 2007. Like Pick 77, but new date, new signatures (Andres Lipstok, Governor; Mart Sõrg, Chairman), Jakob Hurt as watermark, tactile feature for visually impaired in the lower right, and serial numbers now on back. Printer: (De La Rue). 140 x 69 mm.

Courtesy of Michael Perelman.

Slovenia unlisted date (2004/2005) and signature combos

Slovenia adopts the euro tomorrow, so it’s fitting that we report on a half dozen previously unlisted date/signature combos:


200 tolars (US$1.10), 15. Januar 2004. Issued August 2, 2004. Like Pick 15, but new date and signatures (Mitja Gaspari, Guverner; Samo Nucic, Clan Sveta Banke).

1,000 tolars ($5.50), 15. Januar 2004. Issued August 2, 2004. Like Pick 32, but new date and signatures as above.

5,000 tolars (US$27.50), 15. Januar 2004. Issued August 2, 2004. Like Pick 33, but new date and signatures as above.

10,000 tolars (US$55), 15. Januar 2004. Issued April 4, 2005. Like Pick 34, but new date and signatures as above.


500 tolars (US$2.75), 15. Januar 2005. Issued June 20, 2005. Like Pick 16, but new date and signatures (Mitja Gaspari, Guverner; Ivan Ribnikar, Clan Sveta Banke).

1,000 tolars (US$5.50), 15. Januar 2005. Issued June 20, 2005. Like Pick 32, but new date and signatures as above.

Courtesy of Stane Straus and Christof Zellweger.



Moldova new date (2006) 10-leu note confirmed

10 leu (US$0.75), 2006. New date.

Lithuania to issue revised 10- and 100-lita notes


On December 29, 2006, the Bank of Lithuania announced plans to order 50 million 10-litas notes, 45 million 50-litas notes, and 50 million 100-litas notes.

Both the 10- (US$3.80) and 100-litas (US$38.15) notes will contain additional security features, and therefore the new year of issue will be 2007. The 50-litas (US$19.05) notes will be unchanged from the 2003 design (Pick 67).

Courtesy of Bank of Lithuania.

Macedonia new date (00.01.2006) 10-denar note (B206f) confirmed

Macedonia_NBRM_10_denari_2006.01.00_B206f_P14f_ДД_705671_fMacedonia_NBRM_10_denari_2006.01.00_B206f_P14f_ДД_705671_r
Like B206e, but new date and signature (Petar Goshev, Governor).

Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko.

Hungary new sig/date (2006) 5,000-forint note (B576c) confirmed


Like B575b, but new date (2006) and new signatures (Péter Adamecz, Zsigmond Járai, Dr. György Surányi).
 
Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Hungary new date (2006) 10,000-forint note (B576h) confirmed


Like B576g, but new date (2006) and new signatures (Péter Adamecz, Zsigmond Járai, Dr. György Surányi).
 
Courtesy of banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Clydesdale Bank commemorates Robert the Bruce on 20-pound note


20 pounds (US$39.15), 25th March 2006. Issued December 21, 2006. Like Pick 228f, but RB prefix, new bank logo, Bruce’s original heraldic shield plus 700th anniversary 1306 - 2006 at right, and 700th anniversary of the enthronement of Robert the Bruce as King of Scots, which took place at Scone Palace on 25 March 1306 on back.

Courtesy of Noteboy.

Hungary new dates (2005 and 2006) 1,000-forint notes (B573a/b) confirmed


1,000 forint (US$5.25), 2005. Issued April 10, 2006. Like B572, but new dates, new signatures (Péter Adamecz, Zsigmond Járai, Dr. György Surányi), copper holographic stripe, and iridescent stripe.

1,000 forint (US$5.25), 2006. Issued April 10, 2006. Like B573a, but new dates, new signatures (Henrik Auth, Zsigmond Járai, Dr. György Surányi), copper holographic stripe, and iridescent stripe.
 
Courtesy of Magyar Nemzeti Bank and banknoteshop@gmx.net.

Estonia to print a new round of krooni notes

According to an article in The Baltic Times dated December 20, 2006: “Due to the ever-retreating prospects of joining the euro currency zone, the central Bank of Estonia has announced it will print a new round of bank notes. The currency supply was expected to be phased out and replaced by the euro. But the bank said the nation would need a new injection of notes prior to Estonia’s entering the eurozone. The first to be replenished will be the two and 10 kroon banknotes – which may come as a surprise to many Estonians, who find their wallets overflowing with the near-worthless paper money.”

No word on when the new notes would be released, nor what changes will be made to the design of same. The 2-kroon note (Pick 70a) is worth US$0.15 and the 10-kroon note (Pick 77a) is worth US$0.85.

Bank of Scotland new date (2006) 5-pound note confirmed


Pick 119: 5 pounds, 1st January 2006. New date and new signatures (Dennis Stevenson, Governor; Colin Matthew, Treasurer).

Courtesy of John Martin (IBNS member 6727).

Romania new 200-leu polymer note (B284) confirmed


Pick 122: 200 lei, 1 decembrie 2006. Orange. Lucian Blaga (1895-1961) as portrait and wmk, poppies, open book with page from poems Self-portrait and 9 May 1895, coat of arms, NBR logo, signatures (Mugur Isarescu, Governor; unknown, Head Cashier), transparent window with pen and 200 embossed, denomination in gold-to-green OVI, registration device, security thread, and microperforations. Neolithic statue of the Thinker of Hamangia, rainbow, water mill with NBR latent image, sessile oak, NBR logo, vertical serial number in black, horizontal novel serial number in red, and iridescent stripe on back. Polymer. 150 x 82 mm.

Norway to outsource note printing in 2007

According to a November 28, 2006, article in the Norway Post, the Norges Bank will cease printing Norwegian banknotes in 2007. Central Bank director Harald Boehn says the bank is unable to produce notes as economically as printers abroad.

Norges Bank has entered into agreements for the delivery of notes with De La Rue in the UK and Francois-Charles Oberthur Fiduciaire in France. The contracts apply for the period 2007 – 2012. The first deliveries will probably be made in 2008.

Norges Bank expects to save in the order of NOK 10 million annually during the contract period. An expert on economic history, professor Francis Sejersted, questioned the decision to save “small sums” instead of continuing the tradition of producing the national symbols domestically.

In related news, security printer De La Rue announced interim pretax profits were up 59% on the strength of “exceptional” bank note printing volumes. DLR is involved in printing notes for 150 countries. For an excellent examination of how companies like De La Rue attempt to win over the business of central banks, I strongly suggest reading Moneymakers: The Secret World of Banknote Printing.

Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new date (2006) £10 note confirmed



The (Scottish) Clydesdale Bank has issued a new £10 dated 14th March 2006, signed David Thornburn, Chief Operating Officer. At first glance it appears to be just a new date variety, but it is actually a new plate. Close examination reveals that the bank logo at center on the front has been redesigned with a much larger CB (compare detail above from Pick 226e at left with new note at right).

Courtesy of John Martin (IBNS member 6727).

Royal Bank of Scotland new date (2005) 5-pound note confirmed


The Royal Bank of Scotland has issued a new £5 dated 20th January 2005. The signature of the group chief executive remains that of Fred Goodwin, as on Pick 352d dated 27.6.2000.

Courtesy of John Martin (IBNS member 6727).

Ireland’s Ulster Bank to issue £5 note featuring George Best


Northern Ireland’s Ulster Bank today announced that it will release a limited edition £5 (US$8) note featuring legendary football (soccer) star George Best. The bank plans to issue one million commemorative notes in November to coincide with the first anniversary of the death of the celebrated Northern Irishman and Manchester United star at age 59 due to multiple organ failure following decades of alcohol abuse.
Application forms will be available from Ulster Bank branches in Northern Ireland & Republic of Ireland or online from this web site starting November 13. The commemorative notes will then be available to purchase at any Ulster Bank branch in Northern Ireland starting November 27.

Courtesy of Frank van Tiel.

Hungary issues new 500-forint commemorative note (B580)


B580: 500 forint, 2006. Issued 20.10.2006, in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Hungarian revolution and war of independence. Front like B570, but new back with Parliament building, the tri-color national flag with a hole, registration device, and three dots in upper right-hand corner for the partially sighted. Watermark contains inscription of “50. EVFORDULO 1956. OCTOBER 23.”
 
Courtesy of Magyar Nemzeti Bank, banknoteshop@gmx.net, and Cleophas Elmakias Schockemohle.

Serbia issues new 100-dinar note dated 2006


100 dinar, 2006. Issued October 20, 2006. Like Pick 41, but with new coat of arms and signature (Radovan Jelasic, guverner) on back. Blue, green, and ochre-yellow. Scientist Nikola Tesla, magnetic induction calculation formula, electrical discharge, and Tesla’s electric induction device. Tesla (from the photograph of Nikola Tesla from his Museum in Belgrade), electromagnetic engine, and “Tesla’s Dove” on back. 143 x 68 mm.
 
Courtesy of National Bank of Serbia.

Poland issues new 50-zlotych “Pope note”


50 zlotych, 16 padziernika 2006. Issued October 16, 2006, the 28th anniversary of Karol Wojtya’s election to the papacy. Designed by Andrzej Heidrich and engraved by J.M. Kopecki. John Paul II holding crucifix-topped staff at right, world map in background. Signatures (Leszek Balcerowicz, Prezes; Mariusz Mastalerz, Glówny Skarbnik). Wmk of papal seal, security thread printed “50 ZL”, microlettering of countries visited by pope, Peter’s keys as registration device, “JP II” as latent image, papal seal fluoresces red and green under UV light, “JP” prefix. Inauguration of John Paul II with cardinal Stefan Wyszynski, a quotation from Letter to Poles, Jasna Góra Monastery and church on back. 2 million pieces issued in special folder for 90 zlotych. Printer: Polska Wytwórnia Papierów Wartociowych SA (with “PWPW S.A.” imprint). 144 x 72 mm.
 
Courtesy of Krzysztof Rene, Tomasz Jazwinski, and Jacek Tylicki.

Latvia issues revised 5-lat note dated 2006


5 lats, 2006. Issued October 12, 2006. Like Pick 49, but new date, new signature (Rimsevics, Governor), and new security features, including two relief inscriptions of the nominal value imprinted above the oak-leaf registration device, parallelagram of “LATVIJAS BANKA” microprinting beneath large “5” in OVI at left. Starting serial number suffix apparently “R” with replacement notes presumably continuing to use “Z” suffix.

Courtesy of Girts Eisters (IBNS member 9639).

Ukraine new 500-hryvnia note (B853a) confirmed


500 гривень (hryven), 2006. Issued 15 September 2006. Signature 4: Stelmah. Grigory Skovoroda as portrait and wmk, fountain in center. Kyiv-Mohyla Academy and seal, Pythagorian triangle on back. 154 x 75 mm.
 
Courtesy of  Yury Akhtemenko.

Ukraine revised 10-hryvnia note (B848a) confirmed


10 гривень (hryven), 2006. Issued August 25, 2006. Like B847, but new date and signature 4 (Stelmah) instead of signature 5 (Tigipko). Hetman Ivan Stepanovych Mazepa (1644 - 1709) as portrait and wmk. Kiev Pechersk Lavra (Kiev Monastery of the Caves), books, candle, inkwell, pen, paper, tambourine, and lute on back. 124 x 66 mm.
 
Courtesy of Mikhail Istomin.

Serbia issues new 20-dinar note dated 2006


20 dinar, 2006. Issued July 18, 2006. Green, ochre-yellow, and black. Signature: Radovan Jelasic, guverner. Petar II Petrovi Njego, with a line sketch of the Cetinje monastery at right. Figure of Petar II Petrovi Njego, detail from the decorative miniature featured on the first Slavic Octoechos, printed in Cetinje in 1494, mountain range of Komovi on back (vertical format). 135 x 64 mm.

Courtesy of Chris Twining.

Serbia issues revised 1,000-dinar note dated 2006


1,000 dinar, 2006. Issued July 18, 2006. Like Pick 44, but with new Serbian coat of arms below serial number on back (vertical format), and new signature: Radovan Jelasic, guverner. 151 x 72 mm.
 
Courtesy of Igor Dolasevic.

Bulgaria issues revised 50-lev note dated 2006


50 leva, 2006. Issued 03.07.2006. Like Pick 119, but series B, new signatures: Ivan Iskrov, Governor; Stefan Tzvetkov, Chief Cashier. New security features include latent image of “50” to the left of Pencho Slaveykov’s collar, golden to green OVI on National Library building under Slaveykov’s signature. Printer: BNB Printing Works, Bulgaria. 136 x 76 mm.

Courtesy of Chris Twining.

Serbia issues new 10-dinar note dated 2006


10 dinar, 2006. Issued May 19, 2006. Ochre-yellow, brown, and green. Signature: Radovan Jelasic, guverner. Vuk Stefanovic Karadic, the creator of contemporary Serbian alphabet, his writing kit, and an open book (exhibits from the standing collection of the Museum devoted to Vuk S. Karadic and Dositej Obradovic). Members of the First Slavic Congress held in Prague in 1848 and vignette of the letters Karadic introduced on back (vertical format). 131 x 62 mm.

Caaourtesy of Chris Twining.

Moldova new date (2006) 1-leu note confirmed

Pick 8: 1 leu, 2006. New date.
 
Courtesy of Gary Snover.