Europe
Romania new 100-leu commemorative note (BNP203) reported for 04.12.2019 introduction
03 12, 2019 08:01
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.
Ukraine new 50- and 200-hryvnia notes (B855 and B857) to be introduced late 2019, early 2020
26 11, 2019 08:42
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.
“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).
“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
24 11, 2019 10:08
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
22 11, 2019 08:12
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.
Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen.
Courtesy of Jan Ove Larsen.
Scotland BOS new 20-pound polymer notes unveiled
07 11, 2019 07:47
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.
Bulgaria new 50-lev note (B238) confirmed introduced 01.11.2019
04 11, 2019 08:57
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.
Courtesy of Andrian Chekanov, Robert Mol, and bgbgbg2008-2008 on eBay.
Courtesy of Andrian Chekanov, Robert Mol, and bgbgbg2008-2008 on eBay.
United Kingdom new 20-pound polymer note (B205) reported for introduction 20.02.2020
10 10, 2019 09:01
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.
Poland new 19-złoty commemorative note (BNP823) confirmed introduced 02.10.2019
02 10, 2019 08:41
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.
Courtesy of Jan Boguś.
Courtesy of Jan Boguś.
Scotland Royal Bank of Scotland new date (04.04.2017) 20-pound note confirmed
24 09, 2019 11:30
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
14 09, 2019 08:38
Like B105n2, but new signature (Draghi).
Courtesy of Mikhail Plakhov.
Albania unveils new banknote family (B322 - B327) to be introduced 2019 - 2022
13 09, 2019 15:14
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.
Courtesy of Vunhan Vuong, Don Cleveland, and Marco Pache.
Courtesy of Vunhan Vuong, Don Cleveland, and Marco Pache.
Switzerland new 100-franc note (B358) confirmed introduced 12.09.2019
13 09, 2019 15:05
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.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger, Aidan Work, Bogdanov Ivan, and Marco Pache.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger, Aidan Work, Bogdanov Ivan, and Marco Pache.
Poland to issue 20-złoty commemorative note in August 2020
10 09, 2019 12:03
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.
Courtesy of Chaopiaobaike.
Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble numismatic product (BNP216) confirmed introduced 20.08.2019
06 09, 2019 15:51
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.
Northern Ireland's Ulster Bank new 20-pound note (B941) design unveiled
27 08, 2019 17:56
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.”
Courtesy of Bogdanov Ivan, Богданов Иван (bonistics.org).
Courtesy of Bogdanov Ivan, Богданов Иван (bonistics.org).
Romania new 20-leu note planned for introduction in 2020
31 07, 2019 07:49
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.
Courtesy of Daniel Stoian.
Belarus new 5- and 10-ruble notes (B144 and B145) confirmed introduced 20.05.2019
23 07, 2019 08:42
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.
Courtesy of Ivan Bogdanov (bonistics.org) and Thomas Augustsson.
Courtesy of Ivan Bogdanov (bonistics.org) and Thomas Augustsson.
Bank of England new 50-pound polymer note to be introduced 2021
15 07, 2019 18:53
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.
Turkey replaces central bank governor Çetinkaya
06 07, 2019 09:40
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.
Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.
Albania new family reported to be introduced beginning in late 2019
06 07, 2019 09:30
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
02 07, 2019 13:24
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.
Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.
United Kingdom chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
27 06, 2019 11:13
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.
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.
Poland new sig/date (14.12.2018) 100-złoty note (B862b) confirmed
17 06, 2019 10:00
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
04 06, 2019 08:51
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
30 05, 2019 09:02
Turkey new signature 20-lira note (B302c) confirmed
15 05, 2019 08:12
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
07 05, 2019 17:34
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Belarus new 5- and 10-ruble notes reported for 20.05.2019 introduction
02 05, 2019 06:47
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.
Courtesy of Ivan Bogdanov.
Bulgaria chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
17 04, 2019 08:30
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.
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.
Romania new date (2019) 1-leu note (B286b) confirmed
09 04, 2019 16:02
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
19 03, 2019 08:47
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
14 03, 2019 10:42
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.
“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.
“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
11 03, 2019 07:45
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
06 03, 2019 09:32
Northern Ireland Bank of Ireland new 10-pound note (B137a) confirmed
06 03, 2019 09:32
Northern Ireland Danske Bank new 10-pound note (B503a) confirmed
04 03, 2019 13:03
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new 5-pound note (B939a) confirmed
01 03, 2019 09:02
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new 10-pound note (B940a) confirmed
01 03, 2019 09:02
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Gibraltar new 10-shilling numismatic product (BNP102a) confirmed
18 02, 2019 09:57
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.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Artem Shevchenko.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson and Artem Shevchenko.
Ukraine new sig/date (2018) 1- and 2-hryvnia notes confirmed
17 02, 2019 08:57
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.
Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov (mbank_notes on eBay).
Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov (mbank_notes on eBay).
Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble commemorative note (B227) reportedly introduced 15.02.2019
17 02, 2019 08:19
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and S. Hakim Hamdani.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and S. Hakim Hamdani.
Hungary new sig/date (2019) 10,000-forint note (B591c) confirmed
14 02, 2019 09:09
Like B591b, but new date (2019) and new signatures. Prefix HA.
Courtesy of Ilkka Malmi.
Romania new 5-leu note (B287a) confirmed
14 02, 2019 09:02
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
13 02, 2019 17:26
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.
Courtesy of Kevin Klauss and Manfred Dietl.
Courtesy of Kevin Klauss and Manfred Dietl.
Northern Ireland First Trust Bank to cease banknote issuance on 30.06.2022
13 02, 2019 10:18
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.
Hungary new 500-forint note (B587.5) confirmed introduced 01.02.2019
12 02, 2019 10:55
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.
Like B581, but new color scheme and improved security features.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Claudio Marana, and Ilkka Malmi.
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
10 02, 2019 15:21
Like B129a, but new signature (Laura Rowley). Prefix DD.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Czech Republic new 100-korun commemorative note (B129a) confirmed
01 02, 2019 08:48
This 100-korun banknote commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Czechoslovak koruna.
Courtesy of Nick Meister and Kevin Klauss.
Courtesy of Nick Meister and Kevin Klauss.
Romania chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
02 01, 2019 17:37
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.
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.
Armenia new 1,000-, 2,000-, and 5,000-dram notes (B319 - B321) confirmed
02 01, 2019 11:47
Courtesy of Tod Hunt.
Ukraine new 100-hryvnia numismatic product (BNP808a) confirmed
02 01, 2019 09:32
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).
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Bulgaria new 100-lev note confirmed introduced 28.12.2018
28 12, 2018 08:34
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.
Courtesy of Krassy Dimitrov, Dimiter Monev, and Aditya Kulkarni.
Romania new coat of arms/date (2018) 10-leu note (B288a) confirmed
19 12, 2018 06:55
Romania new 100-leu numismatic product (BNP202a) confirmed introduced 01.12.2018
07 12, 2018 07:58
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).
Courtesy of Daniel Mendea, Mocanu Alexandru, Radu Andron, Hans-Ludwig Besler, Claudio Marana, Mihai Cristian Vulpe, Catalin Vasilache, Ștefan Vasiliță (www.ebancnote.ro).
Guernsey new 20-pound WWI commemorative note (B168a) confirmed introduced 08.11.2018
29 11, 2018 08:23
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.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Max Keller.
Czech Republic new 100-korun commemorative to be introduced 31.01.2019
11 11, 2018 14:56
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.
Courtesy of Evzen Sknouril.
Northern Ireland's Danske and Bank of Ireland new 5- and 10-pound polymer notes reported for February 2019
07 11, 2018 07:40
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.
Courtesy of Don Ludwig and Ray Allen.
England seeks suggestions for scientist to appear on new 50-pound note
07 11, 2018 07:24
The Bank of England is seeking public input on the design of the new 50-pound note,
Courtesy of Chris Huff and Christopher Nield.
Courtesy of Chris Huff and Christopher Nield.
Czech Republic new 100-korun note (B127a) confirmed
01 11, 2018 09:49
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.
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
30 10, 2018 12:22
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.
Courtesy of Ray Allen, David Hunter, Don Ludwig, and Christopher Nield.
Bank of England announces new 50-pound note to be polymer
30 10, 2018 12:17
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.
Courtesy of Christopher Nield, Mark Irwin, and Don Ludwig.
Norway new 50-krone note confirmed introduced 18.10.2018
25 10, 2018 17:20
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.
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
25 10, 2018 16:37
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.
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
23 10, 2018 10:03
Like B937e, but new date (2016). Prefix A9.
Courtesy of Frede Hansen.
Romania new coat of arms/date (2018) 200-leu note (B291a) confirmed
23 10, 2018 09:52
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
21 10, 2018 11:04
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).
Courtesy of Don Ludwig and Stane Štraus (www.polymernotes.org).
Ukraine unveils revised 20-hryvnia note (B856) confirmed
30 09, 2018 09:24
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
27 09, 2018 09:38
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
23 09, 2018 08:32
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).
Courtesy fo Богданов Иван (http://bonistics.org).
Sweden announces De La Rue to print banknotes for next three years
22 09, 2018 11:38
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
17 09, 2018 10:11
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.
Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.
Courtesy of Dennis Zammit.
Guernsey chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
12 09, 2018 08:34
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.
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Czech Republic new 200-korun note (B128) confirmed
07 09, 2018 08:44
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.
Poland new 20-złoty commemorative note (BNP822) confirmed
02 09, 2018 15:28
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.
Courtesy of Jan Boguś.
Courtesy of Jan Boguś.
Switzerland new 200-franc note (B359) confirmed
22 08, 2018 07:59
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.
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 (
).
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
30 07, 2018 10:28
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
30 07, 2018 10:28
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
17 07, 2018 11:28
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
12 07, 2018 09:20
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
08 07, 2018 12:08
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.
Courtesy of Jan Boguś.
Jersey new signature 1-pound note (B127b) confirmed
29 06, 2018 12:14
Like B127a, but new signature (Richard W. Bell). Prefix HE. Intro: 2018.
Courtesy of Sabine Leuenberger (
Jersey new signatue 50-pound note (B131b) confirmed
29 06, 2018 12:13
Like B131a, but new signature (Richard W. Bell). Prefix AD. Intro: 2018.
Courtesy of Sabine Leuenberger (
Russia new 100-ruble FIFA commemorative note (B840) confirmed introduced 22.05.2018
19 06, 2018 14:51
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).
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.
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
19 06, 2018 08:08
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
16 06, 2018 06:56
Like B208k, but new date (MАЈ 2018). Prefix MC.
Courtesy of Darko Berger.
Tatarstan chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
15 06, 2018 08:52
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
07 06, 2018 14:57
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
31 05, 2018 10:37
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
29 05, 2018 08:12
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
26 05, 2018 08:14
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
25 05, 2018 10:25
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.
Courtesy of Mark Irwin, David Hunter, Philip Smith, Muhammad Zeeshan Yameen, Don Ludwig, and Iain Burn.
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
21 05, 2018 18:21
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.
Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko and Albert Vokhmin.
Courtesy of Vadim Tislenko and Albert Vokhmin.
Poland new sig/date (12.01.2017) 500-złoty note (B864b) confirmed
17 05, 2018 08:24
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
16 05, 2018 09:49
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
01 05, 2018 12:28
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
10 04, 2018 11:49
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.
Courtesy of Martin Grupcev.
Czech Republic new 100-korun commemorative note design competition announced
09 04, 2018 07:47
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.
Courtesy of Mojmir Cerny.
Courtesy of Mojmir Cerny.
Republic of Ireland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
29 03, 2018 10:41
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.
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Romania new coat of arms/date (2018) 100-leu note (B290a) confirmed
24 03, 2018 15:11
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
19 03, 2018 08:16
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.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.
Ireland may stop printing euro banknotes
14 03, 2018 09:50
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.
Courtesy of Jim Chen.
Ukraine to replace 1, 2, 5, and 10 kryven notes with coins
14 03, 2018 09:20
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.
Courtesy of Dmytry Nevmyvako.
Hungary upgraded 1,000-forint note (B588) confirmed introduced 01.03.2018
04 03, 2018 08:01
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.
Courtesy of Ilkka Malmi, Antje Bird, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Courtesy of Ilkka Malmi, Antje Bird, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Italy chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
01 03, 2018 09:03
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.
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Trans-Dniester new 1-ruble commemorative note (B225) confirmed
28 02, 2018 08:45
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.
Courtesy of Дмитрий Невмывако.
Courtesy of Дмитрий Невмывако.
Denmark chooses French firm Oberthur Fiduciaire to produce new notes due in 2020
21 02, 2018 11:24
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
21 02, 2018 08:35
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 BNP301
Kyrgyzstan B234
Armenia BNP301
Kyrgyzstan B234
Denmark new date (2016) 500-kroner note (B938d) confirmed
18 02, 2018 08:46
Like B938c, but new date (2016). Prefix A7.
Courtesy of Frede Hansen.
Albania new 10,000-lek note reportedly approved
10 02, 2018 16:29
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.
Courtesy of Nick Meister.
Albania new sig/date (2015) 500-lek note (B317c) confirmed
07 02, 2018 11:58
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
05 02, 2018 11:47
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.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Germany chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
01 02, 2018 13:46
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.
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.
Ukraine new 100-karbovantsiv numismatic product (BNP807) confirmed introduced 29.12.2017
16 01, 2018 10:12
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.
Courtesy of Artem Shevchenko and Константин Бохонок.
Courtesy of Artem Shevchenko and Константин Бохонок.
Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new date (01.01.2015) 20-pound note (B938g) confirmed
15 01, 2018 11:49
Like B938f, but new date (1st JANUARY 2015). Prefix M.
Bank of Scotland charity auction 10-pound notes confirmed
07 01, 2018 11:59
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.
Courtesy of Olin Yeh.
Courtesy of Olin Yeh.
Romania new crowned eagle notes reportedly introduced 01.01.2018
05 01, 2018 16:28
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.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin, Mihai Vulpe, and Daniel Mendea.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin, Mihai Vulpe, and Daniel Mendea.
Moldova new 5-leu note (B117.5) confirmed
29 12, 2017 09:25
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
19 12, 2017 09:19
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Mike Plakhov.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Mike Plakhov.
Northern Ireland Danske Bank new sig/date 20-pound note (B502b) confirmed
19 12, 2017 08:01
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
06 12, 2017 10:48
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.
Courtesy of Mojmir Cerny.
Trans-Dniester new 1- and 5-ruble commemorative notes (B221, B222) confirmed introduced 03.11.2017
03 12, 2017 09:03
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin, Dmitry Nevmyvako, and Vadim Tislenko.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin, Dmitry Nevmyvako, and Vadim Tislenko.
Lithuania new numismatic product (BNP102) confirmed introduced 04.12.2017
30 11, 2017 11:43
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Robert Bethea.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Robert Bethea.
Turkey new signature 200-lira note (B305c) confirmed
14 11, 2017 09:26
Romania new date (2017) 5-leu note (B279h) confirmed
12 11, 2017 12:02
Like P118, but new date (2017).
Courtesy of Krassy Dimitrov.
Croatia new sig/date (09.07.2012) 50-kuna note (B504b) confirmed
06 11, 2017 05:11
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
31 10, 2017 14:28
According to a press release dated 12 October 2017, the Bank of Russia has introduced a new 2,000-ruble note (B838).
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.
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
27 10, 2017 07:12
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.
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.
Switzerland new 10-franc note (B355) confirmed
18 10, 2017 07:31
Bank of Scotland new 10-pound polymer note confirmed
18 10, 2017 07:25
Royal Bank of Scotland new 10-pound polymer note confirmed
15 10, 2017 12:30
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
13 10, 2017 15:21
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.”
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.
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.”
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
12 10, 2017 20:05
Like B590a, but new date (2017). Prefix BC.
Courtesy of Brian Evans.
Switzerland unveils new 10-franc note due for 18.10.2017 introduction
11 10, 2017 10:08
The Swiss National Bank has unveiled the design of its new 10-franc note scheduled for introduction on 18 October 2017.
Scotland Clydesdale Bank new 10-pound polymer note confirmed
26 09, 2017 11:40
On 21 September 2017, the Clydesdale Bank introduced a new 10-pound polymer note.
Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe.
Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe.
Great Britain new 10-pound polymer note introduced 14.09.2017
13 09, 2017 14:27
On 14 September 2017, the Bank of England introduced a new 10-pound polymer note. Confirmed prefixes: AA, AE, AH, CA, CB.
Dutch banknote printer Joh. Enschedé en zonen auction
12 09, 2017 09:00
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.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Moldova new date (2015) 10-leu note (B118) confirmed
12 09, 2017 08:48
Courtesy of Volodymyr Nakonechnyy (
Moldova new date (2015) 50-leu note (B120) confirmed
12 09, 2017 08:47
Courtesy of Volodymyr Nakonechnyy (
Poland new 20-złoty commemorative note (BNP821) confirmed introduced 21.08.2017
23 08, 2017 07:45
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.
Courtesy of Michael Reissner and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Courtesy of Michael Reissner and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Turkey new signature 50- and 100-lira notes (B303c and B304c) reported
19 07, 2017 10:33
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).
Courtesy of Nazim Alper Ates and M. Okyay Demirors.
Courtesy of Nazim Alper Ates and M. Okyay Demirors.
Great Britain unveils new 10-pound polymer note for 14.09.2017 intro
19 07, 2017 10:09
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
14 07, 2017 10:06
Like P121, but new date (2017).
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Gligor Adrian Borza.
Bosnia-Herzegovina new sig/date (2017) notes confirmed
08 07, 2017 07:22
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).
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Leo Reich.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana and Leo Reich.
Luxembourg chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
29 06, 2017 09:58
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.
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.
Norway new 100- and 200-krone notes confirmed
12 06, 2017 11:28
Soviet banknotes discovered abandonded in Russian forest
02 06, 2017 07:58
Check out this fascinating video of billions of demonetized Soviet banknotes abandoned in a Russian forest.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Bank of Scotland new 10-pound polymer note unveiled
29 05, 2017 08:34
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.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Hungary new date (2017) 20,000-forint note (B592c) confirmed
22 05, 2017 12:06
Like B592b, but new date (2017). Prefix GA.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Switzerland new 20-franc note (B356) confirmed
21 05, 2017 09:42
Three different signature varieties have been confirmed.
Courtesy of Christof Zellwegger.
Austria-Hungary chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
19 05, 2017 09:14
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.
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.
Denmark new date (2016) 50-krone note (B935f) confirmed
17 05, 2017 10:58
B935f: Like B935e, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Frede Hansen.
Switzerland unveils new 20-franc note (B356) to be introduced 17.05.2017
10 05, 2017 09:11
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.
"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.
"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
09 05, 2017 10:30
Courtesy of Volodymyr Nakonechnyy (
Turkey new signature 5-lira note (B306b) confirmed
09 05, 2017 10:08
Like B306a, but new signatures (Murat Çetinkaya and Erkan Kilimci). Prefix C054.
Courtesy of Paul Nahmias.
Turkey new signature 10-lira note (B301c) confirmed
09 05, 2017 10:06
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
03 05, 2017 10:33
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.
Courtesy of M. Okyay Demirors.
Poland new sig/date (15.09.2016) 10-złoty note (B859b) confirmed
01 05, 2017 17:26
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
27 04, 2017 12:02
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
18 04, 2017 07:59
Like P120, but new date (2017).
Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe and Marius Rosca.
Ukraine central bank governor resigns
11 04, 2017 09:33
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.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Ukraine new sig/date (2016) 20-hryvnia note (B849e) confirmed
07 04, 2017 08:32
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
04 04, 2017 08:42
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
27 03, 2017 08:44
Like P117, but new date (2017).
Courtesy of Marius Rosca.
Serbia chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
23 03, 2017 08:36
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
07 03, 2017 09:24
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
05 03, 2017 11:01
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.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online), Szilard Szemere, and Ilkka Malmi.
The new notes have enhanced security features.
Courtesy of Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online), Szilard Szemere, and Ilkka Malmi.
Macedonia new date (00.12.2016) 1,000-denar note (B214d) confirmed
02 03, 2017 17:36
Like B214c, but new date (Декември 2016). Prefix KA.
Courtesy of Martin Grupcev.
Montenegro chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
24 02, 2017 08:28
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
20 02, 2017 13:08
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
19 02, 2017 12:52
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.
Courtesy of Mark Irwin.
Iceland new signature 5,000-króna note (B816d) confirmed
18 02, 2017 10:13
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
14 02, 2017 16:10
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
10 02, 2017 15:04
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."
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.
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.
German-Austria chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
27 01, 2017 10:53
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
25 01, 2017 08:59
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
19 01, 2017 16:19
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
12 01, 2017 12:22
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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Austria chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
06 01, 2017 14:11
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
03 01, 2017 09:34
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.
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
24 12, 2016 11:22
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
23 12, 2016 09:29
Two years after initially unveiling their designs, the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia introduced banknotes in the new denominations of 200- and 2,000-denar on 15 December 2016, and is withdrawing current 5,000-denar banknotes (B211) to rebalance the structure of banknotes in circulation. Commercial banks will replace 5,000-denar notes from 15 December 2016 up to 28 February 2017. As of 1 March 2017, they will be exchangeable only at the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia.
B215 (PNL): 200 денари (denari) (US$3.60)
Green, orange, yellow, and brown. Front: Leaf as registration device; bird; 7th-century medieval bow bronze fibula (brooch) found near Prilep; 6-7th century Christian terracotta icon from Vinica of warriors Joshua and Caleb wearing armor, holding spears and shield, illustrating Old Testament (The Book of Joshua) episode when Joshua stops the sun over Gibeon and the moon over the valley of Aijalon, before the victory of the Israelites over the Amorites. Back: Floral and star pattern from front facade of the Šarena (Aladža) Džamija in Tetovo and from marble floor tiles of 16th-century Ishak Çelebi Mosque in Bitola. Pearlescent stripe with 200 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 200. Watermark: Star, electrotype 200, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 144 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.
B216 (PNL): 2,000 денари (denari) (US$36)
Purple, orange, yellow, and green. Front (vertical): Early Christian mosaic as registration device; 7th-century bronze poppy cup pendant; woman wearing Macedonian bridal costume; green-to-blue SPARK element. Back: Christian mosaic decoration of two peacocks (birds of paradise) near the “source of life” inside 16th-century gilded vessel. Pearlescent stripe with 2000 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 2000. Watermark: Macedonian bridal costume, electrotype 2000, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 152 x 70 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.
Courtesy of James Pickering (e-worldbanknotes.com).
B215 (PNL): 200 денари (denari) (US$3.60)
Green, orange, yellow, and brown. Front: Leaf as registration device; bird; 7th-century medieval bow bronze fibula (brooch) found near Prilep; 6-7th century Christian terracotta icon from Vinica of warriors Joshua and Caleb wearing armor, holding spears and shield, illustrating Old Testament (The Book of Joshua) episode when Joshua stops the sun over Gibeon and the moon over the valley of Aijalon, before the victory of the Israelites over the Amorites. Back: Floral and star pattern from front facade of the Šarena (Aladža) Džamija in Tetovo and from marble floor tiles of 16th-century Ishak Çelebi Mosque in Bitola. Pearlescent stripe with 200 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 200. Watermark: Star, electrotype 200, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 144 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.
B216 (PNL): 2,000 денари (denari) (US$36)
Purple, orange, yellow, and green. Front (vertical): Early Christian mosaic as registration device; 7th-century bronze poppy cup pendant; woman wearing Macedonian bridal costume; green-to-blue SPARK element. Back: Christian mosaic decoration of two peacocks (birds of paradise) near the “source of life” inside 16th-century gilded vessel. Pearlescent stripe with 2000 and star pattern. Red-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized НБРМ 2000. Watermark: Macedonian bridal costume, electrotype 2000, and Cornerstones. Printer: (TDLR). 152 x 70 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 7. Intro: 15.12.2016.
Courtesy of James Pickering (e-worldbanknotes.com).
Denmark new date (2014) 50-krone note (B935e) confirmed
19 12, 2016 10:06
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
15 12, 2016 09:16
According to a press release dated 15 December 2016, the Swiss National Bank has announced that it will unveil the design of the new 20-franc note (B356) on 10 May 2017, with the notes entering circulation on 17 May 2017. The third denomination in the new family, the 10-franc note (B355) is slated for introduction in autumn 2017.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.
Dutch printer Joh. Enschedé to quit banknote production
03 12, 2016 08:57
According to reports, Dutch security printer Joh. Enschedé plans to quit banknote production due to overcapacity in the sector, and will instead focus on printing stamps and visa documents.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Norway new date (2015) 50-krone note confirmed
01 12, 2016 17:44
Like P46, but new date (2015).
Courtesy of Janus Juraschek.
Norway new sig/date (2014) 100-krone note confirmed
30 11, 2016 15:03
Like P49, but new signatures (Øystein Olsen and Trond Eklund) and new date (2014).
Norway new date (2015) 500-krone note confirmed
29 11, 2016 07:15
Like P51, but new date (2015).
Courtesy of Marius Rosca (IBNS 11437).
Norway new note family unveiled; intro reported for mid-2017
22 11, 2016 07:43
Norges Bank has unveiled the designs of the new note series, the first two denominations (100 and 200 kroner) of which will be introduced on 30 May 2017.
Courtesy of Cleo Has.
Courtesy of Cleo Has.
Greenland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
17 11, 2016 15:05
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.
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Sweden new sig/date (2015) 500-krone note confirmed
13 11, 2016 09:04
Like P73, but new date (2015) and new signatures (Susanne Eberstein/Stefan Ingves).
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson.
Sweden new sig/date (2015) 100-krone note confirmed
13 11, 2016 09:03
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
08 11, 2016 14:00
Like P50, but new date (2014).
Courtesy of Stefaan Rombaut.
Scotland's Royal Bank new 5-pound polymer note confirmed
28 10, 2016 08:23
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
27 10, 2016 09:18
Like B352i, but new date (2014) and new signatures (80).
Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.
Romania new date (2016) 200-leu note (B284h) confirmed
25 10, 2016 08:40
Like P122, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Hungary new 20,000-forint note (B592) confirmed
25 10, 2016 08:33
Like B586, but with new color scheme and updated security features.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Press release: The Banknote Register 2nd edition
24 10, 2016 08:30
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
12 10, 2016 10:57
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).
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new sig/date (13.02.2016) 5-pound polymer commemorative confirmed
28 09, 2016 12:00
According to an article in the Daily Record dated 27 September 2016, the Clydesdale Bank has begun withdrawing paper 5-pound notes and is now issuing a polymer 5-pound banknote, like the commemorative previously issued, but with new date (13th February 2016) and new signature of CEO David Duffy. The text on the back has also changed rom "UNESCO World Heritage Site Nomination" to "Scottish World Heritage Site Inscribed 2015," and a similar change to the front, from "UNESCO World Heritage Site Nomination" to "Scottish World Heritage Site."
Courtesy of Zbyszek Warszawski and Quality World Currency.
Courtesy of Zbyszek Warszawski and Quality World Currency.
Luxembourg's bank museums and displays
27 09, 2016 23:16
Following a great weekend attending the Paper Money Fair in Valkenburg, The Netherlands, I journeyed on to Luxembourg City, where I visited the Head Office of the Banque et Caisse d'Epargne. Alas, I had the misfortune to visit the one day that the bank was holding a special event for its employees, and it had shoved all the banknote displays into an inaccessible corner. The most interesting installation was a mini theater in the old bank vault, which was inexplicably playing a montage of every bank heist movie ever made (not exactly building confidence in the bank's security). The bank doesn't have any items for sale, nor any take-home educational material, but it is free and worth a stop if you're in town. The exterior of the bank is quite beautiful, though the view is temporarily marred by the renovation of the Adolphe Bridge just in front.
Afterwards, I walked 15 minutes to the Banque Central du Luxembourg, which is housed in a very modern building. After being buzzed into the secure numismatic exhibit hall, I was greeted by a large table with many brochures detailing the security features of various euro denominations, but again, nothing was available discussing the country's prior banknote issues. They did offer for sale a huge assortment of numismatic products containing coins, however. This exhibit is also free and worth checking out if you're in the area, though I must admit i enjoyed my stroll through the nearby ravine much more.
Afterwards, I walked 15 minutes to the Banque Central du Luxembourg, which is housed in a very modern building. After being buzzed into the secure numismatic exhibit hall, I was greeted by a large table with many brochures detailing the security features of various euro denominations, but again, nothing was available discussing the country's prior banknote issues. They did offer for sale a huge assortment of numismatic products containing coins, however. This exhibit is also free and worth checking out if you're in the area, though I must admit i enjoyed my stroll through the nearby ravine much more.
Great Britain new polymer 5-pound note confirmed
13 09, 2016 11:24
On 13 September 2016, the Bank of England introduced the first of 440 million polymer 5-pound notes printed by De La Rue. A new 10-pound polymer note featuring Jane Austen is scheduled to be introduced in mid-2017. A new 20-pound polymer note featuring J.M.W. Turner is expected in 2020. The bank has not yet decided if or when it will introduce a new 50-pound note, nor if it will be paper or polymer.
5 pounds
Blue. Front: Bank seal; Elizabeth Tower (aka Big Ben); coronation crown; Queen Elizabeth II. Back: Winston Churchill; maze at Blenheim Palace in green foil. Kurz’s Kinegram Colors holographic stripe. No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): None. Printer: (TDLR). 125 x 65 mm. Polymer (Innovia’s Guardian).
a. 2015. Signature Victoria Cleland. Intro: 13.09.2016.
Courtesy of Antje Bird.
5 pounds
Blue. Front: Bank seal; Elizabeth Tower (aka Big Ben); coronation crown; Queen Elizabeth II. Back: Winston Churchill; maze at Blenheim Palace in green foil. Kurz’s Kinegram Colors holographic stripe. No security thread. Watermark (shadow image): None. Printer: (TDLR). 125 x 65 mm. Polymer (Innovia’s Guardian).
a. 2015. Signature Victoria Cleland. Intro: 13.09.2016.
Courtesy of Antje Bird.
Switzerland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
09 09, 2016 08:40
The Switzerland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 35-page catalog covers notes issued by Die Eidgenössische Staatskasse (The Federal Treasury) and Darlehenskasse der Schweizerischen Eidgenossenschaft (State Loan Bank of Swiss Federation) in 1914, and Schweizerische Nationalbank (Swiss National Bank) from 1907 to present. Published 9 September 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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Scotland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
01 09, 2016 11:28
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.
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.
Gibraltar new 100-pound polymer commemorative note (B135) unveiled
26 08, 2016 11:05
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
26 08, 2016 10:18
According to a press release dated 26 August 2016, the National Bank of Ukraine unveiled a note commemorating the 160th birthday of the Ukrainian writer Ivan Franko. One million notes were printed and will be available beginning 1 September 2016. The note substrate has Ukrainian flax added to reduce the cost of production and increase strength. Apparently 20,000 notes will be packaged with a folder and sold as a numismatic product for 31 hryven each.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Igor Tereshkov.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Igor Tereshkov.
Poland unveils unissued Warsaw Pact notes
20 08, 2016 10:49
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
16 08, 2016 10:02
Like P229J, but new date (25th January 2014). Prefix W/LB.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Faroe Islands chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
11 08, 2016 17:00
The Faroe Islands chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 14-page catalog covers notes issued by the Faerø Amt (Faroe County) in 1940 and the Føroyar (Faroes) from 1949 to present. Published 12 August 2016.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Red stars highlight the many notes missing from the SCWPM
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list.
Belarus new 20-ruble variety (B139b) confirmed
26 07, 2016 10:31
B139b: Like B139a, but with wider gap through center of latent image parallelogram (at center right front). There are also differences in the number of wavy lines in the lower portion of the parallelogram.
Courtesy of Maksim Kazakov.
Belarus new 5-ruble variety (B137b) confirmed
26 07, 2016 10:29
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
25 07, 2016 10:29
The Belarusian ruble was redenominated per an Edict of the President of the Republic of Belarus No. 450 dated 4 November 2015, with existing notes (called the 2000 series) exchanged for new ones (called the 2009 series) at a rate of 10,000:1. A total of seven denominations of banknotes–5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 rubles–and eight denominations of coins–1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 copecks, and 1 and 2 rubles–were introduced on 1 July 2016.
The general concept of the new notes is “Belarus is my country,” with each denomination dedicated to one of the regions of Belarus and the city of Minsk: 5 rubles dedicated to Brest region, 10 rubles to Vitebsk region, 20 rubles to Gomel region, 50 rubles to Grodno region, 100 rubles to Minsk region, 200 rubles to Mogilev region, and 500 rubles to the city of Minsk.
From 1 July 2016 to 31 December 2016, the banknotes of the 2000 series and the banknotes and coins of the 2009 series circulate in parallel and are subject to obligatory acceptance without restriction in all kinds of payments performed by all economic entities. During the next five years–from 1 January 2017 through 31 December 2021–the currency units of the 2000 series will be exchanged for the currency units of the 2009 series in any sum without restriction and charging commission, after which time the 2000 series will be deemed invalid and demonetized.
The redenomination was taken with a view to improving money circulation, streamlining accounting and settlements, maintaining the optimal structure of money denominations, as well as reducing public expenditures on servicing cash circulation in the Republic of Belarus to a significant degree.
The National Bank of the Republic of Belarus ordered the “new” notes from De La Rue in 2008, but due to the global economic crisis of the time, the redenomination was postponed and the freshly printed notes were stored in the bank’s vaults. As such, the notes to be issued in 2016 bear the series date of 2009 and the facsimile signature of Petr P. Prokopovich, the then chairman of the board of the bank. Also, the new 50-ruble note carries an inscription which is inconsistent with currently applicable Belarusian spelling rules. These inconsistencies will be addressed as new notes are ordered from the printer.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Vitali Khaletski, Cleo Phas, Albert Vokhmin, and Александр Чижевский.
The general concept of the new notes is “Belarus is my country,” with each denomination dedicated to one of the regions of Belarus and the city of Minsk: 5 rubles dedicated to Brest region, 10 rubles to Vitebsk region, 20 rubles to Gomel region, 50 rubles to Grodno region, 100 rubles to Minsk region, 200 rubles to Mogilev region, and 500 rubles to the city of Minsk.
From 1 July 2016 to 31 December 2016, the banknotes of the 2000 series and the banknotes and coins of the 2009 series circulate in parallel and are subject to obligatory acceptance without restriction in all kinds of payments performed by all economic entities. During the next five years–from 1 January 2017 through 31 December 2021–the currency units of the 2000 series will be exchanged for the currency units of the 2009 series in any sum without restriction and charging commission, after which time the 2000 series will be deemed invalid and demonetized.
The redenomination was taken with a view to improving money circulation, streamlining accounting and settlements, maintaining the optimal structure of money denominations, as well as reducing public expenditures on servicing cash circulation in the Republic of Belarus to a significant degree.
The National Bank of the Republic of Belarus ordered the “new” notes from De La Rue in 2008, but due to the global economic crisis of the time, the redenomination was postponed and the freshly printed notes were stored in the bank’s vaults. As such, the notes to be issued in 2016 bear the series date of 2009 and the facsimile signature of Petr P. Prokopovich, the then chairman of the board of the bank. Also, the new 50-ruble note carries an inscription which is inconsistent with currently applicable Belarusian spelling rules. These inconsistencies will be addressed as new notes are ordered from the printer.
Courtesy of Thomas Augustsson, Vitali Khaletski, Cleo Phas, Albert Vokhmin, and Александр Чижевский.
Romania new date (2016) 100-leu note (B283g) confirmed
06 07, 2016 11:18
Like P121, but new date (2016).
Courtesy of Costing Iorgu (http://www.banknotesworldshop.com), Marian Alionte, and Daniel Mendea.
European Monetary Union new 50-euro note (B111) unveiled
05 07, 2016 07:13
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.
Royal Bank of Scotland new sig/date (31.01.2016) 20-pound note confirmed
01 07, 2016 11:22
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
17 06, 2016 11:48
According to a press release dated 16 June 2016, the European Central Bank plans to unveil the new Europa series 50-euro banknote on 5 July 2016, with introduction into circulation in the first half of 2017.
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new sig/date (16.08.2015) 50-pound note confirmed
17 06, 2016 11:10
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
07 06, 2016 10:44
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
02 06, 2016 08:20
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
27 05, 2016 11:43
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
04 05, 2016 11:42
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
25 04, 2016 11:36
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
22 04, 2016 15:48
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
21 04, 2016 08:35
According to the Narodowy Bank Pokski's prospectus for 2016, in April 2016 the bank planned to introduce 30,000 pieces of a 20-zlotych banknote commemorating the 1,050th anniversary of the “Baptism of Poland,” when King Miezko I and the majority of his court were baptized in 966 AD.
The bank has more recently posted a notice on its site indicating that up to 35,000 pieces of the note will be introduced on 12 April 2016.
BNP820 (PNL): 20 złotych (US$6.55)
Blue and red. Front: Coat of arms with crowned eagle; Dobrawa (Doubravka of Bohemia) and King Miezko I; ornate cross; floor plan of church as registration device. Back: Floor plan of church; Gniezno Cathedral; royal chalice of Trzemeszno. Windowed security thread with demetalized NBP 20. Watermark: Unknown with electrotype 20. Printer: (PWPW). 144 x 77 mm.
a. 23 LISTOPADA 2015. Signature 17. Prefix AB. Intro: 12.04.2016.
Courtesy of Jan Bogus and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
The bank has more recently posted a notice on its site indicating that up to 35,000 pieces of the note will be introduced on 12 April 2016.
BNP820 (PNL): 20 złotych (US$6.55)
Blue and red. Front: Coat of arms with crowned eagle; Dobrawa (Doubravka of Bohemia) and King Miezko I; ornate cross; floor plan of church as registration device. Back: Floor plan of church; Gniezno Cathedral; royal chalice of Trzemeszno. Windowed security thread with demetalized NBP 20. Watermark: Unknown with electrotype 20. Printer: (PWPW). 144 x 77 mm.
a. 23 LISTOPADA 2015. Signature 17. Prefix AB. Intro: 12.04.2016.
Courtesy of Jan Bogus and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Romania new date (2016) 50-leu note (B282f) confirmed
20 04, 2016 09:22
Like P120, but new date (20)16.
Courtesy of Alexandru Mocanu.
Ukraine new sig/date (2015) 10-hryvnia note (B848d) confirmed
13 04, 2016 14:52
B848d: Like B848c, but new date (2015) and new signature (Valeriia O. Gontareva). Prefix XГ.
Courtesy of Svitlana Romashko.
Ukraine new 500-hryvnia note (B855) confirmed
13 04, 2016 14:38
According to a press release dated 25 December 2015, on 11 April 2016 the National Bank of Ukraine introduced a new 500-hryvnia note with enhanced security features, including windowed security thread and SPARK patch.
B855 (PNL): 500 гривень (hryven) (US$23)
Beige, brown, green, blue, and pink. Front: Philosopher, poet, writer, pedagogue, and musician Hryhorii Skovoroda; coat of arms; fountain; open book with quill as gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Mohyla Academy building in Kiev; academy seal. Motion windowed security thread with demetalized 500. Solid security thread with demetalized 500 ГРН and trident. Watermark: Hryhorii Skovoroda and electrotype hyrvnia symbol (backwards S with two horizontal bars). Printer: (NBU). 154 x 75 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 9. Intro: 11.04.2016.
Courtesy of Svitlana Romashko.
B855 (PNL): 500 гривень (hryven) (US$23)
Beige, brown, green, blue, and pink. Front: Philosopher, poet, writer, pedagogue, and musician Hryhorii Skovoroda; coat of arms; fountain; open book with quill as gold-to-green SPARK patch. Back: Mohyla Academy building in Kiev; academy seal. Motion windowed security thread with demetalized 500. Solid security thread with demetalized 500 ГРН and trident. Watermark: Hryhorii Skovoroda and electrotype hyrvnia symbol (backwards S with two horizontal bars). Printer: (NBU). 154 x 75 mm.
a. 2015. Signature 9. Intro: 11.04.2016.
Courtesy of Svitlana Romashko.
Switzerland new 50-franc note confirmed
13 04, 2016 14:36
According to a press release dated 6 April 2016, the Swiss National Bank has unveiled the design of the new 50-franc note, the first denomination in a new series of notes inspired by the theme "The many facets of Switzerland." The new family consists of the same denominations as the existing family, but the notes are reduced in size for easier handling. The 50-franc note measuring 70 x 137 mm was introduced on 12 April 2016.
"Each denomination depicts a typically Swiss characteristic, which is then illustrated graphically using a range of elements. The 50-franc note focuses on the wealth of experiences Switzerland has to offer – expressed by the wind, the note’s key motif. Core design elements in the new series are the hand and the globe, which appear on every denomination."
"The new notes were designed by Manuela Pfrunder and printed by Orell Füssli Security Printing Ltd using an innovative, three-layer banknote substrate. The combination of complex security features and sophisticated design provides state-of-the-art anti-counterfeiting protection. The new series equips Switzerland with banknotes that are both more modern and more secure than the previous generation.
The next denomination, the 20-franc note, will be issued in spring 2017. The remaining notes in the series will be issued subsequently at half-yearly or yearly intervals. The SNB will announce each new issue date well in advance. Issuance of the entire series is scheduled to be completed by 2019."
Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Manfred Wolfensberger, Christof Zellweger, Antje Bird, Marco Pache, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
"Each denomination depicts a typically Swiss characteristic, which is then illustrated graphically using a range of elements. The 50-franc note focuses on the wealth of experiences Switzerland has to offer – expressed by the wind, the note’s key motif. Core design elements in the new series are the hand and the globe, which appear on every denomination."
"The new notes were designed by Manuela Pfrunder and printed by Orell Füssli Security Printing Ltd using an innovative, three-layer banknote substrate. The combination of complex security features and sophisticated design provides state-of-the-art anti-counterfeiting protection. The new series equips Switzerland with banknotes that are both more modern and more secure than the previous generation.
The next denomination, the 20-franc note, will be issued in spring 2017. The remaining notes in the series will be issued subsequently at half-yearly or yearly intervals. The SNB will announce each new issue date well in advance. Issuance of the entire series is scheduled to be completed by 2019."
Courtesy of Claudio Marana, Manfred Wolfensberger, Christof Zellweger, Antje Bird, Marco Pache, and Hartmut Fraunhoffer (Banknote-Online).
Russia new 200- and 2,000-ruble notes reported for late 2017 introduction
12 04, 2016 10:12
According to a press release dated 12 April 2016, the Bank of Russia plans to introduce new 200- and 2,000-ruble notes by the end of 2017. These entirely new denominations are expected to enhance the convenience of cash payments, and will save time when paying for goods and services.
The current Russian banknotes depict the characters of Russian cities and regions, and this tradition will continue with the new notes, but for the first time the Russian public will get to vote on the new designs in the summer of 2016.
Courtesy of Artem Shevchenko and Alexander Petrov.
The current Russian banknotes depict the characters of Russian cities and regions, and this tradition will continue with the new notes, but for the first time the Russian public will get to vote on the new designs in the summer of 2016.
Courtesy of Artem Shevchenko and Alexander Petrov.
Moldova national bank appoints new governor as of 11.03.2016
20 03, 2016 11:19
Sergiu Cioclea has been named the new governor of the National Bank of Moldova effective 11 March 2016.
Courtesy of Alex Klark.
Courtesy of Alex Klark.
Guernsey new signature 1-pound note confirmed
15 03, 2016 09:37
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
12 03, 2016 16:16
According to a press release dated 10 March 2016, the Bank of England will unveil the design of the new polymer 5-pound banknote on 2 June 2016. The note will be introduced in September 2016, and the existing paper 5-pound note will be gradually withdrawn thereafter. The polymer 10-pound note featuring Jane Austen will be introduced in late 2017 and a new polymer 20-pound note will be introduced by 2020.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Scotland announces scientist Mary Somerville to appear on new 10-pound note
22 02, 2016 13:30
According to an article in The Guardian dated 10 February 2016, the new polymer 10-pound note scheduled to issued in 2017 by the Royal Bank of Scotland will feature a portrait of scientist Mary Somerville, making her the first woman other than a royal to appear on an RBS banknote.
Courtesy of Mark Irwin and David Hunter.
Courtesy of Mark Irwin and David Hunter.
Challenge: Identify statue on Northern Ireland notes
20 02, 2016 14:30
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
12 02, 2016 11:24
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
02 02, 2016 10:47
According to a press release dated 31 January 2015, "Royal Bank of Scotland has named three Scottish scientists, two men and one woman, on the shortlist of candidates to appear on its first plastic 10 pound note.
The three are physicist James Clerk Maxwell, Mary Somerville, the first female member of the Royal Astronomical Society, and civil engineer Thomas Telford, known as the "Colossus of Roads".
More than 400 people took part in the selection of the 128 nominees, who had to be Scottish historical figures or people who had made a major contribution to Scotland in science and innovation.
Maxwell (1831-1879), a hero of Albert Einstein, discovered the unified theory of electricity and magnetism.
Somerville (1780-1872) was a pioneer as a female scientist when women’s participation was discouraged. Her writings ultimately led to the discovery of the planet Neptune.
Telford (1757-1843) built more than 1,000 miles of roads in his lifetime and in Scotland designed harbors, tunnels and the Caledonian Canal.
The decision on who to put on new banknotes can be controversial. The Bank of England was criticized in 2013 for the removal of the only female figure on its notes, social reformer Elizabeth Fry. Novelist Jane Austen was subsequently chosen to appear on new 10 pound notes."
The three are physicist James Clerk Maxwell, Mary Somerville, the first female member of the Royal Astronomical Society, and civil engineer Thomas Telford, known as the "Colossus of Roads".
More than 400 people took part in the selection of the 128 nominees, who had to be Scottish historical figures or people who had made a major contribution to Scotland in science and innovation.
Maxwell (1831-1879), a hero of Albert Einstein, discovered the unified theory of electricity and magnetism.
Somerville (1780-1872) was a pioneer as a female scientist when women’s participation was discouraged. Her writings ultimately led to the discovery of the planet Neptune.
Telford (1757-1843) built more than 1,000 miles of roads in his lifetime and in Scotland designed harbors, tunnels and the Caledonian Canal.
The decision on who to put on new banknotes can be controversial. The Bank of England was criticized in 2013 for the removal of the only female figure on its notes, social reformer Elizabeth Fry. Novelist Jane Austen was subsequently chosen to appear on new 10 pound notes."
Denmark new date (2015) 100-krone note (B936d) confirmed
25 01, 2016 10:56
B936d: Like B936c, but new date (2015) and new prefix B2.
Courtesy of Frede Hansen.
Norway unveils designs of new "The Sea" note family
24 01, 2016 09:25
On 7 October 2014, Norges Bank (Norway’s central bank) presented the results of its ongoing banknote competition. The new theme will be “The Sea.” A press release revealed the proposed design for the 100-kroner note. The first notes from the new series are not expected to be issued until 2017 at the earliest.
Subsequently on 3 February 2015, Norges Bank unveiled the designs for the remaining denominations. The fronts of the notes will be developed on the basis of the proposal from The Metric System and Terje Tønnessen. The backs of the notes will be the pixel motifs submitted by Snøhetta Design. Please note that the designs of the finished notes may deviate somewhat from the competition proposals as shown below.
On each obverse side, the designer has placed a signal flag from the maritime alphabet. The flags represent the letters N, O, R, G and E and therefore spell either NORGE or NOREG (not in order by denomination).
The cubic patterns on the reverse side represent pixels and mosaics. The patterns depict the coast, the horizon and the motif. The organic pattern is an abstraction of the sea. Both the cubic and organic patterns follow the Beaufort scale as an expression of wind speed. This affects the waves in the sea. On the lowest denomination note, the wind is light, and there are short cubic forms and long, gentle waves in the organic pattern. On the highest denomination note, the wind is strong and creates elongated rectangular forms and short waves.
Motif: Utvær Lighthouse in Sogn og Fjordane, Norway's westernmost point. Signal flag: Letter R.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Lighthouse on the horizon. Cubic pattern: 1.6 metres per second (m/s). Organic pattern: Light breeze, gentle waves.
Motif: The Gokstad ship from the 800s, with the Norwegian-designed X-Bow hull developed by Ulstein Design & Solutions AS in the background. Signal flag: Letter O.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Cargo ship. Cubic pattern: 3.4 m/s. Organic pattern: Gentle breeze. Crests begin to break.
Motif: Cod and herring. The background drawing shows mesh from a fishing net. Signal flag: Letter N.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Fishing boat. Cubic pattern: 8 m/s. Organic pattern: Fresh breeze. Wave heights of 1 m or more.
Colin Archer, boat design. Anders Beer Wilse, photographer. Linn Krogh Hansen, photographer.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Oil platform. Cubic pattern: 13.9 m/s. Organic pattern: High wind. Sea heaps up, white foam from breaking waves.
Motif: Wave in the sea. Signal flag: Letter E.
Pixel motif: Horizon. Cubic pattern: 20.8 m/s. Organic pattern: Strong gale. High waves. Dense foam is blown along wind direction.
Courtesy of Josema Peso.
Subsequently on 3 February 2015, Norges Bank unveiled the designs for the remaining denominations. The fronts of the notes will be developed on the basis of the proposal from The Metric System and Terje Tønnessen. The backs of the notes will be the pixel motifs submitted by Snøhetta Design. Please note that the designs of the finished notes may deviate somewhat from the competition proposals as shown below.
On each obverse side, the designer has placed a signal flag from the maritime alphabet. The flags represent the letters N, O, R, G and E and therefore spell either NORGE or NOREG (not in order by denomination).
The cubic patterns on the reverse side represent pixels and mosaics. The patterns depict the coast, the horizon and the motif. The organic pattern is an abstraction of the sea. Both the cubic and organic patterns follow the Beaufort scale as an expression of wind speed. This affects the waves in the sea. On the lowest denomination note, the wind is light, and there are short cubic forms and long, gentle waves in the organic pattern. On the highest denomination note, the wind is strong and creates elongated rectangular forms and short waves.
Motif: Utvær Lighthouse in Sogn og Fjordane, Norway's westernmost point. Signal flag: Letter R.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Lighthouse on the horizon. Cubic pattern: 1.6 metres per second (m/s). Organic pattern: Light breeze, gentle waves.
Motif: The Gokstad ship from the 800s, with the Norwegian-designed X-Bow hull developed by Ulstein Design & Solutions AS in the background. Signal flag: Letter O.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Cargo ship. Cubic pattern: 3.4 m/s. Organic pattern: Gentle breeze. Crests begin to break.
Motif: Cod and herring. The background drawing shows mesh from a fishing net. Signal flag: Letter N.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Fishing boat. Cubic pattern: 8 m/s. Organic pattern: Fresh breeze. Wave heights of 1 m or more.
Colin Archer, boat design. Anders Beer Wilse, photographer. Linn Krogh Hansen, photographer.
Pixel motif on the horizon: Oil platform. Cubic pattern: 13.9 m/s. Organic pattern: High wind. Sea heaps up, white foam from breaking waves.
Motif: Wave in the sea. Signal flag: Letter E.
Pixel motif: Horizon. Cubic pattern: 20.8 m/s. Organic pattern: Strong gale. High waves. Dense foam is blown along wind direction.
Courtesy of Josema Peso.
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 10-pound polymer note unveiled
24 01, 2016 08:46
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
21 01, 2016 15:49
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
10 01, 2016 20:32
According to a press release dated 3 November 2015, the National Bank of Georgia has unveiled designs of new 20-, 50-, and 100-lari banknotes to be introduced in February 2016. Designed by Bacha Malazonia, the notes have revised designs/colors/dimensions and security features enhanced with assistance from De La Rue (England), Giesecke & Devrient (Germany), and Oberthur Fiduciare (France), although the bank has not disclosed which firm actually printed the notes. The 5- and 10-lari notes will be upgraded “later.”
B256 (PNL): 20 lari (US$12)
Magenta. Front: Denomination as registration device; magenta-to-green SPARK ornament; publishing house; magazine Sakartvelos Moambe and newspaper Iveria; personal belongings, including lens, watch, pen, and inkpot; publisher Ilia Chavchavadze. Back: Panorama of old Tbilisi featuring the Narikala fortress; equestrian monument to King Vakhtang Gorgasali; map of Tbilisi in the 18th century (prepared by Vakhushti Batonishvili); coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with Ilia Chavchavadze, 20, phaeton (horse-drawn carriage), and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-gold windowed security thread with demetalized 20 ლარი. Watermark: Ilia Chavchavadze with electrotype 20 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 132 x 66 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.
B257 (PNL): 50 lari (US$30)
Green. Front: Denomination as registration device; green-to-gold SPARK ornament; cave monastery in Vardzia; King Tamar; XIII-century bas-relief from Pitareti Virgin Mari Monastery. Back: Astrological sign of Sagittarius from a Georgian miniature manuscript of the XII century; coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with King Tamar, 50, lari symbol, griffin, and map of Georgia. Magenta-to-green windowed security thread with demetalized 50 ლარი. Watermark: King Tamar with electrotype 50 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 137 x 68 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.
B258 (PNL): 100 lari (US$59)
Violet. Front: Denomination as registration device; magenta-to-green SPARK ornament; poet Shota Rustaveli; VII-century bas-relief of biblical story “Daniel in the Den of Lions” from Martvili Cathedral of Assumption of the Virgin Mary; poem “The Knight in the Tiger Skin.” Back: Gas lamp post; the Zakaria Paliashvili Tbilisi State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet on Freedom Square in Tbilisi; coat of arms. Iridescent stripe. Holographic stripe with Shota Rustaveli, 100, lari symbol, flowers, and map of Georgia. Blue-to-red windowed security thread with demetalized 100 ლარი. Watermark: Shota Rustaveli with electrotype 100 and lari symbol. Printer: Unknown. 142 x 70 mm.
a. 2016. Signature 10. Prefix AA. Expected new issue in 2016.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas, Albert Vokhmin, and Malkhaz Shvelidze.
Russia new 100-ruble Crimea commemorative note (B832) confirmed
27 12, 2015 08:19
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.
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.
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
23 12, 2015 10:54
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
22 12, 2015 08:32
Like B278i, but new date (20)15.
Courtesy of Alexandru Mocanu.
Courtesy of Alexandru Mocanu.
Scotland's Bank of Scotland new 5-pound polymer commemorative note confirmed
18 12, 2015 11:55
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
14 12, 2015 22:56
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.
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.
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
Iceland chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
11 12, 2015 06:16
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
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Switzerland new 50-franc note to be introduced 12.04.2016
10 12, 2015 10:08
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.
Courtesy of Christof Zellweger.
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new sig/date (11.07.2015) 20-pound note confirmed
08 12, 2015 07:33
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.
Courtesy of Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk) and Derek Walker.
Courtesy of Pam West (http://britishnotes.co.uk) and Derek Walker.
European Monetary Union 20-euro note (B110) confirmed
28 11, 2015 14:53
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
25 11, 2015 10:56
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
16 11, 2015 12:53
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
11 11, 2015 16:01
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
05 11, 2015 09:07
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.
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.
Ukraine new sig/date (2015) 500-hryvnia note (B853d) confirmed
05 11, 2015 09:04
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
02 11, 2015 12:10
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
02 11, 2015 06:29
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
30 10, 2015 09:26
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
23 10, 2015 11:17
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
19 10, 2015 12:03
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
18 10, 2015 12:12
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
18 10, 2015 12:10
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
15 10, 2015 12:34
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
14 10, 2015 21:45
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
12 10, 2015 10:50
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
12 10, 2015 10:41
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
12 10, 2015 10:16
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.
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
11 10, 2015 10:54
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Paul Soboleff.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin and Paul Soboleff.
Republika Srpska chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
17 09, 2015 10:43
The Republika Srpska chapter of The Banknote Book is now available for individual sale and as a free download to subscribers.
This 8-page catalog covers notes issued by the Narodna Banka Srpske Republike Bosne I Hercegovine (National Bank of the Serbian Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina) from 1992 to 1993, and the Narodna Banka Republike Srpske (National Bank of the Serbian Republic) from 1993 to 1995. Published 18 September 2015.
Each chapter of The Banknote Book includes detailed descriptions and background information, full-color images, and accurate valuations. The Banknote Book also features:
- Sharp color images of note’s front and back without overlap
- Face value or date of demonetization if no longer legal tender
- Specific identification of all vignette elements
- Security features described in full
- Printer imprint reproduced exactly as on note
- Each date/signature variety assigned an individual letter
- Variety checkboxes for tracking your collection and want list
- Date reproduced exactly as on note
- Precise date of introduction noted when known
- Replacement note information
- Signature tables, often with names and terms of service
- Background information for historical and cultural context
- Details magnified to distinguish between note varieties
- Bibliographic sources listed for further research
Subscribe to The Banknote Book
If you collect the entire world or a large number of countries, buying a subscription is the best deal because it's less expensive than buying chapters individually, and it entitles you to every chapter currently available as well as everything published—or revised (click here to see the Change Log)—during the term of your subscription.
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Royal Bank of Scotland's new 5- and 10-pound notes to use DLR's Safegaurd polymer substrate
07 09, 2015 14:31
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.
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
07 09, 2015 09:53
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.
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
31 08, 2015 11:26
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
29 08, 2015 12:34
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.
2,000 sets of notes were sold in folders.
Courtesy of Paul Soboleff (www.fox-notes.ru) and Albert Vokhmin.
2,000 sets of notes were sold in folders.
Courtesy of Paul Soboleff (www.fox-notes.ru) and Albert Vokhmin.
Poland new 20-złoty commemorative note (BNP819) confirmed
27 08, 2015 08:10
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.
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).
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
21 08, 2015 14:15
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
20 08, 2015 13:13
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
14 08, 2015 11:34
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.
Courtesy of Max Keller.
Romania new date (2013) 200-leu note (B284e) confirmed
14 08, 2015 11:12
Romania new date (2015) 100-leu note (B283f) confirmed
14 08, 2015 11:11
Romania new date (2009) 50-leu note (B282e) confirmed
14 08, 2015 11:11
Northern Ireland chapter of The Banknote Book is now complete
06 08, 2015 12:11
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.
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.
How do you change a currency – fast?
06 07, 2015 14:53
"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.
Courtesy of James Cadman.
Sweden new date (2014) 100-kronor note confirmed
06 07, 2015 11:32
100 kronor, (201)4. Like P65, but new date.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Ukraine new signature 50-hryvnia note (B850f) confirmed
06 07, 2015 10:10
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
02 07, 2015 09:25
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
25 06, 2015 07:44
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
23 06, 2015 18:00
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
23 06, 2015 17:52
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.
Courtesy of Jan Bogus and many others.
Northern Ireland's Ulster Bank new sig/date (01.01.2013) 5-pound note confirmed
15 06, 2015 14:06
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
10 06, 2015 10:52
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)
04 06, 2015 10:22
5 euros, 2013. Like ECB B8, but prefix Y (Greece).
Courtesy of Takis Kouvatseas.
Romania new date (2014) 200-leu note (B284f) confirmed
04 06, 2015 09:49
Macedonia new sig/date (00.12.2013) 100-denar note (B208k) confirmed
03 06, 2015 12:26
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
31 05, 2015 20:34
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.
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
28 05, 2015 09:38
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.
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.
Isle of Man Paper Money
26 05, 2015 10:39
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
23 05, 2015 11:46
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
20 05, 2015 10:16
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.
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
20 05, 2015 09:24
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
12 05, 2015 10:04
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
07 05, 2015 17:58
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.
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.
Poland new numismatic product confirmed
29 04, 2015 18:52
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
20 04, 2015 18:00
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
20 04, 2015 14:33
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.
Sign up for Email Notifications
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Romania new date (2015) 200-leu note (B284g) confirmed
19 04, 2015 09:02
Like B284f, but new date (2015).
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Courtesy of Alex Zlotin.
Poland banknote numismatic product reported
14 04, 2015 11:08
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank new 5-pound polymer commemorative confirmed
31 03, 2015 12:03
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
27 03, 2015 14:13
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
20 03, 2015 13:59
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
20 03, 2015 13:51
10 pounds, 1st JANUARY 2014. Like P341, but new date. Prefix K.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Bank of Scotland new sig/date (19.01.2009) 5-pound note confirmed
19 03, 2015 09:38
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
12 03, 2015 16:50
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
10 03, 2015 10:36
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
04 03, 2015 16:05
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
24 02, 2015 09:39
Like B591a, but new date (2015).
Courtesy of Róbert Szajkó.
European Monetary Union new 20-euro note to be issued 25.11.2015
24 02, 2015 08:48
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
16 02, 2015 06:27
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
04 02, 2015 12:17
Like B279e, but new date (2013).
Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe.
Courtesy of Mihai Cristian Vulpe.
Switzerland new sig/date (2013) 10-franc note confirmed
26 01, 2015 13:00
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
22 01, 2015 12:39
Like B281e, but new date (2013).
Courtesy of Thomas Krause.
Courtesy of Thomas Krause.
Belarus new 500,000-ruble note under consideration
21 01, 2015 10:47
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
15 01, 2015 09:22
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.
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.
Switzerland new sig/date (2013) 10-franc note confirmed
09 01, 2015 09:38
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
01 01, 2015 14:12
500 kroner, (20)12. Like P68, but new date. Prefix A4.
Courtesy of Tristan Williams.
Courtesy of Tristan Williams.
Ukraine new 100-hryvnia note to be issued 09.03.2015
29 12, 2014 17:30
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
23 12, 2014 08:41
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
22 12, 2014 21:36
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.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Switzerland national bank governing board changes announced
20 12, 2014 09:00
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.
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
18 12, 2014 06:50
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
09 12, 2014 07:10
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.
Ukraine new signature 200-hryvnia note (B852e) confirmed
02 12, 2014 09:23
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
30 11, 2014 12:19
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
16 11, 2014 15:21
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
02 11, 2014 11:54
20 pounds, 1st JUNE 2009. Like P137, but new date.
Courtesy of "Peter" Shih, Yu-Yu.
Courtesy of "Peter" Shih, Yu-Yu.
Ukraine new signature 1- and 200-hryvnia notes to be issued December 2014
02 11, 2014 07:11
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.
Courtesy of Olexandr Danishenko.
Denmark to outsource note and coin production in 2016
28 10, 2014 13:10
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
19 10, 2014 10:34
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.
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
15 10, 2014 07:27
1 leu, 2013. Like B108, but new date.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.
Ukraine new sig/date (2014) 200-hryvnia note (B852d) confirmed
13 10, 2014 15:46
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
10 10, 2014 14:10
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
09 10, 2014 08:25
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
07 10, 2014 12:25
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
02 10, 2014 09:21
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.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Belarus 50-ruble notes to be withdrawn on 01.06.2015
30 09, 2014 10:21
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.
Courtesy of Albert Vokhmin.
Serbia new sig/date (2014) 1,000-dinar note confirmed
30 09, 2014 09:21
1,000 dinara (2014), like NBS B20, but new date and new signature (Jorgovanka Tabaković).
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
European Monetary Union new 10-euro note confirmed
23 09, 2014 21:46
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
20 09, 2014 14:21
20 francs, (20)12. Like P69, but new date and signatures (Studer/Danthine).
Courtesy of Manfred Wolfensberger.
Trans-Dniester new numismatic products confirmed
10 09, 2014 09:32
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
07 09, 2014 10:21
1,00 kroner, (20)12. Like P69, but new date. Prefix A5.
Courtesy of Frede Hansen.
Courtesy of Frede Hansen.
Albania arrests governor of central bank
07 09, 2014 09:59
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.
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
05 09, 2014 09:04
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
02 09, 2014 09:37
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
01 09, 2014 12:44
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
22 08, 2014 15:11
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.
Russia refuses to ban "pornographic" 100-ruble note
22 08, 2014 15:07
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
13 08, 2014 08:46
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).
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).
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
11 08, 2014 10:08
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
08 08, 2014 06:29
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.
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Ukraine new sig/date (2014) 50-hryvnia note (B850e) confirmed
05 08, 2014 08:31
50 hryven, 2014. Like B850d, but new date and new signatures.
Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov (http://www.worldbanknotes.t15.org).
Courtesy of Mykhaylo Kharytonov (http://www.worldbanknotes.t15.org).
Switzerland new sig/date (2012) 20-franc note confirmed
27 07, 2014 15:40
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
26 07, 2014 10:22
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.
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)
21 07, 2014 09:21
50 euros, 2002. Like ECB B4, but new signature (Mario Draghi) and prefix E (Slovakia).
Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.
Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.
European Monetary Union new signature 50-euro note with prefix G (Cyprus)
21 07, 2014 09:18
50 euros, 2002. Like ECB B4, but new signature (Mario Draghi) and prefix G (Cyprus).
Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.
Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.
European Monetary Union new signature 500-euro note with prefix N (Austria)
21 07, 2014 09:16
500 euros, 2002. Like ECB B7, but new signature (Mario Draghi) and prefix N (Austria).
Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.
Courtesy of Peter Lorenc.
Scotland's Royal Bank of Scotland new 5-pound Ryder Cup commemorative Hybrid note confirmed
18 07, 2014 15:57
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.
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.
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.
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
16 07, 2014 09:03
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."
"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
14 07, 2014 10:20
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.
Courtesy of Jan Boguś.
Switzerland's new franc series to be printed on Durasafe substrate
11 07, 2014 10:11
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.
Courtesy of Renzo Zbinden.
Romania new date (2014) 1-leu note (B278i) confirmed
08 07, 2014 10:41
Like B278h, but new date (2014).
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Romania new date (2014) 5-leu note (B279g) confirmed
08 07, 2014 10:41
Like B279f, but new date (2014).
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Northern Ireland Ulster Bank new date (01.01.2014) 20-pound note confirmed
06 07, 2014 15:42
20 pounds, 1st JANUARY 2014. Like P342b, but new date. Prefix L.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Switzerland new sig/date (2012) 20-franc note confirmed
05 07, 2014 08:40
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
03 07, 2014 20:30
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.
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.
Spain may create its own banknote printing facility to comply with ECB rules
03 07, 2014 07:29
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.
Courtesy of Cedrian.
Russia may issue Crimea commemorative note in 2014
03 07, 2014 07:19
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.
Courtesy of Cleo Phas.
Russia not planning polymer banknotes
24 06, 2014 12:27
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
22 06, 2014 10:20
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
12 06, 2014 08:44
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.
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.
European Monetary Union new signature 50-euro note confirmed for Slovenia
12 06, 2014 05:58
50 euros, 2002. Like ECB B4, but new signature (Draghi) and country code H (Slovenia).
Courtesy of Sev Onyshkevych.
Courtesy of Sev Onyshkevych.
Lithuania may adopt euro in 2015
05 06, 2014 09:18
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.
Courtesy of Jim "Rubycored" Chen.
Ukraine new sig/date (2014) 100-hryvnia note (B851c) confirmed
03 06, 2014 08:01
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
02 06, 2014 12:16
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
02 06, 2014 12:16
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
22 05, 2014 13:18
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.
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.
Scotland's Clydesdale Bank to issue new 5-pound polymer commemorative in 2015
22 05, 2014 12:12
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
16 05, 2014 11:54
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
15 05, 2014 07:09
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.
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
24 04, 2014 18:35
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.
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.
Belarus rumored to have printed new notes in advance of redenomination
16 04, 2014 15:22
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
08 04, 2014 16:37
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.
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.
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.
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
03 04, 2014 10:59
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
28 03, 2014 08:40
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
23 03, 2014 11:27
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
23 03, 2014 09:59
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
22 03, 2014 10:05
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
19 03, 2014 13:34
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
14 03, 2014 17:01
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
11 03, 2014 07:38
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
15 02, 2014 08:11
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
31 01, 2014 09:10
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).
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
30 01, 2014 08:44
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
13 01, 2014 22:10
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
01 01, 2014 14:15
20 pounds, 23rd MAY 2012. Like P354, but new date and signature (Stephen Hester).
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Courtesy of Claudio Marana.
Norway new sig/date (2013) 200-krone note confirmed
29 12, 2013 11:35
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
26 12, 2013 10:40
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.
Courtesy of Brian Lema.
Trans-Dniester new 25- and 100-ruble notes confirmed
19 12, 2013 12:09
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
18 12, 2013 08:26
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
11 12, 2013 07:49
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
10 12, 2013 07:20
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.
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.
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
02 12, 2013 07:53
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.
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
29 11, 2013 09:38
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
26 11, 2013 12:36
50 francs, (20)12. Like P71, but new date and signatures (Jean Studer and Fritz Zurbrügg).
50 francs, (20)12. Like P71, but new date and signatures (Jean Studer and Jean-Pierre Danthine).
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
26 11, 2013 12:32
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.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Danzig chapter of The Banknote Book is now available
21 11, 2013 21:57
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.
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.
Denmark new sig/date (2012) 200-krone note confirmed
11 11, 2013 13:43
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
11 11, 2013 10:13
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
06 11, 2013 14:45
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
05 11, 2013 13:32
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
25 10, 2013 15:02
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
23 10, 2013 08:11
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
22 10, 2013 07:54
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.
Courtesy of Aidan Work.
Denmark new sig/date (2013) 100-krone note confirmed
17 10, 2013 08:56
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
12 10, 2013 09:20
Like B814b, but new signature (Már Guðmundsson).
Courtesy of Werner Kober.
Scotland Clydesdale Bank new title/date (2013) 10- and 20-pound notes confirmed
08 10, 2013 14:06
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
29 09, 2013 14:37
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
29 09, 2013 14:11
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
27 09, 2013 08:40
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
25 09, 2013 08:26
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
24 09, 2013 16:20
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
11 09, 2013 10:03
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
11 09, 2013 09:58
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
03 09, 2013 08:08
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
02 09, 2013 09:48
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
29 08, 2013 22:53
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.
Sign up for Email Notifications
If you would like to receive email notifications whenever a new chapter of The Banknote Book is published, please join the email list by clicking the button below.
Moldova new sig/date (2013) 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-leu notes confirmed
15 08, 2013 06:14
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
08 08, 2013 09:17
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.
Poland to issue polymer numismatic product in 2014
29 07, 2013 08:25
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
24 07, 2013 09:12
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:
Courtesy of Anthony Rodov.
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
24 07, 2013 09:09
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
19 07, 2013 14:34
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.
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.
Book review: Coins and Banknotes of Yugoslavia, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia
13 07, 2013 09:26
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
10 07, 2013 08:02
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.
Courtesy of James Cadman.
Guernsey new 1-pound TDLR commemorative note confirmed
09 07, 2013 16:02
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
09 07, 2013 08:21
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
09 07, 2013 08:07
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
07 07, 2013 10:38
Scotland's Bank of Scotland new sig/date (01.19.2009) 20-pound note confirmed
02 07, 2013 08:56
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
28 06, 2013 08:10
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.
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.
Norway new sig/date (2012) 500-kroner note confirmed
25 06, 2013 16:33
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
25 06, 2013 16:25
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
23 06, 2013 14:51
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
19 06, 2013 13:26
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
05 06, 2013 08:02
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.
Courtesy of Dragan Peric.
Ukraine new sig/date (2013) 5-hryven note (B846d) confirmed
01 06, 2013 09:10
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
01 06, 2013 09:02
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
20 05, 2013 06:25
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
20 05, 2013 06:15
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).
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
07 05, 2013 08:31
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
02 05, 2013 08:02
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).