Paper Money Book

Ukraine new 20 hryvnia banknote

“We will note forget! We will not forgive!” – commemorates “Ukraine’s struggle against the Russian invaders and celebrates the fortitude, resilience, indomitability, and heroism of Ukrainians.” It was issued on the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It is considered legal tender, but is sold at a premium to face value.

 

This banknote of 20 hryvnia (hryven) (US$0.71; €0.61), P-136 and BNP812 is printed by the National Bank of Ukraine. It features a vertical design, using colors such as blue, purple, yellow, red, green, brown, and black. The front side displays both English and Ukrainian text, the national coat of arms, and flags of allies including the United Kingdom, European Union, United States, and Canada. Additionally, it showcases a photo taken by Oleksandr Smirnov of three Ukrainian soldiers wearing uniforms and hoisting the Ukrainian state flag.

The note also includes a fragment of the map of Ukraine, a stylized steppe with poppies representing Ukraine’s fallen defenders, a laurel wreath, the hryvnia symbol, the logotype of the National Bank of Ukraine, the shoulder patch and emblem of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, and the national coat of arms as a registration device.

On the back of the banknote, there is Ukrainian text and the national coat of arms as a registration device. It also features outlines of destroyed houses, a crown of thorns, a guilder rose, and an anti-tank hedgehog as the SPARK device. Additionally, there is a depiction of hands tied behind a person’s back, and stylized poppies representing bullet wounds.

The note includes a 12-mm wide security thread and a watermark of an electrotype coat of arms on leaves and grapes. The banknote, which measures 80 x 165 mm and is printed on paper, has no date and bears the signature of Pyshnyy. It comes in two variations: one sold in souvenir packaging with an introduction of 200,000 notes on February 23, 2023, and the other in an envelope, with 99,900 notes available.

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Ukraine new 500 hryvnia banknote

“300th Anniversary of Birth of Skovoroda” Commemorative Issue

 

The National Bank of Ukraine has recently introduced a new banknote, valued at 500 hryven (US$17.68; €15.20), in commemoration of the 300th anniversary of the birth of Hryhorii Skovoroda. The note features a beige, brown, and green color scheme, with dimensions of 154 x 75 mm.

The front of the note showcases the 300th anniversary logo in OVI, along with an image of Skovoroda playing the violin. A golden-to-green SPARK adorns the open book with a quill. On the back, an equilateral triangle with an eye at its center can be seen, as well as the Mohyla Academy building in Kiev.

To ensure security, the note is equipped with a motion windowed security thread and a solid security thread, both of which feature the demetalized 500 ГРН and trident. The printer responsible for this beautiful banknote is the Banknote Printing and Minting Works of the National Bank of Ukraine (Ukraine) – BPMWU.

A watermark of Skovoroda and an electrotype 500 is also included, along with the signature of Kyrylo Yevhenovych Shevchenko. The banknote was dated in 2021 and introduced on 29.12.2022, and is sure to be a prized possession among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

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Poland new 20 zloty banknote

“550th Anniversary of birth of Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-2023)” Commemorative issue

The new banknote of Poland features a beautiful combination of green, blue, red, and brown colors. The front of the banknote includes a coat of arms with a crowned eagle, a stylized quadrant and a fragment of the heliocentric system, and a portrait of Nicolaus Copernicus. The Polish text on the front of the note adds to its cultural significance.

The back of the note also features Polish text and showcases the obverse and reverse of the Gdańsk szóstak (six grosz), the obverse of the Elbląg szóstak (six grosz), and the obverse of the Prussian (Toruń) schilling. The fragment of the heliocentric system and the Castle of Warmian Cathedral Chapter in Olsztyn add to the note’s historical significance.

This banknote does not have a security thread and does not include a watermark. It is printed by PWPW S.A., measures 150 x 77 mm, and is made of polymer. The note has a date of 7 KWIETNIA 2022, and it is signed by Glapinski/Jaroszek with a prefix MK. There are 100,000 notes in circulation, with an introduction date of 09.02.2023.

Overall, the new Polish banknote is a beautiful and historically significant addition to the country’s currency collection. It pays tribute to the rich culture and heritage of Poland, making it a valuable collectible for anyone interested in currency and history.

Read CCL Secure article.

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01-01-2023 Croatia enter in euro

European Union flag

Welcome Croatia to euro !

On 01-01-2023, Croatia officially entered the eurozone and adopted the euro as its currency. This was a significant step forward for the country, marking its integration into the European Union’s economic and monetary union.

Croatia had been preparing for this moment for several years, working to meet the necessary criteria for joining the eurozone. The transition to the euro is expected to bring many benefits, including increased economic stability and easier trade with other eurozone countries.

As Croatia enters this new phase, we extend a warm welcome to the country and its people. The euro is a symbol of unity and cooperation across Europe, and we are delighted to see Croatia join the other nations that use it as their currency.

We look forward to seeing the benefits that the euro will bring to Croatia and to watching the country continue to thrive as a member of the European Union. Congratulations and welcome to the euro, Croatia !

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United Kingdom King Charles banknotes

New banknotes with the portrait of King Charles III.

The Bank of England has revealed the design of the upcoming King Charles III banknotes, which are scheduled to be put into circulation in 2024. These banknotes will co-exist with the current polymer banknotes that feature a portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II, and will remain valid as legal tender.

The design of the King Charles III banknotes is based on the current polymer series, which was a collaborative effort between the Bank of England and De La Rue. The King’s image will feature prominently on the front of the banknotes, as well as in the transparent security window.

The new design is a continuation of the current series, and De La Rue will continue to produce sterling banknotes on behalf of the Bank of England. The banknotes will continue to be printed on the SAFEGUARD® polymer substrate, and both old and new notes will be in circulation at the same time.

Read CCL Secure article.

Read De La Rue article.

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Poland 20 zloty banknote

“Defense of the Polish Eastern Border” commemorative issue

The 20 zloty (US$5.11; €4.40) banknote, P-196; BNP826 is colored in shades of brown and grey and measures 150 x 77 mm.

On the front of the note, you will see two border guard soldiers dressed in camouflage uniforms and holding binoculars and assault rifles. The coat of arms with a crowned eagle and a fighter jet as a registration device can also be seen. The map of Poland’s eastern border and denomination in SPARK Live is also featured.

On the back of the note, there is a Black Hawk helicopter flying low over a village, and a fighter jet is used as a registration device. The coat of arms with a crowned eagle is also present.

To ensure its security, the banknote has a green-and-gold windowed security thread. Polska Wytwórnia Papierów Wartościowych S.A. (PWPW) printed the note. The watermark features the bank logo with an electrotype NBP.

The banknote was dated 18 STYCZNIA 2022 and has the prefix RP. It was introduced for circulation on the 19th of July, 2022. The banknote quantity was limited to 80,000. The signatures of Adam Glapiński and Barbara Jaroszek are on the note.

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Belarus 100 ruble banknote

The banknote features Radzivil castle located in Nyesvizh, which is in the Minsk district, on the front side. On the back side, there is a collage on the theme of theater and folk holidays, featuring a violin.

It has a security thread with a holographic windowed security thread that has demetalized Br100. The printer of the banknote is the Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak” from Russia (FGU). The watermark on the banknote depicts Radziwills’ Castle and an electrotype 100.

The banknote was introduced on July 1st, 2016, and has a date of 2022. There is no signature present on the banknote, and its prefix includes ЕА, ЕВ, ЕК, ЕМ; EH (which has been in circulation since 2018). In case of a replacement, the banknote features a serial prefix of # XX.

It is worth noting that the banknote is part of the Honor region and is associated with Minsk.

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Russia 100 ruble banknote

100 Rubles (US$1.28; €1.10) P-A276; B-834 Color: Yellow Dimensions: 150 x 65 mm

The obverse side of the banknote exhibits a vibrant design. It prominently features the main building of Moscow State University, an iconic symbol of higher education in Russia. Adjacent to it is the Spasskaya Tower of the Moscow Kremlin, known for its striking appearance and the chimes that resonate through the city. Another notable landmark depicted on the banknote is the Zaryadye concert hall, accompanied by a floating bridge. The engineering marvel of the Ostankino Tower is also showcased, symbolizing technological advancements. Additionally, a QR-code is incorporated as part of the design, representing the integration of modern technology in currency.

On the reverse side of the banknote, a solemn scene unfolds, paying tribute to the Rzhev Memorial to the Soviet Soldier in the Rzhevsky District of Tver Oblast. This memorial honors the sacrifice of soldiers who fought during the Second World War. Above the memorial, birds in flight symbolize freedom and peace. The banknote further presents an aerial view of the Russian countryside, showcasing the nation’s diverse landscapes. A map of Russia serves as a reminder of the country’s vast territory and rich cultural heritage.

To ensure its authenticity and security, the banknote is equipped with several features. A 2-mm wide windowed security thread runs through the note, displaying demetalized “100” and “₽” (the symbol for the Russian ruble). These elements help in detecting counterfeit notes. Additionally, a watermark featuring the Spasskaya Tower and an electrotype “100” adds an extra layer of security.

The banknote is printed by the Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” which is the official printing works of the Russian government, responsible for producing banknotes and security documents.

The banknote is dated 2022 and is expected to be introduced into circulation in the same year. Banknotes with the prefix “AA” will likely be among the first released.

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Czech Rep 100-Koruna commemorative banknote


The 100 Korun banknote (US$4.29 or €3.69) P-30 and BNP102, features a vibrant yellow hue and boasts dimensions of 194 x 84 mm. On its front side, the note showcases the illustrious figure of Karel Engliš alongside the imposing façade of the Czech National Bank. Adding to its allure, a holographic medal graces the note, bearing the profile of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, while an eagle soars in the background.

Turning to the reverse side, the banknote captivates with a depiction of the Clam-Gallas palace in Prague, its grand façade taking center stage. Flanking the palace’s beauty, two intricate sculptures of Atlants stand as a testament to artistic craftsmanship. To ensure its security, the banknote incorporates a solid security thread that features demetalized inscriptions of the years 1880 to 1981, interspersed with delicate flowers.

A watermark of Karel Engliš, accompanied by an electrotype flower and the numeral 100, further reinforces the note’s authenticity. The meticulous craftsmanship of this banknote is attributed to the esteemed Státní Tiskárna Cenin in Prague, Czech Republic (STC).

Marked with the date of issuance as March 30, 2022, the banknote bears the prefixes EQ and ET. A limited quantity of 20,000 pieces was produced, each bearing the signature of Jiří Rusnok – a symbol of its official validation. This intricately designed banknote stands as a testament to the rich history and culture of the Czech Republic, celebrating its remarkable figures and landmarks in a tangible form of art and value.

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Scotland new 100 Pounds banknote

The 100 Pounds banknote P-135, valued at US$127.45 or €109.57, is a tribute to both value and history. With dimensions of 153 x 81 mm and adorned in a vibrant green hue, this note embodies financial worth and pays homage to a significant figure.

The front of the banknote features a holographic foil stripe that showcases the image of ‘Dr. Flora Murray’ beneath the pediment of the Mound, alongside an adjoining thistle. A portrayal of Sir Walter Scott and the iconic Bank of Scotland building in Edinburgh add a touch of grandeur. The Spark® denomination numeral “100” contributes to the note’s visual appeal. Flipping the note, the back presents a poignant depiction of Dr. Flora Murray, commemorating her legacy. Female stretcher bearers and a soldier outside Covent Garden hospital evoke the spirit of sacrifice and care.

Security measures are strategically implemented, including a simulated security thread bearing the demetalized phrase “ONE HUNDRED.” Crafted by De La Rue in London, this note exemplifies precision in security printing. Although a watermark is absent, the design incorporates advanced features to prevent counterfeiting.

Dated on the “16th August 2021” and introduced on May 9, 2022, this banknote marks a significant milestone. It honors the 100th Anniversary of the Death of Medical Pioneer and suffragette Flora Murray (1923-2023), a testament to her contributions to society.

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