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Tonga Introduces New Series of Banknotes into Circulation

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The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) unveils new series of banknotes featuring Polymer substrates and enhanced security features. On December 4, the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) marked a significant milestone with the launch of Tonga's new series of banknotes. The chosen date for the release holds special significance as it commemorates the birthday of King Tupou I, a key modernizer who reigned from 1845 to 1893. Produced in collaboration with De La Rue, the new banknote series incorporates both paper and polymer substrates, introducing updated security elements to enhance durability and deter counterfeiting. This redesign represents Tonga's first use of polymer in its currency since 2015. The series comprises 2-, 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, and 100-pa’anga notes, with the colors remaining unchanged. Notably, the 5- and 10-pa’anga denominations have transitioned to polymer due to its proven durability, particularly for extensively circulated notes. With one pa’anga being e...

Bank Al-Maghrib Officially Releases New MAD 200 Banknote

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Morocco’s central bank, Bank Al-Maghrib, has officially declared the issuance of the new MAD 200 banknote. The announcement aligns with the commemoration of the 80th Independence Manifesto, marking the formal manifesto for independence in 1944. Issued under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, the new MAD 200 banknote aims to showcase Morocco’s economic and industrial progress. On the front, the banknote features the portrait of King Mohammed VI, accompanied by the striking image of the Mohammed VI bridge. Turning to the reverse side, the banknote highlights the construction of the Mohammed VI Tower and the Marrakech Menara International Airport. It also pays homage to Morocco’s industrial development and advancements in digital technology. Bank Al-Maghrib emphasized that the new banknote incorporates state-of-the-art security features, including a "three-dimensional dynamic security thread," color-changing magnetic ink, and front and back registration patterns, along with pro...

Inspiring Banknote Collection: Cricket and Its Players

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Paper money collectors often focus on a specific nation or even a particular series. This column is designed to offer ideas for building a collection of notes from around the world centered on a cricket theme. While cricket stands as the most popular sport globally, engaging approximately a quarter of the planet's population as fans, it's interesting to note that there are relatively fewer banknotes featuring both its players and the sport. Exploring this niche can add a unique dimension to your collection, capturing the essence of a sport cherished by millions worldwide. Consider seeking out these distinctive banknotes to enrich your collection and showcase the diverse ways in which cricket is celebrated across different cultures and regions. Most of the $5 banknotes from Barbados feature the bust of Sir Frank Worrell on the obverse. However, the banknotes issued in the 2013 series showcase the 3Ws Oval cricket field in Barbados on the reverse side, honoring three leg...

Unissued Somali Banknotes: A Tale of Printing, Postponement, and Civil Unrest

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In the early 2010s, Somalia’s Transitional Federal Government commissioned the printing of a new family of banknotes in Sudan, presumably by Sudan Currency Printing Press, the state printer.  By 2013, Somalia’s new federal government announced the postponement of the introduction of these notes until an unspecified later date, pending the strengthening of financial institutions in Somalia. It remains unclear if Sudan had printed any notes for Somalia during this period. An article on Hiiraan Online dated June 13, 2018, stated that Bashir Isse Ali, the governor of the Somalia Central Bank, revealed that the government, in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund, was preparing to spend $41 million to print new 5,000-, 10,000-, 20,000-, and 50,000-shilling notes with advanced security features. In earlier interviews, he mentioned that 1,000- and 2,000-shilling notes were also under consideration. According to a Hiiraan Online article dated March 20, 2021, Abdusalam Omer Had...

Netherlands to Honour Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp

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Dennis Bergkamp, the iconic former Arsenal and Netherlands forward, is set to receive a distinctive tribute from the Netherlands. One of his most memorable goals will be featured on a new banknote in the country. Renowned as the linchpin of Arsenal during his illustrious 11-year tenure, Bergkamp is now poised to have his legendary goal immortalized on the new banknote. Since his arrival at Arsenal in 1995, he recorded an impressive tally of 315 goals in 315 matches across various competitions. His contributions were pivotal in securing three Premier League titles (including an unbeaten season), clinching four FA Cup victories, and guiding the team to the 2006 UEFA Champions League final. As reported by Olt Sports, the Dutch treasury has commissioned the Royal Enschede Company, their official currency minting entity, to produce a distinct eight-euro banknote. This unique currency will showcase Bergkamp adorned in the iconic Dutch jersey from the 1998 World Cup and capture the unforgetta...

Sir Vivian Richards on $2 Banknote for ECCB's 40th Anniversary

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In honor of the esteemed West Indian cricketer Sir Vivian Richards, a commemorative $2 banknote featuring the image of the former batting star has been produced and is set to circulate throughout Eastern Caribbean countries. Starting on December 6, these notes will be available at banks across the Eastern Caribbean. The tribute currency was unveiled during an event marking the 40th anniversary of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank in Antigua, Sir Vivian Richards’ birthplace. Meanwhile, Sir Vivian Richards expressed his gratitude for the recognition. “To be honored in such a manner is something dreams are made of,” Richards stated, as reported by islandpressbox.com. He was presented with the inaugural $2 bill featuring his likeness. Camillo Gonsalves, Chairman of the ECCB Monetary Council, emphasized that individuals prioritizing financial gain over representing West Indies or enhancing West Indies Cricket may not attain the same level of success or stature as Sir Vivian. The front of t...

Cayman Islands Unveils 70-Dollar Banknote of QE II's Platinum Jubilee

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The Cayman Islands has recently announced the release of a special commemorative banknote, with a face value of 70 dollars, to mark the one-year anniversary of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. This unique banknote is also a tribute to the remarkable Platinum Jubilee of the beloved queen. On the obverse side, the banknote elegantly showcases the Cayman Islands Coat of Arms and the Royal Cipher of Queen Elizabeth II, symbolizing her reign from 1952 to 2022. The reverse side of the note is adorned with three different portraits of Her Majesty, including a poignant depiction of her historic visit to the Cayman Islands in 1983. These images pay homage to her enduring connection with the people of the Cayman Islands. It's worth noting that this special banknote, printed by De La Rue, will not enter general circulation. Only 10,000 of these commemorative notes have been produced. Stay tuned for more information on how to obtain one for your collection. This unique piece serves as a last...

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