The Netherlands issued a series of banknotes between 1966 and 1972 featuring prominent Dutch historical figures. This series included four denominations:

5 guilders: Joost van den Vondel (poet and playwright)

10 guilders: Frans Hals (painter)

25 guilders: Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck (composer and organist)

100 guilders: Michiel de Ruyter (admiral)

1000 guilders: Baruch Spinoza (philosopher)

These notes were designed by R.D.E. Oxenaar and J.J. Kruit, showcasing a modern artistic style while honoring Dutch cultural icons. The series was notable for its vibrant colors and distinctive portraits, reflecting the nation’s rich artistic and maritime heritage. These banknotes remained in circulation until the introduction of the euro in 2002.

The final series of Deutsche Mark banknotes issued by West Germany was introduced in 1989-1990, just before German reunification. It consisted of six denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 marks. Each note featured a notable German cultural figure:

5 DM: Bettina von Arnim (writer)

10 DM: Carl Friedrich Gauss (mathematician)

20 DM: Annette von Droste-Hülshoff (poet)

50 DM: Balthasar Neumann (architect)

100 DM: Clara Schumann (composer)

200 DM: Paul Ehrlich (scientist)

These banknotes remained in circulation until the introduction of the euro in 2002.

Bettina von Arnim (1785-1859)

1995-1997 Issue

João de Barros

1963-1969 ND Issue

The banknotes issued by Singapore between 1984 and 1989 featured ships as their main theme, reflecting Singapore’s identity as a major port city.

The banknotes issued by Singapore from 1984 to 1989 featured birds as the main theme, highlighting the country’s tropical nature and rich biodiversity.

The banknotes issued by Singapore from 1967 to 1973 (ND) used various orchids as their main theme.

The France 1993-1997 series is truly captivating. These banknotes are a perfect fusion of France’s rich cultural tapestry, featuring legends like The Little Prince author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, master painter Paul Cézanne, the visionary Gustave Eiffel, and scientific pioneers Pierre and Marie Curie. Each note feels like a mini masterpiece, representing the best of French literature, art, architecture, and science.

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

The France Banknotes issued from 1968 to 1981 featured figures like Berlioz, Debussy, Maurice Quentin de la Tour, Delacroix, Montesquieu, and Pascal. These individuals represent the greatness of France in art and philosophy.

Berlioz