The 50-krone note features Utvær Lighthouse, Norway’s westernmost point, built in 1900 in Solund municipality. Sea-marks like this have deep roots in Norwegian history, with the first dating back to 869, when Floke Vilgerdson constructed a cairn in Sveio. By 1770, Utvær became a pilot station, passing pilotage duties through generations. Lighthouses played a vital role along the Norwegian coast, especially in the 1800s, supporting the nation’s shipping and economy. The note also features an Atlantic puffin, whose image appears in the watermark across all denominations.

The reverse of the 50-krone note symbolizes a lighthouse light signal. Gentle winds are depicted through short rectangular shapes and soft wave patterns, while Ursa Major and a nautical chart marking lighthouse light sectors are visible. Norway’s coastline hosts over 21,000 lighthouses and sea-marks, forming a navigational network critical for trade, culture, and safe passage. While calm weather is depicted on the note, these beacons serve as steadfast guides in rough seas, ensuring secure navigation along Norway’s exposed shores.

The 100-krone note features the Gokstad ship, Norway’s largest preserved Viking ship, built around 900 AD. Found in 1880, it represents Norway’s long maritime heritage. In the background, a modern Norwegian bow design, X-BOW®, highlights the ongoing importance of innovation in coastal travel. From Viking Age voyages for trade, battle, and colonization to today’s global shipping industry, Norway’s coastal survival and growth have always depended on the sea. An Atlantic puffin appears in the upper-right corner and in the watermark, as with all denominations.

The reverse of the 100-krone note shows a cargo ship on the horizon, with a gentle breeze and cresting waves symbolized by rectangular patterns. A globe and parts of the Orion constellation are visible. Historically, shipping lanes connected the entire country to the coast, facilitating trade. Today, maritime industries remain vital to the Norwegian economy, with most imported goods still arriving by sea.

The 200-krone note features a cod, with herring and fishing net mesh in the background, symbolizing Norway’s long history with fishing. Around 11,000 years ago, the first settlers arrived seeking rich fishing waters, and by the Middle Ages, Norwegian cod became a key export. Cod and herring hold a legendary status in Norwegian culture, appearing in literature, art, and even coats of arms. The Atlantic puffin also appears in the upper-right corner and in the watermark, as on all denominations.

The reverse of the 200-krone note depicts a fishing boat on the horizon, with a fresh breeze and moderate waves symbolized by longer rectangular forms. Fishing nets and sea marks are also visible. Norway’s history and culture are deeply tied to the sea, with fish providing food, trade, and industry. From early fishing boats to modern trawlers and aquaculture, the sea has always sustained Norwegian life and progress.

The 500-krone note features the rescue vessel RS 14 “Stavanger,” designed by Colin Archer and launched in 1901. It served 37 years with Redningsselskapet, which operates rescue vessels across Norway’s coast. The note highlights the importance of sea rescue in saving lives and providing security for those working or traveling on the ocean. As with other denominations, an Atlantic puffin and the note’s value are incorporated into the watermark.

On the reverse, an oil platform appears on the horizon, with high winds and long rectangular shapes symbolizing strong waves. The design also shows the North Sea gas pipeline network and a fossil, reflecting Norway’s reliance on oil and gas for economic growth over the last 50 years. This industry, alongside traditional maritime activities, has fostered technological innovations and supported local communities.

The 1000-krone note features a wave, symbolizing the sea as both a counterforce and a driving force. The sea has been central to Norway’s prosperity and global connections for over a millennium. As new industries and technologies emerge, the sea remains key to the future, though climate change poses challenges. Continued marine research is essential for sustainable development. An Atlantic puffin appears in the watermark, as on other denominations.

The reverse shows the open sea with strong gales and piling waves, symbolized by long rectangular shapes. Two water molecules in liquid and solid states are also depicted. Norway’s maritime heritage has long driven its economic success, with the sea providing transport, food, energy, and inspiration. The ocean remains central to Norway’s future, offering both challenges and opportunities.

Portraits and animals (the 1972 series)

The obverse of the banknotes features portraits that were engraved on the basis of paintings by the Danish artist Jens Juel. The animals on the reverse were based on watercolours and drawings by the illustrator and architect Ib Andersen and Danmarks Nationalbank’s illustrator Gunnar Andersen. The banknotes in this series will no longer be legal tender after 31 May 2025.

Motifs: Cathrine Sophie Kirchhoff | Queen eider.

Motifs: Pauline Tutein | Sparrows.

Motifs: Engelke Charlotte Ryberg | Crucian carp

Motifs: Self-portrait of Jens Juel | ‘Red underwing’ moth.

Motifs: Unknown woman, probably Franziska Genoveva von Qualen | Lizard.

Motifs: Thomasine Heiberg | Squirrel.

The history of Polish banknotes is a journey full of drama and twists, much like the country itself. Poland’s geographical position has made it a focal point of wars and conflicts in European history, yet it has always fiercely maintained its cultural and economic independence. And the evolution of its banknotes is no exception—from the royal era to modern złoty, this little piece of currency reflects the nation’s struggle and revival.

Early Banknotes: Under Tsarist Rule and the First Attempts Poland as a nation disappeared from the map in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, divided between Russia, Prussia, and Austria. It wasn’t until after World War I that Poland regained its independence. Before this, banknotes were rare, with coins being the primary form of money. During the period of Russian control, the Russian Empire introduced banknotes in Poland, mostly to assert control over the region. But these weren’t what you’d call “true” Polish banknotes.

Independence and the Interwar Złoty In 1918, Poland regained its independence and established the Second Republic. This led to major monetary reform, and in 1924, Poland officially introduced its own currency—the złoty, which means “golden” in Polish. The name symbolized the nation’s desire for stability and prosperity. Early złoty banknotes were traditional and dignified, featuring important figures from Polish history, such as kings, generals, and cultural icons. These figures symbolized Polish national pride and the determination to rebuild from the ashes of war.

World War II and Underground Banknotes However, Poland’s independence didn’t last long. With the outbreak of World War II, Poland was once again caught in conflict, invaded by both Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. During the German occupation, official currency lost much of its value, but what’s fascinating is that Poland’s resistance movement printed its own underground banknotes. These notes were more than just a medium for economic exchange—they were a symbol of defiance against the occupiers. Though crudely made, they carried the hopes and dreams of a people yearning for freedom.

Post-War Socialist Period After World War II, Poland became a Soviet satellite state, entering the era of socialism. The People’s Republic of Poland was established in 1945, and with it came another round of currency reform. The złoty banknotes of this period were heavy with political imagery, often depicting symbols of socialism and workers. Gone were the kings and generals—now the notes featured peasants, factory workers, and Soviet leaders. The banknotes reflected Poland’s shift in political ideology under Soviet influence.

However, economic crises and high inflation plagued Poland throughout the Cold War. By the 1980s, the złoty had become almost worthless, with citizens needing entire bundles of notes just to buy basic goods. Even so, Polish pride remained, and the designs still carried a sense of national identity in a time of severe hardship.

Modern Poland: The Rebirth of the Złoty In 1989, Poland shifted from communist rule to a new era of democracy and market economy. A massive currency reform followed in 1995, introducing the new złoty (PLN), which replaced the old currency at a much higher value. The new złoty symbolized Poland’s economic recovery and modernization.

Today, Polish złoty banknotes are diverse and modern, no longer focused solely on politics or ideology. Instead, they celebrate Poland’s rich history and cultural heritage. For example, the 100-złoty note features King Sigismund I the Old, while the 50-złoty note showcases Nicolaus Copernicus, the great Polish scientist from the Enlightenment. These figures represent Poland’s significant contributions to science, art, and politics, and serve as a source of national pride.

The history of Polish banknotes mirrors the nation’s rise, fall, and eventual rebirth. From the golden dreams of the royal era to underground resistance during World War II, through socialist political shifts and finally to a modern rebirth, each banknote tells the story of a resilient people. Today’s Polish złoty is not just a symbol of economic stability but a continuation of Poland’s rich history and culture.

The history of Spanish banknotes is like a journey through time, taking us from the golden age of empire to the evolving face of modern finance. Among Europe’s many countries, Spain’s monetary evolution is tightly bound to its often tumultuous history. Though Spain once controlled vast colonies and hoarded treasures of gold and silver, its adoption of paper money followed a unique path, filled with trial and innovation.

A Late Arrival to Paper Money Despite Spain’s dominance in 16th-century Europe, it didn’t rush into using paper money. At the time, Spain was basking in the wealth flowing in from the Americas in the form of gold and silver, so coins remained the primary medium of exchange. While other European nations like Sweden and the Netherlands began experimenting with paper money as early as the 17th century, Spain didn’t formally issue paper notes until the 19th century.

It was during the Napoleonic Wars in 1812 that Spain’s temporary government first issued paper notes called “vales reales”. This was a wartime measure to fund the country’s expenses, but these early notes weren’t widely used and acted more as debt certificates than real currency. It wasn’t until 1874 that the Banco de España (Bank of Spain) began to officially issue standardized paper money, marking the true start of Spain’s paper currency history.

Royalty and Culture on Display From the late 19th century, Spain’s banknotes began to take on a more distinct style, incorporating historical figures and cultural symbols. Early banknotes often featured royal family members, famous explorers, and cultural icons. For example, Queen Isabella I, who famously supported Columbus’s voyage to the New World, graced the early 20th-century notes. Spain’s rich cultural heritage was also reflected in its currency, with Renaissance artists and iconic architecture frequently depicted on the bills.

By the mid-20th century, Spanish banknotes had become even more intricate and symbolic, particularly during the rule of Francisco Franco. Under Franco’s regime, banknotes often carried political messages, with imagery that reinforced the regime’s ideology. Franco’s likeness even appeared on several notes, emphasizing his cult of personality and the regime’s focus on national unity.

Turbulent Reforms and the Euro’s Arrival The Spanish economy saw significant upheaval throughout the 20th century, especially during the Civil War and the Franco dictatorship. Yet, the country’s banknote designs remained a vital part of Spanish identity. As Spain transitioned to democracy, its banknotes began to reflect a broader range of cultural symbols. By the 1980s, notes featured artists, architects, and scientists, like Francisco Goya, the famous painter, whose portrait adorned a note issued in 1979. During this period, the banknotes became more accessible and reflected a growing sense of national diversity.

In the late 1990s, as Spain prepared to adopt the euro, the peseta began to fade from daily use. Spaniards had a deep attachment to the peseta, which had been a part of their lives for nearly a century. When the euro officially replaced the peseta in 2002, Spain bid farewell to its distinct banknote designs and joined a broader, unified European monetary system.

Legacy of Art and Design Although Spain’s peseta banknotes have been replaced by the euro, the spirit of Spanish design hasn’t completely disappeared. Through the shared design of the euro, Spain has contributed its cultural influence to Europe’s currency. The imagery of architecture and bridges on euro notes symbolizes the connection between European nations, and traces of Spain’s architectural style can be seen in some of the designs. It’s a continuation of Spain’s long-standing history and artistic achievements.

The history of Spanish banknotes is a reflection of the country’s journey from an empire awash with gold coins to a modern economy in the heart of Europe. From royal symbols in the early days to culturally diverse designs in modern times, Spanish banknotes have always been part of the nation’s story. While Spaniards no longer use the peseta, the memory of these richly designed notes lives on, a testament to Spain’s history and transformation.

The history of Swiss banknotes, much like the nation itself, is one of unique style and precision. As a global financial powerhouse, Swiss currency has always been more than just a means of payment—it’s a blend of artistry and security. Switzerland, often hailed as the center of international banking, has carved out its own distinctive path in the history of banknote design and issuance.

Early Chaos and Unification Switzerland’s monetary history dates back to the Middle Ages, long before it became a unified nation. At the time, each canton (or state) had its own currency system, with local mints and banknotes. This reflected Switzerland’s tradition of local autonomy, and it wasn’t until the mid-19th century that real monetary unification began.

After the Swiss Confederation was formed in 1848, currency reform paved the way for a unified banknote system. In 1850, the Swiss franc was established as the official currency, and the first unified paper notes were issued in 1860. Interestingly, the earliest banknotes weren’t printed by the government but by private banks and local institutions. It wasn’t until 1907, with the founding of the Swiss National Bank (SNB), that a more centralized and standardized system took hold, bringing order to what had previously been a fragmented currency landscape.

Design: Where Science Meets Art Swiss banknotes are not just about money; they’re where art meets science. The designs of early 20th-century banknotes were conservative, reflecting Swiss society’s sense of order and seriousness. But over time, the designs became more modern and began incorporating themes that highlight Swiss culture, history, and natural beauty.

In the 1970s, Swiss banknote design took a bold new direction. The Swiss National Bank decided to shift the focus from political figures to cultural and scientific icons. Instead of statesmen, the notes now featured great minds from fields such as physics, architecture, and music. This was a departure from the traditional political-centric designs of most national currencies and underscored Switzerland’s impact in cultural and scientific achievements. For instance, the 50-franc note featured architect Le Corbusier, with the back of the note showcasing one of his iconic buildings, celebrating Switzerland’s contribution to modern architecture.

Modern Banknotes: A Benchmark for Security and Innovation Swiss banknotes are world-renowned not just for their beauty but also for their cutting-edge security features. In 2005, the SNB began designing a new series of notes, a project that took over a decade to complete. The new series, launched in 2016, represents one of the most advanced sets of banknotes in Swiss history, known as the Ninth Series.

The theme of the new notes is “The Many Facets of Switzerland,” emphasizing nature and science, with images of mountains, rivers, and modern technologies. For example, the 20-franc note highlights Switzerland’s rich cultural scene, drawing inspiration from Swiss cinema. The note even features a hand as a central element, symbolizing creativity. These new banknotes are packed with state-of-the-art security features, including UV ink, microtext, and intricate watermarks, making them nearly impossible to counterfeit.

Global Impact The Swiss franc holds a significant place in the global economy as a safe-haven currency. During times of global financial uncertainty, investors often turn to the Swiss franc as a secure investment. As a result, Swiss banknotes are not only widely used domestically but also seen as a reliable store of value internationally. Whether it’s their artistic design or unmatched security, Swiss banknotes set the global standard.

The evolution of Swiss banknotes reflects Switzerland’s journey from a patchwork of independent states to a unified financial powerhouse. Whether in the diversity of early designs or the modern notes’ cutting-edge security features, Swiss banknotes have always been at the forefront of global currency design. Behind each note lies a story of Swiss dedication to art, culture, science, and security.

The story of Italian banknotes is as rich and complex as the country’s history itself, full of artistic, political, and economic twists. From early city-states experimenting with currency, to the unified lira of the 19th century, and finally joining the Eurozone, Italy’s banknotes have always told the tale of a nation seeking balance and innovation.

Early Currency Chaos In Italy’s early history, paper money was not widely used, and coins dominated the economy. Different city-states like Venice, Florence, and Milan issued their own currencies, sometimes in competition, sometimes in isolation. This diversity reflected the political fragmentation of Italy, with each city-state eager to assert its economic power. The Florentine florin, a gold coin from 15th-century Florence, became popular throughout Europe, setting the stage for later paper money developments.

The Lira After Italian Unification The real story of Italian paper money begins after the country unified in 1861. Italy needed a unified currency to reflect its newfound unity, and in 1874, the Italian lira (Lira Italiana) officially became the national currency. The early banknotes were simple and designed for practical use. Their imagery often featured classical symbols of art and architecture, representing Italy’s pride in its cultural heritage.

As time went on, Italian banknotes became more elaborate, often showcasing Italy’s strong artistic tradition. For instance, banknotes in the early 20th century featured prominent figures from the Renaissance—artists, scientists, and political leaders like Dante, Galileo, and Leonardo da Vinci. These designs were not just tributes to these individuals but also a message to the world that Italy remained a center of culture and intellectual achievement.

Post-War Economic Challenges After World War II, Italy’s economy went through significant upheaval, and its banknotes became a reflection of this change. Inflation caused the value of the lira to drop, and it became common to carry large amounts of cash for everyday purchases. Banknotes had to adapt, with denominations growing from hundreds to thousands and even tens of thousands of lire.

The post-war banknotes maintained Italy’s tradition of celebrating its history and culture. For example, the 50,000 and 100,000 lira notes of the 1980s featured beautiful portraits of cultural icons and historical scenes. One famous example is the 100,000 lira note bearing the image of the composer Giuseppe Verdi, a symbol of Italian music and art. The back of the note depicted scenes from his operas, blending art with the function of money.

The Arrival of the Euro In 2002, Italy officially joined the Eurozone, and the lira was retired. For many Italians, this marked the end of an era. The lira was more than just a currency—it was a symbol of Italy’s economic and cultural independence. When the Euro replaced the lira, Italy’s unique and artistic banknotes disappeared, replaced by the more uniform and neutral design of the Euro.

However, Italian culture found a subtle way to persist through the Euro. The Euro notes feature symbolic bridges, windows, and arches, which, although fictional, still echo Italian architectural styles, representing the shared heritage of European nations.

Italian banknotes were never just pieces of paper; they were mirrors reflecting the nation’s history, culture, and artistic spirit. From the chaotic days of city-states, through the unifying symbol of the lira, to the euro, Italy’s banknotes have witnessed the country’s transformation over the centuries. Behind every note, there’s a story, one that speaks of Italy’s search for balance in art, culture, and economy.