Currency is something we all use, but most of us do not know much about it. Currency is used all over the world, and there are many different types. Currency is constantly changing and evolving with the times, and there are times that it increases and decreases in value. Many factors affect currency, such as the political and social climate, the job market, and other external happenings. Let’s take a look at some fun facts about global currency that have occurred over multiple years in history, as featured in an article on Tinggly.
Firstly, the British Pound is the oldest currency in the world and dates back to before Anglo-Saxon times. Before the retirement of guineas in 1816, it was customary that gentlemen were paid in guineas, and tradesmen were paid in pounds. The Pound features a photo of Queen Elizabeth, who has been featured on 30 different countries’ currencies, making her the most featured person in currency.
Next, the U.S. Dollar actually features many hidden messages within the note. Depending on how you fold the dollar, you can see many messages appear in different areas. These messages include “Resistance is Futile,” “In God We Trust,” “Trust No One,” and “Lest we Forget.”
If you have ever wondered who has the smallest banknote in the world, that spot goes to the Romani 10 bani. It was issued in 1917 and spans only from 27.5mm by 38mm. In contrast, the world’s largest banknote goes to the Philippines and was issued as a celebration of the country’s independence. The note measures out to be 22cm by 23cm.
One of the most interesting banknotes out there is the New Zealand $5 bill. The note features Sir Edmund Hillary, who was the first man to climb Mount Everest along with partner Tenzing Norgay.
Lastly, if you are interested in collector’s items, you should check out the 100 quintillion, also known as 100 million billion pengo note. This bill was created in Hungary in 1946 after the country suffered extreme effects of inflation. Currently, the bill is virtually useless, but many people like to possess it as an interesting memory of a part of the country’s history.