Swiss National Bank introduces new 20-Franc note

Published May 10, 2017

Share

Zurich - The Swiss National Bank takes its money seriously. Fresh from winning banknote of the year for its 50-franc denomination, it unveiled a new 20-franc design on Wednesday that Vice President Fritz Zurbruegg argues might be the world’s most secure bill.

Red in colour and based on a theme of light and culture, the new 20, made of cotton paper and an inner polymer core, will come into circulation as of May 17.“The 20-franc note focuses on Switzerland’s creativity, highlighting the country’s vibrant cultural and artistic scene in a variety of areas,” Zurbruegg said at a ceremony in Bern.

The 20 follows the introduction last year of a new 50-franc note, which was named banknote of 2016 by a group of international connoisseurs, beating out 18 competitors including the Bank of England’s controversial polymer note. Switzerland’s new series features nature rather than portraits of historical Swiss figures.

Read also:  Swiss banker stresses importance of letting big banks fail 

The new 20 has 15 security features, including a globe that changes colour, a silver map of Switzerland and a cross that morphs into the country’s flag.

In response to a question about whether the note might be the world’s most secure, Zurbruegg said with a chuckle: “I’d claim that it is.”

BLOOMBERG

Related Topics: