13 Cool Banknotes with See Through Windows and Other Security Features
Banknotes have come a long way from simple paper bills to intricate pieces of art and security. One of the most fascinating innovations in modern currency is the use of see-through windows and other high-tech features. These clear sections not only make banknotes more visually striking but also provide enhanced security, making counterfeiting more difficult. The intricate designs and hidden elements, often only visible under certain lighting or through close inspection, add to the charm of these bills. As technology advances, countries around the world have embraced these features to protect their currencies while showcasing their unique cultural identities. For collectors, these banknotes are not just a form of money but a blend of art, history, and technology.
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Canadian $20 Polymer Note
The Canadian $20 polymer note is one of the most recognized examples of a banknote with a clear window. The transparent area holds a metallic portrait that changes appearance when you tilt the note under light. This feature makes it easier for people to check authenticity without special tools. Surrounding the window are fine lines and patterns that are difficult to replicate with basic printing equipment.
On the front and back there are raised ink areas that can be felt by touch which adds another layer of security. This note is widely used in daily transactions which makes it familiar to many collectors and regular users. Its combination of vibrant color and interactive features keeps interest strong among those who appreciate currency art.
Australian $50 Polymer Note
The Australian $50 polymer banknote is known for its clear window that carries intricate floral designs. This window is set within the polymer substrate so that the design appears embedded into the note itself. Around this you will find micro printed text and small details that are difficult to scan or copy with typical office equipment.
On one side there is a shadow image that appears within the print when the note is held up to the light. Tactile features help those with limited vision identify the denomination by feel. Collectors often look for well-preserved specimens that have not been creased or bent. This banknote remains popular because it balances practical use and interesting visual appeal.
Swiss 50 Franc Polymer Note
The Swiss 50 franc note introduced a large transparent window near one edge of the bill. Inside that space there is a depiction of sound waves that move when the angle of view shifts. These waves are related to the theme of the note which celebrates the importance of sound and language in society. Beyond the window the note is printed on durable polymer with complex background imagery that is hard to reproduce.
Hidden within the inks are small characters that change color under ultraviolet light. Advanced printing and security techniques are visible around the portraits and patterns. Its striking design and technical features make it a favorite among those who enjoy modern currency innovations.
Singapore $10 Polymer Note
Singapore released a $10 polymer note packed with features including a see through window displaying a lion head motif. The clear section is surrounded by fine geometric lines that appear to move when the note is tilted. Within the printed areas there are hidden texts and symbols that are visible only under magnification.
The note also uses color shifting ink on certain numerals, so the number seems to change when viewed from different angles. Raised print near the edges helps people confirm the texture is genuine. Its compact size and bold colors make it stand out in any collection.
Papua New Guinea Kina 50 Note
Papua New Guinea issued a note with a large clear window that has an image of indigenous art. The transparent portion sits within the center, so it is easy to spot at first glance. Surrounding this is complex background imagery drawn from local cultural themes. The printing includes small line designs that change orientation when seen at different angles.
The note also has special fibers embedded in the material that glow under ultraviolet light. Raised elements around the portraits help users confirm the feel of the genuine material. Many collectors prize the combination of cultural imagery and advanced security in a single piece.
New Zealand $20 Note
The New Zealand $20 polymer note features a clear window with native bird silhouettes. The design around the window uses fine shapes that are difficult to mimic with simple copying devices. There are also small features that reflect light differently depending on the angle of view.
People can run their fingers over the raised ink to feel distinct text and patterns. Ultraviolet inspection reveals additional embedded symbols that are invisible in normal lighting. Because this note remained in circulation until recently many collectors find older uncirculated pieces attractive. The combination of visual interest and tactile security keeps it popular.
Brunei $1 Polymer Note
The Brunei $1 polymer note is a lower denomination but with interesting security elements including a clear window shaped like a national emblem. That window is integrated into the design which includes fine loops and curves around the edges. Close inspection reveals micro printed text along the patterns that are hard to reproduce with simple equipment.
Certain parts of the print reflect light in unusual ways when the position of the note moves. The note also contains tiny colored threads that appear under specific lighting. Raised print near the denomination helps people with limited sight identify the note by feel. This smaller note shows that security features can be present at any value level.
Hong Kong $50 Polymer Note
The Hong Kong $50 polymer note includes a large vertical clear area with embedded details. Within that transparent space are dynamic images that shift when the viewing angle changes. The surrounding print is full of fine line work that is hard to copy with common scanners or printers.
Under ultraviolet light parts of the number and symbols become visible that are hidden in regular daylight. The note surface includes raised areas that can be felt without looking. Because this note circulated widely its uncirculated examples are sought by collectors. Its mix of city imagery and advanced elements attracts many world currency fans.
Mexico 500 Peso Polymer Note
Mexico introduced a polymer version of the 500 pesos note with clear sections showing native artwork. The see through windows feature stylized designs that tie to the cultural themes on the note. Around these areas the print includes fine details that change appearance with movement. Ultraviolet review shows additional elements that remain hidden in daylight.
Raised print lines help people confirm tactile features when handling the note. Collectors value the Mexican polymer notes because they represent important currency changes. Its blend of national identity and interactive features makes it engaging for many who enjoy banknotes.
European Central Bank €100 Polymer Note
The European Central Bank’s €100 polymer note is packed with security features, including a wide, transparent window that shows a map of Europe. This feature highlights both the geographical and political significance of the currency. The window is surrounded by fine linework and patterns that change color when tilted under light.
The note also contains a latent image of the €100 denomination which becomes visible when the note is rotated. On the back, there are tactile features that help visually impaired users recognize the note by touch. The polymer material ensures that the note remains durable and resistant to wear. Collectors find the mixture of advanced security and modern design highly appealing.
South African 200 Rand Polymer Note
The South African 200-rand polymer note features a prominent transparent window with an image of Nelson Mandela. The window is shaped in a stylized form and positioned to complement the images of important landmarks and figures. Surrounding this window, the print includes complex patterns and micro text that help thwart counterfeiters.
The security features extend to the use of color-shifting ink and hidden ultraviolet designs. Raised print along the edges enhances tactile recognition. Given its high denomination and the importance of Mandela’s image, it holds a special place in currency collections. It remains popular among collectors interested in both security and historical figures.
Fiji $5 Polymer Note
The Fiji $5 polymer note stands out due to its transparent window featuring an intricate design of a Fijian canoe. This window is seamlessly integrated into the bill, making it a unique feature of the currency. The note also contains vibrant colors that shift depending on the angle, creating an eye-catching visual effect.
Security elements include fine line patterns and micro text that help with verification. The polymer construction ensures durability, making it resistant to wear and tear. Raised features are also found along the bill’s edges for tactile security. Its rich cultural imagery and advanced security elements make it attractive to both casual users and collectors alike.
Zambia 100 Kwacha Polymer Note
Zambia’s 100 Kwacha polymer note is another example of modern banknote security, featuring a prominent clear window. This window showcases a design that reflects Zambia’s national identity, including local wildlife and nature. Surrounding the window, there are intricate background patterns that make the note difficult to forge.
The banknote also includes color-changing inks and fine print that appear only under ultraviolet light. Raised areas of print offer tactile cues for easier identification. The polymer material ensures the note remains durable, even in frequent circulation.Its beautiful design and advanced security features make it highly sought after in the global currency collection market.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.