Big variation in shortest- and longest-lived banknotes

Average lifespans range from 0.6 years to 20 years, with number of denominations playing key role

A central bank’s shortest-lived banknotes will typically be in circulation for around two years, while its most durable survive for seven and a half, according to Currency Benchmarks 2020 – but these median figures disguise much wider gaps within many central banks’ families of notes, and also between institutions.

This dispersion reveals that central banks are in very different starting places as they consider the trade-offs in switching to polymer – more expensive, but longer-lasting notes –

Only users who have a paid subscription or are part of a corporate subscription are able to print or copy content.

To access these options, along with all other subscription benefits, please contact info@centralbanking.com or view our subscription options here: http://subscriptions.centralbanking.com/subscribe

You are currently unable to copy this content. Please contact info@centralbanking.com to find out more.

Sorry, our subscription options are not loading right now

Please try again later. Get in touch with our customer services team if this issue persists.

New to Central Banking? View our subscription options

Most read articles loading...

You need to sign in to use this feature. If you don’t have a Central Banking account, please register for a trial.

Sign in
You are currently on corporate access.

To use this feature you will need an individual account. If you have one already please sign in.

Sign in.

Alternatively you can request an individual account

.