Buzz
1. The Swiss Franc: Switzerland is renowned for its prestigious banking system, so it's no surprise that its currency made it onto the list of the most beautiful banknotes in the world. The Swiss franc features the work of renowned sculptor Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966), paying tribute to this famous artist. The front of the note displays portraits of notable individuals, while the back highlights the nation's most significant achievements. The rising human figures symbolize the extraordinary progress of the Swiss people.
2. The Comoros Franc: After gaining independence in 1975, Comoros, an African island nation, endured several internal conflicts. Despite its tumultuous history, the country's banknote doesn't reflect this instability. Instead, it features a peaceful image of a bare tree standing alone by the sea. The 1000 Franc note, issued in 2006, is celebrated for its delicate design, featuring the symbol of an ivory snail, representing the people's dream of peace. Although the snail may not be immediately striking to some, it holds a unique beauty appreciated by numismatists.
3. The New Zealand Dollar: This banknote features Edmund Hillary, the first person to conquer Mount Everest. To honor his achievement, New Zealand issued notes featuring Hillary and the iconic peak of Everest. Hillary was also the first to reach Antarctica in 1958 and the first to visit the source of the Ganges River in 1977.
4. The Cook Islands Dollar: Situated between Hawaii and New Zealand, the Cook Islands is isolated with limited infrastructure, which means it doesn't attract many tourists. As a result, few people have had the chance to see the unique and stunning image on the Cook Islands' banknote – a woman confidently riding a shark.
5. The Hong Kong Dollar: Despite initial concerns about its economy after being handed back to China, Hong Kong has remained a major economic hub with its own currency. The Hong Kong dollar features advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting, and its modern design and professional color scheme place it among the most beautiful banknotes in the world.
6. The Iceland Krona: In the 17th century, in a peaceful corner of Scandinavia, a seamstress named Ragnheiour Jonsdottir married two successive bishops. Today, the image of this woman wearing a tall hat and passionately teaching her students is preserved on the Iceland 5000 Krona note. The intricate details of the design make this banknote one of the most beautiful in the world.
7. The Faroe Islands Krona: Located in the North Atlantic between Norway and Iceland, the Faroe Islands' banknote features an asymmetrical design with a giant crab with oversized claws, creating a striking and memorable image that immediately captures attention.
8. The French Polynesia Franc: Everything in Polynesia is breathtaking, and its currency is no exception. The Polynesian franc features harmonious colors and captures the beauty of the islands, which include Bora Bora, Hiva Oa, Nuku Hiva, Tahiti, and Moorea. Known as paradise on earth, these islands are blessed with turquoise seas and golden sunshine.
9. The Maldives Rufiyaa: The Maldives, a chain of over 1,300 islands in the Indian Ocean, features a banknote with images of coconuts and fishing boats, the main livelihoods of the local people. Additionally, the note also includes images of seashells, which were once used as a form of currency and still hold historical significance as an early means of trade.
10. The Sao Tome & Principe Dobra: Located off the coast of the Gulf of Guinea in Africa, the island nation of Sao Tome & Principe is made up of volcanic islands rich in unique wildlife. Its currency showcases the fish-eagle, a symbol of the country’s natural beauty. The note also pays tribute to national hero Ray Amador, with imagery of volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and local wildlife.
