Other Information on Paper Money or Bank Note

Cleaning, Washing, Pressing and Processing of Banknotes




(a) Cleaning, washing or pressing paper money /banknote

• Generally harmful and reduces both the grade and the value of a note. A washed or pressed note normally loses its original sheen and its surface may become lifeless and dull.

• Defects like folds and creases, may not necessarily be completely eliminated and their telltale marks can be detected under a good light.

• Carelessly washed notes may have white streaks where the folds or creases were (or still are).

• Glue, tape, or pencil marks may sometimes help to improve the overall appearance of the note without concealing any of its defects. Under such circumstances, the grade of the note may also be improved.





(b) Processing of paper money/banknote

• Processing of a note which started out as Extremely Fine will automatically reduce it at least one full grade.



© How to look at a banknote

To do grading, it is essential to examine the bank note under good light. Move the note around so that the light bounces off at different angles. Try holding it up obliquely so that the note is almost even with your eye as you look up at the light. Hard-to-see folds or slight creases will show up under such examination.Some individuals also lightly feel along the surface of the note to detect creasing.