2021-04-12 Mon

Throughout history, banknotes have always been designed in a way that matches consumer need. Sometimes, however, these requirements are changed lead to innovations that we might not expect, such as exceptionally large or small notes.

The largest banknote ever printed originates from the Philippines, where, in 1998, government officials wanted to do something extra special to commemorate independence from more than 300 years of Spanish rule. The world’s largest banknote was issued, with a face value of 100,000 pisos and impressive dimensions of 355.6mm in length and 215.9mm in height.

The front of the note depicts the historic “Cry of Pugadlawin” – a historic act of defiance against the Spanish oppressors which signalled the start of the revolt against Spain in 1896. Led by Andres Bonifacio, a group of Filipino patriots gathered in Pugadlawin and tore up their Spanish-issued residence certificates in protest of Spain’s dominion over their land.

The reverse of the note depicts Filipino General Emilio Aguinaldo displaying a Philippine flag and proclaiming independence from Spain, as he did on June 12th, 1898. Therefore, the two sides of the bill symbolize the inception and success of the independence movement. Just 1,000 such notes were issued and were originally offered to collectors for 180,000 pisos (4175 USD) each.

However, the title of the largest banknote belongs to Malaysia’s 600 Ringgit banknote!

Image Courtesy: banknoteworld.com