While some nations keep their currency designs simple, others transform their banknotes and coins into everyday works of art. These currencies often reflect a country’s cultural identity, history, and natural beauty, making them far more than just a medium of exchange.
At Remitly, we specialise in international money transfers, helping people send funds to their loved ones worldwide. Whether the money arrives as cash, on debit cards, in mobile wallets, or directly into bank accounts, the currencies themselves remain a strong connection to home.
19 Beautiful World Currencies
Here’s a closer look at 19 of the world’s most beautiful currencies and the stories they tell.
1. Brazil Banknotes
The Brazilian real features the Efígie da República, a symbol of the nation depicted as a woman wearing a Phrygian cap and a crown of bay leaves. The reverse celebrates Brazil’s remarkable wildlife, including the jaguar and golden lion tamarin. The newest banknotes, including one featuring the maned wolf, showcase Brazil’s vibrant biodiversity.
2. Uganda Banknotes
The Ugandan shilling highlights the nation’s heritage with intricate patterns inspired by traditional mats, a map of Uganda, and imagery of the Nile River. Its designs reflect a blend of Ugandan traditions and British colonial history.
3. Malaysia Banknotes
Malaysia’s ringgit notes are inspired by Wawasan 2020, a vision of national progress. Banknotes feature iconic landmarks like the Kuala Lumpur Tower and key industries, symbolising modernisation and development.
4. Mexico Banknotes
The Mexican peso highlights the country’s history and landscapes. One standout is the 500-peso note, which features Benito Juárez on the front and gray whales in El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve on the back. This series of notes has been praised for its artistic and historical significance.
5. South Africa Banknotes
South Africa’s rand pays tribute to the Big Five animals: the rhinoceros, elephant, lion, buffalo, and leopard. The bold colours and wildlife designs make these notes a vivid representation of the country’s natural treasures.
6. Argentina Banknotes
Argentina’s banknotes combine art and practicality, featuring native wildlife like the Rufous hornero, the national bird. These notes are unique in that the front designs are vertical, while the reverse is horizontal.
7. India Banknotes
The Indian rupee celebrates the country’s culture and achievements, with notes depicting Mahatma Gandhi and landmarks such as the Sun Temple. Each denomination is distinguished by vibrant colours like magenta, lavender, and blue.
8. Nigeria Banknotes
The Nigerian naira is notable for being one of the few currencies signed by a woman—Priscilla Ekwere Eleje, the Central Bank of Nigeria’s first female Director of Currency Operations. Its coins feature symbols of the nation’s economy, such as peanuts and palm trees.
9. Canada Banknotes
Canada’s polymer notes are not only durable but also strikingly beautiful. The $10 bill, which won the 2018 IBNS Banknote of the Year Award, features Viola Desmond, a prominent civil rights activist, and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
10. Switzerland Banknotes
The Swiss franc is celebrated for its elegant designs. Each note incorporates a unique theme, such as time or nature, and features imagery like hands conducting music or other symbolic gestures.
11. Honduras Banknotes
Honduran lempira notes honour the country’s Mayan heritage, showcasing ruins like Copán and traditional activities like pelota, a Mayan ball game. The currency also celebrates Lempira, a 16th-century leader of the Lenca people.
12. Australia Banknotes
The Australian dollar showcases native wildlife like kangaroos and emus, while incorporating cutting-edge security features like transparent windows and holographic details.
13. New Zealand Banknotes
New Zealand’s colourful banknotes highlight local icons like Sir Edmund Hillary and the country’s diverse wildlife, from native birds to endemic plants.
14. Euro Banknotes
Representing the unity of Europe, the euro’s designs showcase various architectural styles, from classical to modern. This diversity symbolises Europe’s shared cultural heritage.
15. Maldives Banknotes
The Maldivian rufiyaa reflects the island nation’s vibrant marine life and cultural traditions, with polymer notes that feature intricate illustrations of coral reefs and fishing scenes.
16. Iceland Banknotes
Iceland’s kronur banknotes are a blend of portraits and stunning natural landscapes, including waterfalls and volcanic terrains. They reflect the island’s rugged beauty and rich history.
17. Cook Islands Banknotes
The Cook Islands’ notes feature bold, colourful designs showcasing Polynesian culture, marine life, and local traditions, making them collector favourites worldwide.
18. Hong Kong Banknotes
Hong Kong dollars are issued by three separate banks, each with unique designs. The notes depict landmarks like the Bauhinia flower and iconic skyscrapers, reflecting Hong Kong’s cultural and economic vibrancy.
19. Costa Rica Banknotes
Costa Rican colón banknotes celebrate the nation’s incredible biodiversity, with vivid depictions of jaguars, hummingbirds, and other wildlife, along with eco-friendly production.
How Are Banknotes Ranked?
The International Bank Note Society (IBNS) annually awards the “Banknote of the Year” to outstanding designs that combine artistry with advanced security. Recent winners include Canada’s $10 bill, Mexico’s 100-peso note, and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s $2 polymer note.
IBNS Banknote of the Year Winners (2010 – Present)
2023: Eastern Caribbean Central Bank $2 Note
2022: Philippines 1,000-Peso Note
2021: Mexico 50-Peso Note
2020: Mexico 100-Peso Note
2019: Aruba 100-Florin Note
2018: Canada 10-Dollar Note
2017: Switzerland 10-Franc Note
2016: Switzerland 50-Franc Note
2015: New Zealand 5-Dollar Note
2014: Trinidad & Tobago 50-Dollar Note
2013: Kazakhstan 1,000-Tenge Note
2012: Kazakhstan 5,000-Tenge Note
2011: Kazakhstan 10,000-Tenge Note
2010: Uganda 50,000-Shilling Note
