Prague, Czech Republic, October 26, 2023 – The Czech National Bank (ČNB) has introduced a new design for the 5,000 koruna banknote, reflecting advancements in printing technology. The fresh design will feature the year of issuance, 2023, and the governor’s signature, while retaining the same security elements as previous versions. Importantly, the older designs from 1999 and 2009 will remain valid, eliminating the need for the public to exchange them for the new notes. The ČNB confirmed in a press release that the differences arising from the new technology are imperceptible to the naked eye.

The introduction of the new design is part of the central bank’s strategy to gradually replace old banknotes based on their level of wear and tear. Five thousand koruna banknotes are known for their extended lifespan as they are less commonly used in daily transactions, primarily due to their high denomination. As a result, they experience significantly less wear and tear compared to lower-denomination notes. These 5,000 koruna banknotes account for only about 5.5% of the total number of 525 million banknotes in circulation.

The most widely circulated banknotes in the Czech Republic are the 2,000 koruna notes, constituting approximately one-third of all used banknotes. They are followed by the 1,000 koruna notes, making up one-quarter of the total, and then the 200 koruna, 100 koruna, and 500 koruna banknotes.

In addition to the new 5,000 koruna banknote, the country also has banknotes in denominations of 100 and 200 koruna with a design from 2018, 500 koruna banknotes with a design from 2009, 1,000 koruna banknotes with a design from 2008, and 2,000 koruna banknotes with a design from 2007.

The ČNB has previously withdrawn older banknote designs from circulation, with the most recent being the 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 koruna banknotes from 1995 to 1999, which can be identified by a thinner silver stripe. Until the end of June 2024, these older banknotes can be exchanged for valid ones at regular bank counters, and afterward, only at ČNB branches. The decision to replace and refresh the 5,000 koruna banknote design is part of the ČNB’s ongoing efforts to enhance security features and adapt to evolving printing technologies while ensuring a seamless transition for the public.

Article by Prague Forum