September 30, 2008
Bank of Latvia releases new 10-lat banknote
A new 10-lat banknote that looks essentially the same as those already in circulation, but with better protection against counterfeiting, is to be released Oct. 1 by the Bank of Latvia.
The anti-counterfeiting elements already are used in the latest 5-lat and 20-lat notes, according to a Sept. 30 press release from the central bank. The front of the new 10-lat note includes two “10” symbols imprinted in relief above the translucent oak leaf. Also on the front, the large “10” is printed with a special ink that gives the illusion of changing colors when the bill is held at different angles.
The need for the new 10-lat note was driven by demand for the currency, according to the press release. Due to normal wear and tear, the average lifespan of a 10-lat note is 1.6 years. Last year alone the central bank removed from circulation and destroyed 4.6 million 10-lat notes.
The new notes were printed by Giesecke & Devrient, the same German company that has printed other Latvian banknotes.
Holders of earlier 10-lat banknotes issued in 1992 or 2000 may continue to use them as they remain legal tender.
Andris Straumanis is editor of Latvians Online.
The article may be found online at http://latviansonline.com/news/article/4799/
© 1995-2011 Latvians Online
Latvians Online is a global Internet meeting place for persons of all ages with an interest in Latvians and Latvia. Editor: Andris Straumanis. Associate editor: Daina Gross. Contributing editor: Amanda Jātniece. Technical director: Arnis Gross. Disclaimer: The content of Web sites to which Latvians Online provides links does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Latvians Online, its staff or its sponsors.