Know the advantages of serial numbers in currency notes

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: For common understanding if one asks what is a currency note, the answer would be simple – it is an exchange value which people use for transactions.

There are several ways to check the authenticity of a currency note. But have you wondered what does the serial number in currency notes denote?

Let's understand the meaning behind  the currency serial numbers.

1. All the currency notes come with a specific alpha-numerical series. The colour of this serial number is usually red.
2. The presence or absence of a serial number or other specific feature is not a determining factor when assessing damaged banknotes for value.
3. It comprises of three things: Prefix, Inset and Serial Number Syntax. The first three letters are prefix, the remaining are serial number while if you look carefully there is something like a watermark within the serial number panel —that is Inset.
4. The serial number in a note helps the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) identify the exact number of notes available in the market currently. It also works as a currency tracker for the RBI.
5. Issuing banknotes with specific numbers may not be possible.
6. Fresh banknotes issued by Reserve Bank of India till August 2006 were serially numbered.
7. Each of these banknote bears a distinctive serial number along with a prefix consisting of numerals and letter/s.
8. The banknotes are issued in packets containing 100 pieces.
9. The Bank has also adopted the "STAR series" numbering system for replacement of defectively printed banknotes.
10. The Star series banknotes are exactly similar to the existing Mahatma Gandhi Series banknotes, but have an additional character viz., a *(star) in the number panel in the space between the prefix and the number.