How to Collect World Banknotes

When it comes to collecting, there are numerous things in which a would-be collector might choose to take an interest. A popular collector's item is currency. While this usually comes in the form of coin collecting, it also manifests itself as banknote collecting, or notaphily.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take a look at the international banknotes in your possession, or do some research about world banknotes in general to see if there is a common theme on which you want to focus.

2. Save any unique banknotes left over as change from international business trips or vacations abroad.

3. Set aside a specific location, such as a box, for your collection. Over time, leftover bank notes add up to form the foundation for your collection.

4. Visit local antique shops. Antique shops generally sell such items for a few dollars. Ask the shopkeeper about banknotes; he may have a stash of them somewhere in the back that aren't on display.

5. Explore street markets, bazaars and flea markets. Often, these places feature international banknotes of varying ages.

6. Visit your closest world banknote dealers. They offer notes from all over the world, old and new. If they don't have the note for which you're looking, they may be able to arrange to have it sent to you.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure that the dealer with whom you work is a member of the International Bank Note Society (IBNS); members of this group must deal according to a strict code of ethics.

References

• Introduction to Collecting World Banknotes
• About Banknote Collecting