Norges Bank

Press release

100-krone note safeguarded against counterfeiting

On 25 March, Norges Bank is putting a new version of the 100-krone note into circulation. The note has been upgraded to the same level of protection against counterfeiting as the 1000-, 500- and 200-krone notes. Among other things, it is equipped with a broad, hologram foil stripe to the right of the portrait. When the note is held at different angles, different parts of the motive in the stripe will light up and change colour, even in poor lighting. The foil stripe thus makes it easier to identify a genuine banknote.

A series of 100s are printed on the back of the note. If these are viewed while tilting the note they will be seen to change colour.

Although the number of counterfeit 100-krone notes is small in relation to the total volume of notes in circulation, counterfeiting of notes has become a growing problem in recent years. Most counterfeit notes have been produced using a colour copier or a PC scanner. If attempts are made to copy the new note using this equipment, the foil stripe will come out black. Thus, even in poor lighting, it will be difficult to use such a counterfeit note.

The note still contains all the other security features, such as the watermark portrait, security thread and iridescent effect. We urge the public to continue using these to check whether a note is genuine, in addition to the new features.

A picture of the note is to be found on Norges Bank's website, along with more details on how to distinguish a counterfeit note from a genuine one.

The note has been signed by the Svein Gjedrem, the Central Bank Governor, and Trond Eklund, Director, Chief Cashier's Department.

The "old" version of the note will continue to be legal tender, but these notes will be shredded as they come in to Norges Bank.

Contact:

Press telephone: +47 21 49 09 30
Email: presse@norges-bank.no

Published 24 March 2003 14:00