The National Bank of the Republic of South Ossetia issued a 200 Zarin commemorative banknote on September 20, 2026, honoring scholar Vaso Abaev. Limited to 20,000 pieces, the note features Abaev on the front, emphasizing the Ossetian language, while the reverse showcases Caucasian red deer and Mount Kazbek, reflecting the region's natural beauty.
Cuba introduced new 10,000- and 20,000-peso banknotes, completing the expansion of its currency series initiated earlier that year. These high-denomination notes aim to facilitate cash transactions amid inflation, while maintaining the validity of existing lower denominations. Their designs feature notable Cuban figures and enhanced security features.
The Central Bank of Samoa announced a new 100 tala commemorative banknote honoring Queen Elizabeth II's 100th birthday, featuring her portraits across different life stages. Released as a collector's item, the note connects her legacy to their historic 1977 visit and showcases Samoan culture and landscapes, making it a unique collectible.
The Bank of Canada revealed a new vertical $20 banknote featuring King Charles III. Set to circulate from February 2027, it honors Indigenous culture, retains the Vimy Memorial, and introduces advanced security features, marking a significant evolution in Canadian currency.
The Central Bank of Azerbaijan introduced a redesigned 100 manat banknote on July 15, 2026, featuring enhanced security elements and a vertical reverse. This update continues Azerbaijan's modernization efforts initiated in 2021. The new note retains the original theme while including advanced features such as a RollingStar hologram and a SPARK Flow security element.
São Tomé and Príncipe has introduced a commemorative 50 Dobras banknote to celebrate its 50th independence anniversary from Portugal. Launched on August 26, 2026, the note features designs symbolizing the nation’s history and biodiversity. Although incorporating advanced security features, it is not meant for regular circulation, emphasizing its role as a commemorative piece.
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) is set to launch a redesigned series of Eastern Caribbean dollar banknotes in 2027, replacing Queen Elizabeth II's image with portraits of national heroes and prominent figures from the region. This significant change marks a new era for local currency, emphasizing regional identity.
Explore new banknotes of 2026 from around the world, including new denominations, major redesigns, commemoratives and newly released banknote series.
