Laboratory of Authenticity

In the Laboratory of Authenticity you can learn on your own the secrets of the security features used in the “Polish Rulers” series of Polish banknotes. Designed by Andrzej Heidrich, the “Polish Rulers” series banknotes were put into circulation in 1995 (as a visual symbol of the currency reform at that time – the redenomination of the Polish zloty). The design of the room resembles a modern research studio: the specimens of genuine banknotes and counterfeits are displayed in showcases stylized as laboratory tables, which helps to compare them between themselves and learn about the types of security features used on genuine banknotes. Visitors can also use several stands with devices emitting white and ultra-violet light, in which security features are visible – everyone can check whether the banknotes that they have with them are genuine. We have also prepared for visitors a film lasting several minutes from footage of police actions against criminal groups dealing with counterfeiting money (even though counterfeiting money is a serious crime punishable by imprisonment from 5 to 25 years!).

More information about Polish circulation banknotes, whose security features were modernised in 2014, can be found on the NBP website.