TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Banknotes serve as symbols of a nation’s economy, but they extend beyond mere monetary function; they are testaments to history, art, and cultural heritage. Some have even emerged as rare foreign currencies, carrying unmatched value that captivates enthusiasts and collectors alike—particularly numismatists.
According to NotesHOBBY, the Zimbabwe 100 trillion dollar note stands out as one of the most notable and rarest banknotes in the world. Here are five of the world’s rarest banknotes and the the brief stories behind them:
1. Zimbabwe 100 Trillion Dollar Note
The Zimbabwe 100 trillion dollar note is undeniably a rare foreign currency. Issued in 2008, it’s a living proof of the nation’s effort to face extraordinary hyperinflation and economic instability.
While it possessed no purchasing power, the 100 trillion Zimbabwe dollar stands as a cult favorite among collectors. According to NotesHOBBY, collectors often pay between $50 and a few hundred dollars for this sought-after banknote.
2. 1891 U.S. Red Seal $1,000 Bill
Printed during the Gilded Age, the 1891 U.S. Red Seal $1,000 bill is one of the rarest pieces of American currency. Featuring Major General George Meade, the hero of the Battle of Gettysburg, this note is a snapshot of U.S. history.
Only seven examples exist, and when they come up for auction, they often fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars. In 2013, for example, this masterpiece sold for around $2.5 million.
3. Kuwaiti 20 Dinar Bill
The Kuwaiti Dinar is not only the strongest currency in the world as of 2025, but it also features one of the rarest banknotes. The Kuwaiti 20 Dinar bill was withdrawn just two days after its release due to a misspelling, making it an incredibly rare collector's item.
4. Canadian $500 Bill, 1911 Issue
Featuring the image of Queen Mary, the Canadian $500 bill issued 1911 was valued between $300,000 to $500,000. Its appeal lies on the signature, which was hand-signed instead of being engraved. As noted by Stack’s Bowers, the Canada 1911 $500 Bill only has three examples available to collectors.
5. The Grand Watermelon Note
Nicknamed for the green zeros on the back that resemble watermelons, the $1,000 “Grand Watermelon” note is perhaps the most famous and valuable U.S. banknote ever printed. Issued in 1890, only 16,000 were originally printed, and just seven remain today. Its significance is further heightened by the fact that it was one of the first high-denomination U.S. currency notes.
These rare banknotes go beyond currency—they represent moments in history, national identity, and artistic achievement. With this in mind, they might inspire you to explore the most beautiful banknotes in the world.
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