Collection: The Millennial Dragon: Ancient Banknotes that Tell the Story of China

Explore Chinese Notaphily: A Legacy of Empires and Revolution

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Chinese banknotes , where each antique banknote reflects the fall of the Qing Empire in 1911, the Republic, the Communist Revolution of 1949, and the vibrant heritage of the Great Wall. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our collection of antique Chinese banknotes , meticulously curated for both seasoned collectors and new buyers passionate about the monetary heritage of the world's most populous nation. Antique Chinese banknotes are more than just paper money; they are relics that chronicle the introduction of the yuan renminbi in 1948, issued by the People's Bank of China (PBC), symbolizing the economic sovereignty of a country that transitioned from dynasties to a modern superpower.

The Evolution of Ancient Chinese Banknotes: From the Imperial Yuan to the Renminbi

Before 1948, China used the silver yuan and the Central Bank yuan (1914–1948). Following the founding of the People's Republic on October 1, 1949, the People's Bank of China , established in 1948, introduced the renminbi (CNY), divided into 10 jiao and 100 fen. The first 1-yuan banknotes , issued in 1948, featured the worker and peasant and the national emblem. In 1955, the second series was launched featuring Mao Zedong. The current series (2019–present) includes polymer in some denominations, featuring the Great Hall of the People .

Rare Antique Banknotes from China: Jewels of East Asian Notaphily

Our collection highlights rare antique banknotes from China , such as:

1948 Series (foundation) : The 5 yuan of 1948 with the worker and the tractor.

1953 Series : The 10 yuan of 1953 with the peasant and the dam.

1960-1990 Series : The 100 yuan of 1980 with Mao and the Four Leaders (Zhou, Liu, Zhu, Chen).

Printing errors : banknotes with duplicate serial numbers or without a watermark.

For East Asian banknote enthusiasts, we offer exclusive pieces such as the 1948 1 yuan note featuring the coat of arms and train, and the last 100 yuan note from 1990 depicting Mao and the Guilin landscape. These vintage banknotes incorporate basic security features such as watermarks with Mao and fluorescent fibers. The rarity of the 1948 (pre-PBC) and early 1953 issues makes them highly sought after at international auctions, valued for their connection to the revolution and the Long March.

Preservation and Authenticity of Old Banknotes: Our Promise

Conservation is a key pillar in our selection of antique Chinese banknotes . Each piece is assessed according to international standards such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), guaranteeing the clarity of details like watermarks featuring the Grand Hall, fluorescent fibers, and the signatures of the Governor of the People's Bank of China. We recommend that collectors of rare antique banknotes verify authenticity under UV light, where elements such as serial numbers glow in shades of green or blue. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , every antique banknote undergoes a rigorous verification process to guarantee its authenticity , preventing common counterfeits such as irregular printing.

Why Collect Old Chinese Banknotes

From the 5 yuan note of 1948 featuring the worker and tractor, to the 100 yuan note of 1980 depicting Mao and the leaders, this collection offers an immersive experience in Chinese history. Each vintage banknote reflects key moments, such as the founding of the PRC in 1949 or the economic reforms of 1978. For new collectors , it's an entry point into East Asian banknote collecting; for seasoned collectors , it's an opportunity to acquire complete series with groundbreaking rarities that will enrich any collection.

Trust Iberoamericana Banknotes

At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we guarantee the authenticity of every antique banknote with detailed certificates and expertise in Asian numismatics. We offer pieces in optimal condition for your collectible collection and secure, discreet international shipping to any destination. Trust our authority to elevate your passion for antique Chinese banknotes to new heights.