What is a "Pick number" and why do you mention it?
A Pick number refers to the Standard Catalog of World Paper Money, the reference collectors use to identify and catalogue world banknotes. Where relevant, we include the Pick number on a listing so you can cross-reference a note against other collections or price guides. It's a cataloguing convention rather than anything printed on the note itself.
Which European countries are included in this collection?
This collection covers historic banknotes from across Europe, with a strong focus on Germany, Greece, Italy, France, Spain and Austria-Hungary, alongside smaller runs from countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands and the Nordic countries. Availability changes over time, so it's worth using the search bar or checking back for a specific country.
Why are some European banknotes printed in such high denominations?
Some countries, particularly Germany in 1923 and Greece in the 1940s, went through periods of hyperinflation, when the value of money fell so quickly that denominations had to keep rising to keep pace. Notes worth millions or billions were genuinely part of daily life for a short period in these countries, which is why they turn up in collections today. The face value reflects that economic history rather than the note's collectable value.
Are high-denomination hyperinflation notes valuable?
Not necessarily by face value, since the currency itself became worthless, but many collectors seek these notes out precisely because of what they represent. Value comes down to condition, rarity and the specific denomination rather than the number printed on the note. Some of the more extreme denominations are also genuinely scarce, and collectors pay more for them because of that.
Do you sell circulated and uncirculated European banknotes?
Yes, we stock both circulated and uncirculated notes. Circulated notes have been used and may show folds, light wear, or softer corners, while uncirculated notes are typically crisper with sharper detail and fewer handling marks. Condition is shown on each listing so you can choose what suits your collecting style and budget.
Are these old European banknotes still legal currency?
No, these are historic currencies that have since been replaced, whether by the Rentenmark, a new drachma, or later the euro, so they're collected rather than spent today. Collectors value them for their design, history and rarity rather than any face value they once carried.
What affects the value of European banknotes?
Value is usually influenced by condition, rarity and collector demand for the specific country, series and denomination. Notes that are scarcer, in higher grade, or tied to a notable period, such as wartime issues, tend to command more interest. It's worth checking the exact note against similar sold examples rather than judging by country or face value alone.
Are your European banknotes authentic?
Yes, we only sell genuine banknotes and we check items before listing. Each product listing includes photos and a description of the exact item so you can review the issuing country, denomination, date and condition before you buy. If you have a question about a particular note, message us and we will do our best to help.
What are your UK and worldwide shipping options and dispatch times?
We offer UK and worldwide shipping, with options and costs shown at checkout depending on destination and parcel weight. We offer free UK delivery on orders £50 and over. Orders placed before midday Monday to Friday are usually dispatched the same working day, and orders placed after midday are typically dispatched the next working day. International orders may be subject to customs or import fees depending on the destination.
