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For older renminbi, establish the historical identity from the currency series, issuer, denomination, year, layout, prefix and serial number, then record the paper and preservation separately. Do not substitute a mark...
For older renminbi, establish the historical identity from the currency series, issuer, denomination, year, layout, prefix and serial number, then record the paper and preservation separately. Do not substitute a market nickname for information printed on the note.
The historical identity must be traceable to the note
Transcribe the country name, issuer, denomination, year, text layout, signatures and prefix from the front and back. Online descriptions such as a numbered “series” or named “edition” should link to an official or authoritative catalogue; otherwise, treat them only as candidate classifications.
- Give every note its own identifier.
- List the same denomination separately when the year or prefix series differs.
- Record watermarks and security features only when they can be observed safely.
The prefix and serial number are note-specific data
Transcribe the complete prefix, number of digits, colour and arrangement for every note. Derive any consecutive sequence from the actual serial numbers, not from a photograph of stacked notes.
- Keep every serial-number close-up linked to the complete note.
- Verify any uncertain character against the photograph.
- Give the certificate number and banknote number separate fields.
Preservation records do not determine historical value
Describe paper embrittlement, folds, foxing, moisture marks, mould spots, repairs, trimming and plastic-sleeve marks separately. Do not wash, iron, attach anything to or expose the note to sunlight for a prolonged period.
- Photograph one set in natural light and another under raking light.
- Record any odour and damp storage environment as well.
- Isolate suspected mould before it can contact other paper items.
Preserve version differences when consulting catalogues
When consulting a historical catalogue, record its title, edition, page number and date checked. Treat an edition as a candidate only when the note’s wording, position of the design and serial-number format support it together. If sources conflict, retain both readings; do not overwrite the item with the more familiar name.
- Keep the candidate name separate from the confirmed identity.
- Do not use a reproduced image to fill unclear details on the note.
- Attach a reviewable page or bibliographic reference to every version conclusion.
Frequently asked questions
Can a market nickname be used directly as the edition?
No. First verify the issuer, denomination, year, layout and an authoritative catalogue.
For a consecutive sequence, is it enough to photograph only the first and last two notes?
No. Record the complete serial number of every note to avoid omissions, duplicates or an incorrect order.
Should an older note be ironed flat?
No. Heat and pressure may alter the paper; preserve it as found.
Related resources on this site
Organise the records using the fields on this page
When documenting older renminbi, provide the front and back of every note, its prefix and serial number, a photograph showing the watermark when safely visible, and close-ups of paper issues. You may send the details via WhatsApp, or call +852 9453 0784. Getting in touch does not mean that an appraisal or quotation has been completed; any conclusion remains subject to verifiable records and inspection of the item.
