Pakistan New Currency Notes Update – State Bank’s New Series with Advanced Security Features
As Pakistan prepares for a major change in its monetary system, the Pakistan New Currency Notes Update has become one of the most discussed topics in the country. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially confirmed that it plans to introduce a new series of currency notes equipped with modern and globally recognized security features. This step aligns Pakistan with international central banking standards aimed at stopping counterfeiting and modernizing currency circulation.
Why State Bank Is Introducing New Currency Notes
The Governor of SBP, Jameel Ahmad, recently indicated that the primary reason behind the decision is the rising threat of counterfeit currency. Pakistan’s older series of notes lack several advanced security layers now used worldwide. Introducing a new series will allow SBP to embed high-tech features that can significantly reduce fake currency circulation.
The new currency note series also reflects SBP’s long-term goal of modernizing Pakistan’s financial system and aligning the country with the most secure currency standards used globally.
Shortlisted Designs from Rs 10 to Rs 5000
SBP recently conducted an extensive design competition to gather fresh ideas for the new banknotes. A total of 10 designs were shortlisted, covering denominations from Rs 10 to Rs 5000.
The shortlisted concepts include:
- One design each for: Rs 20, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 1000
- Two designs each for: Rs 10, Rs 500, Rs 5000
These designs incorporate elements representing Pakistan’s history, culture, natural beauty, and national identity. Each design is now being fine-tuned before moving to the finalization stage.
Pakistan New Currency Notes Update (SBP New Series Overview)
| Feature | Current Currency Notes | Upcoming New Currency Notes (Proposed) |
|---|---|---|
| Security Features | Basic security thread, watermark, ordinary ink | Advanced watermark, embedded security thread, color-shifting ink, raised tactile printing, micro lettering |
| Design Style | Older traditional designs | Modern, culturally rich, internationally refined designs |
| Design Contributors | Local SBP designers | Local shortlisted designers + International currency design companies |
| Included Denominations | Rs 10 – Rs 5000 | Rs 10 – Rs 5000 (10 shortlisted designs) |
| Launch Status | In circulation | Under review; pending SBP Board & Federal Government approval |
| Public Awareness Plan | No major updates recently | Mandatory nationwide awareness campaign before launch |
| Exchange of Old Notes | Not announced | Will be announced with ample time if new notes are released |
| Printing Authority | Pakistan Security Printing Corporation | Same authority, with upgraded printing specs |
Role of International Designers in Finalizing The Series
In a major development, the shortlisted Pakistani designs are being sent to international currency design firms, who will refine them using world-class design techniques and security technology. This ensures the new notes meet global anti-counterfeiting standards used by top central banks.
International companies are expected to return the final designs by December, allowing SBP to prepare detailed approval documentation.
Approval Timeline for Pakistan’s New Currency Note Series
After receiving the finalized designs:
- State Bank Board will first review and approve the new designs.
- Final approval will then be sent to the Federal Government, expected in January.
- Printing of the new currency notes will begin only after government approval.
As of now, SBP has not announced any launch date because the design finalization process is still ongoing.
Clarification on Rumors & Public Speculation
Senior journalist Tanveer Malik confirmed that much of the recent buzz on social media came from an older statement made by SBP’s Governor during a monetary policy briefing. He emphasized:
- There has been no official SBP update announcing that old currency will be discontinued.
- No instructions have been issued for the public to deposit old notes.
- When new notes are officially introduced, the public will be informed well in advance.
Therefore, rumors circulating online about sudden currency replacement are false and misleading.
How New Currency Notes Are Planned & Printed
Printing Pakistan’s new currency notes involves multiple stages, each performed under strict confidentiality and security.
1. Estimating National Currency Needs
SBP first determines how many notes will be required based on:
- Expected increase in public demand
- Replacement of old and damaged notes
- Total currency in circulation
2. Designing the Notes
The design phase involves highlighting:
- National heritage
- Landmarks
- Culture
- Notable personalities
3. Adding Advanced Security Features
Modern currency requires sophisticated layers of protection, such as:
- Watermark portraits
- Security threads embedded inside the paper
- Color-shifting ink visible at different angles
- Raised tactile printing detectable by touch
- Micro lettering readable only under magnification
These features significantly reduce counterfeiting.
4. Use of Special Banknote Paper
Pakistan’s banknote paper consists of:
- 100% pure cotton fiber
- Pre-embedded watermark
- Pre-inserted security thread
This makes it more durable than normal paper and very difficult to fake.
5. Printing at Specialized Government Press
All Pakistani currency is produced by the Security Printing Corporation, where the environment is highly restricted to prevent unauthorized access.
The printing involves:
- Offset printing
- Intaglio printing
- Application of holograms
- Serial numbering
- Final quality checks
Public Awareness & Exchange of Old Notes
If new currency notes are approved for circulation, SBP will:
- Launch a nationwide awareness campaign
- Explain security features
- Provide instructions for exchanging older notes
- Give citizens ample time to deposit outdated currency
No one will be required to exchange notes suddenly or without notice.
What Pakistanis Should Expect Next
Pakistan’s transition to new high-security notes is expected to enhance the security, durability, and global acceptability of the currency. The new series is still under development, and no official date has been announced for its introduction.
Once approved, Pakistan will join the growing list of countries updating their currency systems to reduce counterfeiting and improve public confidence.
