Chemistry of banknotes and coins from the time of our great-grandparents to the present day

The paper examines the importance of chemistry in the production and protection of banknotes and coins from antiquity to the present day. It describes the historical development of money – from natural materials to gold and silver coins, and later paper and polymer banknotes. It emphasizes that modern banknotes are not made of ordinary paper, but of special materials such as linen, cotton and polypropylene, which provide both durability and protection. Complex chemical inks and elements such as iron and strontium are used. Coins are made from alloys containing copper, nickel and zinc, which are resistant to corrosion. The author also shares a personal experience with a 10-lev banknote, demonstrating its chemical characteristics. The conclusion is that chemistry is an integral part of daily life, even in objects that we often take for granted.