According to the official Guinness World Records website, the highest denomination banknote ever issued is not from the United States but rather from Hungary. This extraordinary specimen has intrigued coin collectors and numismatists alike.
This record-breaking banknote dates back to June 3, 1946, which means it has held its title for several decades. Given the history of currency and inflation, it is possible that a new record may emerge in the coming years.
The banknote in question is the Hungarian million billion pengő, also referred to as the 100 quintillion pengő, equivalent to a staggering 1 followed by 20 zeros. Interestingly, this record-breaking banknote is still available for purchase online.
The eBay platform currently features listings for the Hungary 100 quintillion pengő from 1946, with several specimens already sold. As of September 2024, there are nine of these banknotes available for collectors. Potential buyers can either purchase one immediately or add it to their watchlist while they save up.
The market price for a Hungary 100 quintillion pengő from 1946 is approximately $660 on eBay. For those interested in owning a piece of Guinness World Record history, this is the investment required.
It is essential to note that this banknote was officially withdrawn from circulation, meaning no new specimens will be issued. The banknote was printed during a period of extreme hyperinflation in Hungary, which prompted the need for such a high denomination.
Following this episode of hyperinflation, Hungary undertook a process of remonetization, introducing the forint as its new currency. This new currency was exchanged at an astronomical rate of 1 for 400 octillion pengő, a figure that includes 29 zeros. The economic devastation wrought by World War II necessitated these measures to stabilize Hungary’s financial system.
As the legacy of the million billion pengő continues, it serves as a historical reminder of the challenges faced during one of the most tumultuous periods in Hungary’s economic history.
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