August 13, 2015 – The Riksbank is prepared to launch the largest banknote and coin changeover in Sweden’s history. The first new banknotes will be issued in October 2015. Ahead of this, the Riksbank will initiate a major information campaign. This will include the launch of an app with a banknote game and support for the visually-impaired, as well as exhibitions on the new banknotes at the six different locations in Sweden associated with the personalities depicted on the banknotes. At the end of July, the Riksbank launched the free app “Kolla pengarna” (Check your money).
This teaches how to recognise a genuine banknote and provides information on the banknote and coin changeover in Swedish, English and 29 other languages. There is also a game that involves sorting banknotes according to which are new and the dates on which the old ones become invalid. The faster they are sorted, the more points are scored. The app also provides support for the visually-impaired, who can use it to scan a banknote and have the denomination read aloud by Governor of the Riksbank Stefan Ingves.
“One-quarter of Sweden’s population is still unaware that Sweden will be getting new banknotes and coins. We will be using several different channels to reach as many people as possible. The app will make it possible to have information easily at hand and will provide assistance for the visually-impaired. A banknote game in the app offers a different and fun way to learn important dates in the changeover”, says Christina Wejshammar, head of the Cash and Payment Systems Department.
In September, every household in Sweden will receive a pamphlet on the banknote and coin changeover through its letterbox.
Information on the new banknotes and coins is available on the Riksbank website.
In addition, there is an information film on the banknote and coin changeover, in Swedish.
In August and September, the Riksbank will be holding exhibitions on the new banknotes at the six different locations in Sweden associated with the personalities on the new banknotes.
Persons wishing to be reminded of important dates during the banknote and coin changeover can get push notifications via the app or reminders via text message by texting riksbanken start to 71120.