Advance security features added to new banknotes

(Macao 06 July 2005) Seventy millions new banknotes, with total valued 8.15 billion, will be put into circulation in 8 August. The Executive Council today discussed the by-law, permitting BNU (Banco Nacional Ultramarino) to issue new MOP10, MOP20, MOP100, MOP500 and MOP1000 banknotes. The spokeman of the Executive Council, Mr Tong Chi Kin, said base on the original design, advanced security features were added to enhance their anti-counterfeiting capabilities. Invisible fluorescent fiber and two special techniques for prevent counterfeiting were added Mr Tong said. Meanwhile, other characteristics which can be identificated by eyes and hands including a very bright highlight watermark, a line which gives embossed feel, etc. Mr. Tong said since the exiting banknotes have been circulated for a period, and in order to prevent counterfeiting, it was necessary to launch new banknotes, which including 2,500 for MOP10; 2,000 for MOP20; 1500 for MOP100; 800 for MOP500 and 200 for MOP1000.