Features To Look For On The New N100 Commemorative Centenary Banknote
The President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR unveiled the N100 centenary
commemorative banknote on 12th November, 2014. Find below the basic look,
feel and tilt security features for easy identification of a genuine note. Kindly
follow these simple steps to make sure your banknotes are genuine. Remember,
do not rely on just one feature, check a few.
1. Check the paper and the raised embossed print: By running your fingers
across the front of the new note, you will feel the raised prints in areas such
as “Central Bank of Nigeria”, the image of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the
N100 numeral on the top left and bottom corners.
2. Check the Motion thread: This security thread is embedded on the
banknote. It appears as green dashes in the front of the new note with
“100” and Nigerian flag moving when tilted.
3. Check the water mark: Hold the note up to the light with the front of the
note facing you. In the clear area on the right, you will see an image of
Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s portrait together with a 100 numeral. Any
banknote that does not contain a watermark is not genuine.
4. Check the Optical Variable Magnetic Ink (OVMI Spark): A rolling bar that
changes colour from green to purple when tilted. This feature is
superimposed on two squares with a manila, which are strategically placed
at the front of the banknote.
5. Check the QR (Quick Response) Code: Digitalized barcode that tells the
centenary story when scanned with an internet enabled mobile device or
an Ipad. It is located at the back of the note.
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6. Check the Serial Number: A unique 7 digit novel serial numbering,
consisting of letters and numbers printed on the front side of the new note.
The horizontal number is conical, that is, it grows in height from left to
right.
7. Check the See through feature: located on the front of the note (left
corner), effect is produced on coconut.
8. Tactile marks for the visually impaired: Pronounced raised lines on the left
and right corner on the front of the banknotes.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Centenary N100 banknote
1. What is the core mandate of CBN in relation to currency management?
The CBN Act of 2007 charges the Bank with the responsibility for the issuance and
management of the legal tender currency.
2. What is the role of CBN with respect to Banknotes?
The Bank is charged with the responsibility to plan for the printing, issuance and
management of the legal tender currency in Nigeria. In addition, global best
practice demands that countries review their currencies every 5-8 years to be
ahead of counterfeiters.
3. Why a new N100 banknote at this time?
The Rationale for the introduction of the new N100 commemorative banknote is
to celebrate Nigeria’s centenary (100 years of existence) 1914-2014.
4. How durable is the new N100 commemorative banknote?
The redesign of the notes is aimed at making it more secure; to enhance its
durability to last longer in circulation and to streamline its aesthetic and security
features.
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5. What will happen to the existing Banknotes in circulation?
The existing N100 banknotes will circulate side by side with the new banknote.
Both banknotes are legal tender and acceptable.
6. What features should I check?
When checking your banknote, do not rely on just one security feature, check a
few of the ones described in this leaflet. Feel, tilt and look at the note in your
hand closely.
7. What should I do if I suspect a banknote to be fake or counterfeit?
You should refuse to accept it and ask for another banknote. Remember that it is
a criminal offence to use and pass on a counterfeit note knowingly. If you suspect
any note to be counterfeit, report to the police as soon as possible. They will send
the note to the Central Bank of Nigeria for analysis.
8. How can a visually impaired person recognize the new banknotes as
genuine?
The new N100 banknote has pronounced raised lines (tactile lines) on the left and
right edges on the front of the banknote. The denomination numerals on the
front top left and bottom corners of the banknote are more embossed to assist
the visually impaired.
9. Is there a Jewish symbol (Star of David) on the new N100 banknote?
No. The Jewish symbol (Star of David) is two triangles and is not on the new N100
banknote. However, there are two squares and a manila.
10.How can I get the new N100 commemorative banknote?
You can get it in your bank effective from the date of issuance.
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11.How can I use the QR-Code to check if the new N100 commemorative
banknote is genuine?
Download a QR-Code scanner with an internet enabled phone or handheld
device. Use the device to scan the barcode on the new N100 banknote and a brief
history of Nigeria’s journey from 1914 to date will appear.
12.Are the security features on the new commemorative N100 Banknotes
too many?
No, the security features are meant to secure the banknote and deter
counterfeiters.
13.Why remove the Ajami script and Zuma rock on the new N100
commemorative banknote?
When reviewing or restructuring a banknote, aesthetics such as symbols and
features are often changed to stay ahead of counterfeiters.
Culled from CBN Website.

Rabbish!! Please bring back our old currency. This new note looks so like kids drawing paper. IMO tho.

Even if na star of David nko? C dus yusles arabic on our naira notes we complain ni?
Sum of dem ds islamic north no de asept d note surprising even in adamawa and taraba states too.
Walahi when PGJ is reelected we shall delete all those devilish arabic inscriptions on our naira notes.
If u refuse b saudi arabia

you really study the new banknote, kudos!