The Cabbage Coins Podcast

Ep.47 - Exploring World Banknotes with Eric Malek #numismatics #worldcurrencies #banknotes #coins

June 17, 2026·1h 5m
Episode Description from the Publisher

Discover the fascinating world of banknotes with Eric Malek, a seasoned catalog writer and collector specializing in global currency. In this episode, Eric shares insights into world banknote collecting, grading, rare finds, and tips for enthusiasts around the globe.Eric’s journey from coin collecting to world paper money, highlighting how exposure and interest increase expertise.The significance of grading and encapsulation: understanding PMG and EPQ designations, similarities to coin grading, and how rarity affects value.Notable banknotes from Southern Africa, Bermuda, Somalia, Ceylon (Sri Lanka), Suriname, and China, including historical context and collectible appeal.Serialization nuances and serial number significance, including repeater and special prefixes like "onion" in Bermuda notes.Modern banknotes made of polymer, their durability, serial number pairing, and desirability among collectors.The importance of small details in paper money, with emphasis on serial number variations, signatures, and overprints.The concept of specimen notes, their purpose, and their rarity—comparable, in some aspects, to proof coins.Popular global currency shows and auctions: Heritage Auctions, MIF Events in the Netherlands, and major coin and banknote expos worldwide.Tips for new collectors: understanding catalogs like Pick numbers, identifying valuable Chinese notes, and leveraging technology and apps for evaluation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to World Banknotes04:35 The Journey into Banknote Collecting08:36 Understanding Banknote Grading12:32 Exploring Southern African Banknotes16:38 The Beauty of Somali Banknotes20:31 Ceylon: A Historical Perspective24:30 The Significance of Pick Numbers28:24 Bermuda Notes and Their Variations35:52 The Significance of Unique Currency Designs40:32 Gut Health and Its Surprising Connection to Currency41:06 Exploring South Korean Currency44:05 The Allure of Suriname's Unique Notes47:59 Understanding Specimen Notes53:02 Navigating the World of Chinese Currency57:32 Tips for Collecting World CurrencyWhere to find Tony and Cabbage Coins:https://cabbagecoins.com/Email: tony@cabbagecoins.comIG: @cabbage_coinsHow to contact Eric:mlb104635@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music - "Obverse Fields" by Timothy GryckiewiczCheck out our new collector services page:https://cabbagecoins.com/collectorser...Also check out Manrong Collectibles LLC for amazing world banknotes:hellomanrong.comPlease subscribe and like and comment

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