Smart Banknotes Defined: Features and Criteria

A smart banknote is a physical banknote on a paper or polymer substrate that can communicate with an electronic network. A smart banknote is denominated and has the physical properties of a traditional banknote in size, feel, appearance, and etc. It is not a rigid, plastic card such as may be used in present credit or debit transactions. The purpose of a smart banknote is to act as a hybrid that can function either as a definitive or an electronic instrument, depending upon the immediate need. Such functionality will allow a smart banknote to act as a transitional device between traditional payment systems and electronic and crypto-based payment systems.

This paper presents an overview of smart banknotes, including their history to date, their differentiation from paper crypto wallets, and their need to mimic traditional banknotes.