Currency
SICPA is a trusted global security partner to central banks and high-security printers. For over seven decades, SICPA has established itself as a leading developer and supplier of security ink technologies, protecting the majority of the world’s banknotes from the threats of fraud and counterfeiting.
Our comprehensive portfolio encompasses inks developed for a wide range of printing processes including intaglio, offset, silkscreen, gravure, flexography and numbering, as well as solutions tailored for varnish protection and theft deterrence systems.
Our technology supports all levels of authentication – from features detectable by the public, covert solutions for controllers and inspectors, or machine-readable authentication through automated systems, to solutions exclusively reserved for issuing authorities and forensic investigators.
Yet our mission goes beyond providing ink solutions.
160+ currencies
are protected by SICPA security inks
Challenges
The banknote industry is undergoing continuous technological evolution, aiming to better serve the requirements of all cash cycle stakeholders.
At the core of these developments are people’s needs for trust, efficiency, durability, and flexibility. Innovation is key to the rising challenges brought along by the emerging future.
Banknotes are high-technology products that incorporate an average of 20 security features. They pose a formidable barrier to counterfeiting, making cash the most secure payment method available. While other payment means rely on technology infrastructures and external networks, cash stands apart with its built-in protection, enabling payment anywhere, anytime, and to anyone.
Innovation remains key to preserving the confidence people have in their banknotes. SICPA provides cutting-edge technologies and theft-deterrence solutions to stay one step ahead of criminals and protect banknotes at every stage of the cash cycle.
Automated banknote processing systems now rely on machine-readable features to handle currency. This advancement has led to a new generation of banknotes featuring luminescent, infrared, and magnetic inks. Such inks and features play a vital role in enhancing the efficiency of banknote automation.
While each country's currency requirements may be unique, central banks worldwide share a common goal: to extend the lifespan of banknotes, ensuring their quality and functionality last as long as possible.
The adoption of protective varnishing solutions, as well as the choice of substrate or printing technique profoundly influence the overall longevity of banknotes. SICPA helps designers and central banks optimise the architecture of banknotes to ensure a better durability.
A durable banknote is a determining factor of an efficient and sustainable cash cycle.
With the constant arrival of new possibilities and technologies, the banknote industry is also facing the challenge of payment digitalisation. SICPA leverages its expertise and deep understanding of the market to provide guidance to central banks regarding the issuance of CBDC. Our Nabatech joint-venture is dedicated to this mission, enabling us to offer flexible solutions for all forms of currency.
Solutions & Services
SICPA's comprehensive solutions are tailored for all aspects of the cash ecosystem, ranging from security features and protective varnish to staining inks. Our offer also includes advisory and technical support services for our partners and customers.
Case Studies
Explore the tangible impacts of our solutions
Discover how our products and services not only contribute to making banknotes more secure and efficient but can also be used to foster inclusivity among communities.
Echo – The Tactile Project
The tactility of banknotes is a key element for public authentication. This unique “banknote feel” empowers users to intuitively discern the authenticity of a banknote, thanks to a combination of specific substrate and intaglio printing technique. Besides, tactile features play an essential role to enhance the inclusivity of banknotes, as tactile marks enable people with visual impairments to identify banknote denominations only by touch.
In collaboration with a panel of researchers and designers, SICPA developed an intuitive system of intaglio-printed tactile marks to help the visually impaired distinguish banknotes quickly and effectively. The study is based on user experience and resulted in recommendations on the integration of tactile marks and the development of an optimised tactile system with intuitive sensing.
The Swiss Banknote series
The latest Swiss banknote series integrates the most sophisticated security features and incorporates a wide variety of SICPA security inks and technologies, including offset, silkscreen, intaglio, magnetic and numbering inks as well as varnish protection.
Each denomination reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, paying tribute to Switzerland’s rich cultural heritage while embracing modern security and aesthetic elements. From the majestic Alps to renowned Swiss scientists and artists, the banknotes capture the essence of a nation that values both its traditions and its forward-thinking progress.
The design is a testament to the Swiss dedication to precision, craftsmanship, and innovation, making these banknotes not just a means of exchange but also a canvas of Swiss culture and creativity.
Recognised as one of the world’s most secure currencies, this series has set a new milestone in the history of banknote development, demonstrating SICPA’s commitment to excellence. The 10 and 50 Franc banknotes received the prestigious “Banknote of the Year” distinction awarded by the IBNS.
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