Banknotes are a fascinating look into the artistry and culture of the countries of the world.
To get started, you can spend hours exploring Ron Wise’s database, Tom Chao’s galleries, Islamic Bank Notes, KCShop’s gallery, and ATS Notes.
There are several resources for collectors as well, here and here.
For some of the artistic elements of paper money, you can read Michael Bierut’s analysis of the best and worst paper money, the designs of the new Philippine bank notes, a primer on paper money art, see some downright weird and amazing uses for paper money in art, and a group of collages made or influenced by currency.
For the citizens of the Commonwealth among us, see how Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait has changed on the face of the various Commonwealth nations’ currencies.
If you’re feeling up to the task, you can help create a symbol for the Indian rupee.