1. Early Origins:
- The earliest known examples of paper money originated in China during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). These early forms of paper currency, known as "flying money" or "jiaozi," were issued by private merchants and used for commercial transactions.
2. 宋朝的交子:
- In the 10th century during the Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE), the Chinese government began issuing official paper money known as "jiaozi." These official notes were backed by the government and widely used for trade.
3. 欧洲纸币的出现：
- In medieval Europe, paper money emerged much later compared to China. One of the earliest examples was issued in 1661 by the Bank of Stockholm in Sweden. These notes were initially handwritten and then became standardized with printed notes in the 18th century.
4. 英国纸币的兴起：
- In England, the Bank of England began printing paper money in the late 17th century. The design and quality of banknotes evolved significantly throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, incorporating watermarks and other security features.
5. 美国纸币的诞生:
- In the United States, the first federally issued paper money dates back to the American Revolutionary War when the Continental Congress authorized the printing of paper currency known as "Continental Dollars" in 1775. These notes were largely unsuccessful due to concerns about their value and widespread counterfeiting.
6. 现代纸币的出现:
- In the 19th and 20th centuries, the development of advanced printing techniques, such as intaglio printing, and the integration of security features like watermarks, embedded fibers, and specialized inks enhanced the security of paper currency.
7. Plastic Banknotes:
- In recent years, several countries have introduced polymer or plastic banknotes, which are more durable, resistant to counterfeiting, and water-resistant. Australia was the first country to issue polymer notes in 1996, and since then, other nations have followed suit.
It's worth noting that the specific dates and details of paper money's development can vary depending on the country and its currency history. The evolution of paper currency reflects technological advancements, changing economic systems, and the need to ensure the security and reliability of money in different societies.