The number of counterfeit Czech banknotes and coins decreased

In 2024, the CNB detected a total of 1 158 counterfeit and altered Czech money, 704 banknotes and 454 coins. Compared to 2023, this is a decrease of approximately two thirds.

In 2024, the CNB identified 688 Czech banknotes with a total value of almost CZK 1.2 million as counterfeit. The most common type of banknotes were 2,000 koruna (38%), which are the most common banknotes in circulation. This was followed by 1,000 crowns (19%), 5,000 crowns (13%) and 100 crowns (13%).

The highest number of counterfeit banknotes (293) was detected in Prague, which has a high number of cash transactions and the densest network of banks. Most of the counterfeit banknotes were detected during processing in banks, then in exchange offices and, to a lesser extent, in shops.

Of the coins, 452 counterfeit 20 crowns with a total value of CZK 9 040 were seized. They have a relatively high quality mintage, which deteriorates from the centre to the edges.

People may also encounter foreign currency counterfeits. In the Czech Republic, these are most often euros and US dollars. Counterfeits of these globally distributed currencies are usually of higher quality and can therefore be difficult to recognise.

Last year, the CNB identified a total of 1 200 counterfeit and altered foreign banknotes and coins as counterfeit. In 812 cases these were euros, and in 379 cases they were counterfeit US dollars.

People can get to know Czech money and its security features in more detail at the CNB Visitor Centre in the centre of Prague. Entrance is free of charge. Information is also available on the CNB website in the Banknotes and Coins section.

1 EUR aprox. 25 CZK now.

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• banknotes

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