The upgraded version of DataVault – the online database of banknotes that is included within the annual subscription to Currency News - is now available. Developed in conjunction with International Reference Systems, it provides a comprehensive and up-to-date catalogue of all the world’s circulating banknotes. All the features of the old version are there, including an archive of back issues of Currency News), but there are a number of new benefits too.

For example, images of the notes have been enhanced and can be enlarged for closer examination. There is more detailed information on the security features of each, and the images are available under IR as well as UV and normal light. A unique advanced search facility, meanwhile enables the database to be searched by a wide variety of parameters, including country, currency, ISO code, text, size, colour, date of issue and security features, making DataVault invaluable for research as well as reference purposes.

DataVault is a work-in-progress. Currently available in English and Russian, coming soon will be Spanish, Italian, French and German versions. It will also include links from each country section to the currency pages on the websites of the relevant issuing authorities, and by the end of year will include a database version of the 4th edition of the Directory of Currency Suppliers.

DataVault is available via www.irs-banknotes.com. New log-in details are required to access the site. These are the process of being issued, but if you haven’t yet received yours, or want to purchase additional user licences (at £50 each), please contact Kim Del Pellegrino ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ). Site licences for DataVault, enabling it to be accessed by everyone within your company via your intranet, are available too, as are customized versions of DataVault that you can tailor to your specific requirements,

Also available is a forensic version, featuring 65,000 ultra high resolution images that, in addition to the characteristics available in the standard version, display IR and anti-stokes luminescence features and magnetic properties.  Contact Currency News for further information.