Use of Bank Note Images

The Bank recognizes that people want to print images of our bank notes. Owing to legal implications, it isn’t a do-it-yourself project. But it is pretty simple:

• For numismatic needs, school assignments and the like, we have a gallery of images to choose from.
• For advertisers and journalists with specialized needs, a commercial reproduction policy must be respected.

Commercial Reproduction of Bank Note Images

The reproduction of bank note images is protected by the Criminal Code and the Copyright Act. Both empower the Bank to authorize reproductions as it deems appropriate.

The Bank recognizes that currency is an important symbol for Canadians. Advertisers, educators, journalists and numismatists may wish to reproduce images of bank notes, in whole or in part, for special purposes.

Our policy requires that anyone wishing to reproduce bank note images first obtain the Bank’s written permission.

The Bank may, at its sole discretion, consent to the reproduction if there is no risk that the resulting image could be mistaken for a genuine note or misused by counterfeiters. Another key consideration is that the proposed image must not tarnish the dignity and importance of bank notes to Canadians or the reputation of the Bank.

Exception

Permission is not required for film or video productions showing a general indication of currency and where there is no danger of images contributing to counterfeiting (e.g., for a television commercial).

Promotional Coupons and Vouchers

The Bank will not approve requests to produce promotional coupons or vouchers bearing any likeness to a Canadian bank note. These could be mistaken for genuine notes, and/or diminish the importance of bank notes to Canadians.