National Bank of Poland rules for exchanging damaged banknotes

Damaged or torn banknotes in Poland can still be exchanged for value, provided they meet specific criteria set by the National Bank of Poland (NBP). According to NBP regulations, the amount of value recovered depends on the remaining surface area of the note.

If more than 75 percent of the original surface area remains in a single piece and the denomination is recognizable, the banknote can be exchanged for its full value. If between 45 and 75 percent of the surface remains, the holder may receive half of the nominal value.

Banks can perform these exchanges if they are certain of the note's authenticity. However, if authenticity is doubted or if there is suspicion of intentional damage, the bank may refuse the exchange and refer the matter to the NBP. For damaged coins, exchange is possible if key elements like the core or ring are preserved. Direct exchange through the NBP is also possible via personal visit or mail, with a limit of 2,000 PLN per shipment.