National Bank of Poland currency exchange regulations

The National Bank of Poland (NBP) maintains specific regulations regarding the exchange of damaged or counterfeit currency.

For damaged banknotes, the amount of value recovered is determined by the remaining surface area. If more than 75 percent of the original surface remains in a single piece and the denomination is recognizable, the note can be exchanged for its full value. If the remaining surface is between 45 and 75 percent, the holder may receive half of the nominal value. Exchanges can be conducted at banks or directly through the NBP via mail or personal visit, with a limit of 2,000 PLN per shipment. Banks may refuse exchanges if authenticity is doubted or if there is suspicion of intentional damage.

To assist in identifying counterfeit notes, guidelines suggest examining paper texture, the characteristic rustling sound, watermarks, security threads, and elements that change appearance when tilted. A legitimate watermark should be visible when held up to the light rather than appearing as a mere print.