New banknotes

A new polymer-plastic £5 banknote went into circulation in the United Kingdom on Sept. 15. The bill is more durable and more secure than traditional cotton-paper currency. Starting May 17, 2017, the old paper £5 notes will no longer be accepted by merchants, though holders always will be able to exchange them for the plastic notes at any Bank of England location. Plastic £10 notes are to appear in summer 2017, with £20 notes by 2020.
Australia released a new, polymer AUD5 note on Sept. 1. The bill has raised dots to assist the blind in determining its value.