Chinese Foreign Exchange Certificate Value Guide

The 100 Yuan Foreign Exchange Certificate is a significant relic of China's transitional economy, issued by the Bank of China to manage foreign currency. Featuring a striking depiction of the Great Wall, these notes were the exclusive legal tender for international visitors before the dual-currency system was abolished in 1994.

What Is Chinese Foreign Exchange Certificate Worth?

The typical price range for Chinese Foreign Exchange Certificate is $150 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the paper, with uncirculated notes commanding the highest market prices near $150.
• The presence of crisp corners and the absence of folds, pinholes, or ink stains significantly impact the final valuation.
• Market demand for the 100 Yuan denomination, which is often more sought after by collectors than lower FEC denominations.
• The historical significance of the 1979 series as the primary high-value note used during China's early 'Opening Up' period.

How to Identify Chinese Foreign Exchange Certificate?

• Verify the presence of the 'Bank of China' title in both English and Chinese characters at the top of the note.
• Check for the specific 1979 series date and the detailed engraving of the Great Wall on the reverse side.
• Examine the paper quality for standard security watermarks used by the Bank of China during the 1979-1994 era.
• Ensure the serial numbers are printed in the correct typeface and ink consistency typical of official FEC production.

History of Chinese Foreign Exchange Certificate

Foreign Exchange Certificates, or FECs, were a special currency issued by the Bank of China between 1979 and 1994. They were used by foreign visitors to China and were exchangeable for local Renminbi. The intention was to control the circulation of foreign currency within China and to prevent a black market for foreign exchange. FECs were phased out as China opened up its economy and integrated further into the global financial system.