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How to Find What Country Foreign Currency Is From?

Foreign currency, especially coins, are popular collector's items. Whether you collect foreign currency as a hobby or for business, knowing where the currency is from is an integral part of the process. The country of origin along with the age of the currency help determine its value on today's market. A few different methods may be used to find out what country foreign currency is from. These methods will help solve the mystery of the country of origin without too much difficulty in most cases.

Things You'll Need

Internet connection

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the foreign currency for any words or phrases that may help identify its country of origin. Compare the words to an online list of phrases found on bills and coins to make a positive identification (see Resources.) Many currencies display the name of the country they come from.
- 2
  Look for the name or symbol of the currency. For example, U.S. Dollars feature the "$" symbol while Japanese Yen feature a "¥." The symbol is displayed on many forms of currency and will narrow down the search.
- 3
  Compare the currency to a database of online scans of different currencies from around the world (see Resources.) Images of most modern currencies are available online and may speed up the identification process.
- 4
  Consult a local expert. Many cities have antique dealers and collectors associations which may be able to assist you with the identification. Local libraries may also have useful contacts or information.
- 5
  Take the currency to a pawn broker. These establishments usually have special contacts for expert appraisals of obscure items such as foreign currency.

Coin Collecting