Russia’s World Cup banknote sought after in HCM City
Many people in Ho Chi Minh City are hunting for the new Russian 100-ruble banknote celebrating the 2018 FIFA World Cup, sending price of the commemorative polymer through the roof.
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The front side and the back of the new Russian 100-ruble commemorative FIFA banknote celebrating the 2018 World Cup. Photo: Tuoi Tre
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The country’s first polymer note is centered around the theme of one generation of athletes inspiring the dreams and aspirations of the next.
The commemorative note has received many praises for its excellent quality with polymer material and intriguing design upon its introduction.
The front side of the banknote depicts a boy admiring the legendary goalkeeper Lev Yashin sprawling to save a ball, while the reverse side features a flying soccer ball, symbolizing the globe with the map of Russia highlighted on it.
The names of the 11 host cities of this year’s World Cup are also featured on the bill, which is printed with a slew of football-themed security features, including holographic images that change colors when brought under ultraviolet light or seen under different angles and micro images of cheering fans.
A total of 20 million commemorative bills entered circulation before the start of the Cup, according to the RCB.
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The front side and the back of the new Russian 100-ruble commemorative FIFA banknote celebrating the 2018 World Cup. Photo: Russian Central Bank
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One Russian 100-ruble bill equals to about VND36,000 (US$1.58) as of June 20 exchange rate.
The special banknotes are also available in Vietnam, at even heftier prices.
Shortly after the World Cup kicked off in Russia, the commemorative note was put on sale for VND350,000-400,000 (US$15.4-U$17.6) in Vietnam.
The souvenir reached Chi Minh City’s market on June 19, with traders asking for VND250,000 (US$11) apiece.
In spite of the escalating price, people are in a thirst for this new polymer money.
Tan T., a Ho Chi Minh City resident, had placed an order of a number of the Russian 100-ruble notes and received the products on June 17, after a long time waiting.
“Many people have asked to purchase this special banknote, which is considered ‘hottest’ among money collectors now,” he said.
Tan T. also revealed to Tuoi Tre that he sold out all of the banknotes within two days.
The World Cup banknote is also available for sale on social media, with traders claiming they will be able to restock by the end of this month.