SARB Banknotes – South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has announced the official release of upgraded R50 and R100 banknotes mid-May 2025, featuring enhanced security elements to combat counterfeiting and ensure public trust in the national currency. This marks one of the most significant updates to the currency in recent years, affecting millions of daily transactions across the country.
The updated notes are part of SARB’s continuous drive to maintain the integrity, durability, and security of South African banknotes, while incorporating advanced technology in line with global standards.
Why SARB Is Updating the R50 and R100 SARB Banknotes
The redesign and security upgrade of these denominations come after a surge in counterfeit incidents and technological advancements in anti-fraud measures.
- R50 and R100 notes are among the most circulated notes in SA
- Older versions were easier targets for forgeries
- SARB aims to ensure greater public confidence in the currency
- These notes now include tactile features for the visually impaired
- The changes reflect modern design elements and improved durability
- A multi-year review led to the 2025 rollout after rigorous testing
- SARB worked with global and local security printing experts
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Key Features of the New R50 and R100 Notes
The new banknotes are not just visually updated — they feature some of the most advanced security elements ever introduced in South African currency.
- Enhanced colour-shifting ink on numerals
- Micro-lettering difficult to replicate
- Security threads embedded in the paper
- Tactile raised lines for visually impaired individuals
- Hidden images visible only under specific lighting
- Watermark adjustments using Madiba’s portrait
- Latent images that shift with note movement
Comparison of Old vs. New R50 & R100 Banknotes
| Feature | Old R50 Note | New R50 Note | Old R100 Note | New R100 Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Security Thread | Basic Thread | 3D Motion Thread | Basic Thread | 3D Motion Thread |
| Colour-Shifting Ink | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Raised Lines (Tactile) | None | Present | None | Present |
| Micro-lettering | Minimal | Detailed | Minimal | Detailed |
| Latent Image | Absent | Yes | Absent | Yes |
| Watermark Design | Simple Madiba Portrait | High-Definition Portrait | Simple Madiba Portrait | High-Definition Portrait |
| Visual Contrast & Colors | Basic | Vibrant & Updated | Basic | Vibrant & Updated |
| Anti-copy Features | Weak | Strong | Weak | Strong |
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Public Usage & Circulation Impact
| Aspect | R50 Note Update | R100 Note Update |
|---|---|---|
| First Release Date | Mid-May 2025 | Mid-May 2025 |
| Existing Notes Valid? | Yes, still legal tender | Yes, still legal tender |
| Expected Phase-Out Period | 12 months | 12 months |
| Primary Usage Zones | National | National |
| Available at ATMs? | Gradually after May | Gradually after May |
| Retail Sector Adjustment | Ongoing | Ongoing |
| Banking Instructions | Issued to all banks | Issued to all banks |
| Public Education Campaigns | Active | Active |
How to Authenticate the New Notes Yourself
Members of the public can easily verify the authenticity of the new R50 and R100 notes using a simple “Look – Feel – Tilt” method:
- Look: Hold the note to the light to check for embedded threads and watermarks.
- Feel: Tactile lines on the edges can be felt by touch.
- Tilt: Latent and color-changing images will shift as the note moves.
FAQs About the SARB Banknotes
Q1: Are my old notes still valid?
Yes. All existing R50 and R100 banknotes will remain legal tender until they are gradually phased out.
Q2: Will ATMs dispense the new notes immediately?
Not all. ATM networks are being updated throughout May and June 2025.
Q3: What if I get a fake note?
Report it to your nearest SAPS station or bank. Do not attempt to use counterfeit money.
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Q4: Can visually impaired persons identify the new notes better?
Yes. Tactile lines help with denomination identification.
Q5: How can I report issues with new banknotes?
Contact SARB’s currency services division directly.
Q6: Can retailers refuse old notes?
No. Old notes will remain valid until SARB announces otherwise.
Q7: Is this part of a wider currency update?
Possibly. SARB is assessing updates to all banknotes in future phases.
Departmental Contact Details for Public Inquiries
| Department | Contact Info |
|---|---|
| South African Reserve Bank | 0800 87 22 77 (Toll-Free) |
| Email Support | [email protected] |
| Website | www.resbank.co.za |
| Report Counterfeits | [email protected] |
| Physical Address | 370 Helen Joseph Street, Pretoria, 0002 |
| Operating Hours | Monday–Friday: 08:00–16:00 |
| WhatsApp Helpline | Coming Soon (Announced by end of May 2025) |
Implications for Businesses and the Public
Retailers, banks, and the general public are encouraged to:
- Train staff on identifying new banknotes
- Educate customers on note authentication
- Update ATM machines and payment terminals
- Stay informed via official SARB updates
Conclusion of SARB Banknotes
The rollout of South Africa’s new R50 and R100 banknotes represents a strategic move by SARB to protect the nation’s economy from rising counterfeit threats and ensure currency confidence. With state-of-the-art security upgrades, public education, and a clear phase-in strategy, these new notes are expected to strengthen financial security for millions of South Africans.
