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About Banknotes and Coins

As per the State Bank of Pakistan Order 1948, the State Bank of Pakistan was charged with the duty to regulate the issue of banknotes and keep reserves with a view to securing monetary stability in Pakistan and generally to operate the currency and credit system of the country to its advantage.

The State Bank of Pakistan Act 1956, with subsequent amendments, forms the basis of its operations today. In terms of Sections 24 to 35, the State Bank of Pakistan has the sole right to issue banknotes.

Currently, a new banknote series is in circulation which was introduced by the State Bank of Pakistan in 2005 with the introduction of 20-rupee denomination banknote followed by other denominations of 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000.

Banknotes

Currency Management Strategy

The SBP issued the currency management strategy for banks in August 2015 to:

  1. Bring the cash management function at par with international and regional best practices
  2. Ensure that banks have necessary capacity to detect counterfeit banknotes and thus ensure that no counterfeit banknote is issued by banks, and
  3. Improve the quality of banknotes in circulation

Under the strategy, all banks were advised to automate their currency operations across the country and issue only machine authenticated banknotes to the general public through their branches and ATMs. Banks were also advised to ensure end-to-end coverage of cash processing functions through high resolution cameras and retain the CCTV footage for at least 60 days. The CCTV footage is used to resolve disputes if any. The processing of banknotes through authentication machines, preservation of CCTV records and standardized packaging are aimed at ensuring that no counterfeit note is issued by banks and that the banks have the capacity to identify and block counterfeit notes if any enter the banking system. SBP cash monitoring teams also make surprise visits to banks’ branches and ATMs to assess compliance with CMS instructions. Non-compliant banks are heavily penalized.

Currency Management Strategy

The SBP issued the currency management strategy for banks in August 2015 to:

  1. Bring the cash management function at par with international and regional best practices
  2. Ensure that banks have necessary capacity to detect counterfeit banknotes and thus ensure that no counterfeit banknote is issued by banks, and
  3. Improve the quality of banknotes in circulation

Under the strategy, all banks were advised to automate their currency operations across the country and issue only machine authenticated banknotes to the general public through their branches and ATMs. Banks were also advised to ensure end-to-end coverage of cash processing functions through high resolution cameras and retain the CCTV footage for at least 60 days. The CCTV footage is used to resolve disputes if any. The processing of banknotes through authentication machines, preservation of CCTV records and standardized packaging are aimed at ensuring that no counterfeit note is issued by banks and that the banks have the capacity to identify and block counterfeit notes if any enter the banking system. SBP cash monitoring teams also make surprise visits to banks’ branches and ATMs to assess compliance with CMS instructions. Non-compliant banks are heavily penalized.

Banknote Packing Instructions

SBP has issued detailed instructions regarding Banknote Packing whereby the preparation of banknote packets and bundles has been standardized. Sorted cash is required to be packed into packets of 100 pieces and bundles of 10 packets each. The packets shall have a paper band with the seal of the CPC/processing bank whereas the bundles shall be shrink-wrapped along with the bank’s/CPC’s seal containing time and date of processing and machine operator’s code. These instructions are applicable for banknotes to be exchanged in interbank market and/or to be surrendered to SBPBSC.

Description Banknote Packing Instructions
Banknote Packing Instructions icon

Approved Banknote Processing Machines

TESTED BANKNOTE PROCESSING AND AUTHENTICATION MACHINES

In terms of SBP-FD Circular No. 1/2016 (para iii) banks are advised to finalize up to a maximum of three types (models) of machines that meet the SBP prescribed sorting/authentication standards and arrange a demo of the same at SBP BSC Karachi or Lahore offices. Banks may purchase any machine that satisfactorily sorts and authenticates the banknotes as per SBP sorting and authentication standards during the demo. Banks shall ensure that the machine selection process on these lines, including the demo at SBP, is completed by 30th June 2016.

The following banknote processing and authentication machines have been tested and were found to be working satisfactorily at the time of tests conducted at SBP BSC:

Machine Make Machine Brand Machine Model Approved Sorting Parameters Pockets / Stackers
Glory Japan UWF Series UWF-4 Sorting Parameters 4+1
Glory Japan UWF Series UWF-8 Sorting Parameters 8+1
LIDIX GL Series LIDIX GL-5 Sorting Parameters 4+1
GUAO Technology GUAO Technology GA-QFJ 4300 Sorting Parameters 3+1
GUAO Technology GUAO Technology GA-QFJ 3201 Sorting Parameters 2+1
LIDIX GL Series LIDIX GL-4 Sorting Parameters 3+1
Hitachi Hitachi iH-210 Sorting Parameters 2+1
Hitachi Hitachi ST-350 Sorting Parameters 3+1
GRG Banking CM Compact Series CM-300 (Compact) Sorting Parameters 3+1
G&D G&D BPS BPS C2-3 Sorting Parameters 3+1
G&D G&D BPS BPS C2-2 Sorting Parameters 2+1
GLORY Japan UW Series UW-500 Sorting Parameters 4+2
G&D G&D BPS BPS C4 Sorting Parameters 8+1
SBM Korea SB Series SB-5000 Sorting Parameters 4+1
G&D G&D Numeron Numeron F Sorting Parameters 2+1
SNBC SNBC-BNE BNE-S210 Sorting Parameters 2+1
SBM Korea SB Series SB-3000 Sorting Parameters 2+1
Glory Japan USF Series USF-300 Sorting Parameters 3+1
GRG Banking China CM Series CM-400 Sorting Parameters 4+1
GRG Banking CM Series CM–200 Sorting Parameters 2+1
G&D G&D Numeron Numeron CL Sorting Parameters 3+1
LIDIX LIDIX SL-250 Sorting Parameters 2+1
GRACETEK GRACETEK GT-31 Sorting Parameters 3+1
Hitachi Hitachi MS-4200 Sorting Parameters 4+2; (extendable to 8 pockets)
LIDIX GL Series LIDIX GL-9 Sorting Parameters 8+1
GUAO Technology GUAO Technology GA-QFJ-6400 Sorting Parameters 4+2
GRACETEK GRACETEK GT-21 Sorting Parameters 2+1
LIDIX LIDIX SL-250F Sorting Parameters 2+1
G&D G&D BPS BPS C5-5 C5-9 Sorting Parameters 4+1; (extendable to 8+1 pockets)
CMICO Chihua CBS-2001 Sorting Parameters 3+1
GRG Banking CM Series CM-200VN Sorting Parameters 2+1
GRG Banking CM Series CM-400N Sorting Parameters 4+2
LIDIX GL Series LIDIX GL-6 Pro Sorting Parameters 4+2 (extendable to 12 pockets)
G&D Pronote Pronote 2000 Sorting Parameters 2+1
G&D G&D BPS BPS C2-4 Sorting Parameters 4+1

TESTED BANKNOTE PROCESSING AND AUTHENTICATION MACHINES FOR BRANCH LEVEL OPERATIONS

Machine Make Machine Brand Machine Model Approved Sorting Parameters Pockets / Stackers
Hitachi Hitachi ST-150 Sorting Parameters 1+1
Magner Magner 175-FF Sorting Parameters 1+1
G&D G&D C Series G&D C1 Sorting Parameters 1+1
SeeTech ST Series ST - 150 NF Sorting Parameters 1+1
SNBC SNBC Series SNBC BNE-S110 Sorting Parameters 1+1
LIDIX LIDIX ML-2F Sorting Parameters 1+1
GRG Banking GRG Banking CM.100 Sorting Parameters 1+1
Hitachi Hitachi iH-110 Sorting Parameters 1+1
G&D Pronote Pronote 1.5F Sorting Parameters 1+1
LIDIX LIDIX JL-2F Sorting Parameters 1+1
GRACETEK GRACETEK GBS – 3500 Sorting Parameters 1+1
GUAO Technology GUAO Technology GA-QFJ2101A10 Sorting Parameters 1+1
LIDIX LIDIX ML-2FS Sorting Parameters 1+1
Kisan Korea Newton Series Newton 3-F Sorting Parameters 1+1

It may be noted that the above machines are for branch level operations only. Banks are not allowed to use these machines in their CPCs.

TESTED CASH RECYCLING ATMs

Cash recycling ATMs are machines that accept cash deposits by customers, the cash is then sorted and authenticated for disbursement to other customers.

The following ATMs to the extent of their capabilities regarding cash sorting and authentication have been tested and the results have been found satisfactory. The ATMs are listed for cash sorting and authentication only:

Make Brand Model Approved Sorting Parameters
Diebold Nixdorf Diebold Nixdorf DN 200H (RM4) Sorting Parameters
Hitachi Hitachi HT-2845-VS Sorting Parameters
Hyosung TNS MX Series MX8600S
MX8600ST
Sorting Parameters

It may be noted that regular ATMs without cash recycling capabilities are not required to be listed above.

TESTED CASH DEPOSIT MACHINES

Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs) authenticate and accept cash deposited by customers.

The following CDMs, to the extent of their capabilities regarding cash deposit and authentication, have been tested and the results have been found satisfactory. The CDMs are listed for cash deposit with authentication:

Make Brand Model Approved Sorting Parameters
GRG Banking GRG Banking P2600N Sorting Parameters
GRG Banking GRG Banking P2800NL Sorting Parameters
Wavetec Wavetec WT CQuick24 Sorting Parameters
TouchPoint Cadepo Cadepo 101 Sorting Parameters
SNBC SNBC BDM-500 Sorting Parameters
SNBC SNBC BDM-600 Sorting Parameters
Masterwork Automodules BEAM Delight BEAM Delight Sorting Parameters
Innovative Pvt. Ltd. i-Deposit i-Deposit Sorting Parameters

Annex-A to FD Circular No.04/2017 dated September 14, 2017

SBP Currency Management Strategy
Penalty Structure for Banks
(A) CPC / Feeding Branch / Standalone Branch
Sr. Description Penalty Per Instance in Rs. Penalty Per Unit in Rs.
1 Issuance of Unauthenticated and Unprocessed banknotes to public. 100,000/- N/A
2 CPC/Feeding branches/other branches do not have separate clean and secure vault space, with proper safe keeping arrangements. 20,000/- N/A
3 The vault does not have insurance cover in line with value of cash held. 10,000/- N/A
4 The entire CPC / Sorting area is not covered by high resolution CCTV cameras 20,000/- N/A
5 Recording of CCTV cameras is not available for 60 days N/A 10,000/- per day
6 Banknotes sorting and authentication machines are not processing / authenticating banknotes as per SBP standards as outlined in Finance Department circular No. 03/2015. N/A 5,000/- per machine
7 Police verification of all employees deployed at CPC/Feeding Branch is not available. 5,000/- 5,000/- per employee
8 Record of visitors is not maintained. 5,000/- N/A
9 No approval has been obtained from SBP Finance Department, where deviations to requisite capabilities in cash handling/packing machines. 20,000/- N/A
10 Suspected Counterfeit banknotes are not surrendered to SBPBSC within 48 hours of detection along with all particulars and record. 30,000/- N/A
11 Packets and bundles are not prepared/packed as per requisite specifications. 20,000/- 100/- per packet
12 cash offered in IEC or deposit with SBP BSC are not packed as per Packing Instructions 20,000/- 1000/- per bundle
13 Any other non-compliance and circumvention of instructions issued from time to time by SBP, relating to CPC / Feeding Branch / Standalone Branch. Min. 5,000 to Max. 100,000 depending upon the severity of instance

(B) ATM Feeding
Sr. Description Penalty Per Instance in Rs. Penalty Per Unit in Rs.
1 Machine authenticated and sorted cash is not being fed into ATMs. 100,000/- N/A
2 Presence of forged banknotes in ATM. N/A 100 times the value banknote found
2(a) ** Presence of counterfeit banknotes in the banks’ balances surrendered with SBP BSC: N/A 100 times the face value of the counterfeit banknotes
3 Bags/Cassettes are not prepared and sealed in high resolution, CCTV environment, as per requisite specifications. 20,000/- N/A
4 The records pertaining to bags/cassettes are not maintained including denomination, date and time of sorting, sealing, preparing/sealing personnel, transporting personnel, transporting vehicles and name of supervisor. 20,000/- N/A
5 Separate bags /Trays are not prepared for all attached ATMs. 10,000/- 5,000/- per ATM
6 Bags / Cassettes are remitted without receipt of written acknowledgement from feeding team/officials/armor guards/CITs. 10,000/- N/A
7 * CCTV and documentation record for 60 days is not available or CCTV record of all disputed cases is not available. 20,000/- N/A
8 Leftover cash taken from ATMs, if any, is not packed and sealed in CCTV environment and is not transported to CPC/Feeding Branch for processing. N/A 5,000/- per ATM
9 Any other non-compliance and circumvention of instructions issued from time to time by SBP, relating to ATM Feeding. Min. 5,000 to Max. 100,000 depending upon the severity of instance

(C) Arrangement with other Banks and IEC
Sr. Description Penalty Per Instance in Rs. Penalty Per Unit in Rs.
1 Claims/disputes for any balances pertaining to IEC are not settled within sixty (60) days 5,000/- 1,000/- per day
2 Any other non-compliance and circumvention of instructions issued from time to time by SBP, relating to Arrangement with other Banks or IEC. Min. 5,000 to Max. 100,000 depending upon the severity of instance

(D) Supplementary Instructions
Sr. Description Penalty Per Instance in Rs. Penalty Per Unit in Rs.
1 Bank does not maintain prescribed statement of daily closing cash balance. 5,000/- 500/- per day for which default continues.
2 Minimum One Day's fresh / re-issuable machine authenticated balances is not maintained in accordance with the average daily cash payment requirements. 10,000/- 1,000/- per day for which default continues.
3 Branch does not accept small denomination banknotes as well as cut / soiled / mutilated and defective. 10,000/- N/A
4 The soiled banknotes deposited by commercial banks found to contain more than 20% of re-issuable banknotes or vice versa. (Variance within 20% is tolerable) N/A Rs.500/- per bundle
5 Penalty scales pertaining to irregularities specifically for issuance of fresh cash over specific events (e.g. Eids, Christmas etc.)
a) A penalty will be imposed if fresh banknotes issued to a commercial bank for specific events are found in the informal market during mystery shopping. N/A 20,000/- per bundle found in market
10,000/- per 5 packets found in series
b) Zonal/feeding branches do not ensure replenishment of authorized branches, as per time, demand, supply and quota. 50,000/- N/A
c) Bank branches do not ensure issuance of fresh cash to general public over the counter or against requests received through SMS, as per quotas and stock available. 10,000/- N/A
6 Banks do not accept legal tender coins and do not provide banknotes-coins exchange facility to all the customers and general public. 2,000/- N/A
7 Any other non-compliance and circumvention of instructions issued from time to time by SBP. Min. 5,000 to Max. 100,000 depending upon the severity of instance

* Updated vide FD circular letter No. 04/2017 dated November 06, 2017

** Updated vide FD circular No. 01/2018 dated March 09, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

Queries related to Currency Management Strategy
Circular Subject Bank's Query SBP Response
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Categorization of Notes Point #1.1, FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 1003-2017: SBP advised banks to categorize cash into following four
a.
Fit for Re-issuance/Circulation

b.
Unfit/Soiled

c.
Machine Rejected

d.
Suspected Counterfeit



It is Banks understanding that the categorization provided via Master Circular 01 of 2004 (which is ReIssuable / Soiled / Defective / Unsorted) would be discontinued and merged with the above categories in the following manner
a.
Fit for Re-issuance / Circulation (Banks may further sub-categorize this category into ATM Fit, Counter Fit and Fresh Notes Categories)

b.
Unfit / Soiled

c.
Machine Rejected / Defective

d.
Suspected Counterfeit

 
 



The category of Machine Rejected banknotes, vide FD Circular No. 02/2017 dated March 10, 2017, also includes Clearly Payable Defective Banknotes. Therefore, The banks shall deposit the same to SBPBSC under Machine Rejected banknotes. Therefore, the clause 3(g) under “Deposit with SBPBSC” stands amended accordingly.
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Packing Machines In its earlier circular, SBP had not mentioned the packaging material specifications, as a result of which the banks purchased packet and bundle binding machines without taking this aspect into account. Since SBP has recently provided their packaging material specifications in many cases they do not match with the specs standards of the machines previously procured. Therefore, SBP should consider allowing packaging material specifications which equipment already procured are capable to deliver. The banks that have purchased/placed orders for purchase of packets and bundle binding machines before issuance of packing instructions they may use these machines for packet and bundle binding provided they meet other requirements like printing of requisite information on the packet/bundle bands. All such banks should contact this department on immediate priority to share the specifications etc of the machines so installed.
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Timelines SBP advised banks to implement preparation of banknotes bundles from July 03, 2017 for shrink wrapped with colored bundle cards on top and bottom according to the currency denominations. On the other hand, SBP has asked banks to wrap and put bundle cards in case of Interbank Exchange of Cash (IEC) from April 03, 2017.
Here SBP needs to clarify which one is the final implementation date? The banks understanding is that for enhanced bundling / packaging the implementation date will be July 03, 2017 and till then banks can follow the existing process of packaging and bundling.
Yes! The Shrink wrapping and bundle binding instructions are applicable from July 3. Till that time the banks may also use wide rubber bands (with minimum half inch width) to bind the bundles; the packets will have to have paper bands as specified in the strategy. These bundles will be accepted both by SBP BSC and NBP and may also be used for interbank exchange of cash. However, banks shall ensure that the banknotes (fit, unfit and reject) to be deposited with SBP BSC, NBP or for interbank exchange don’t contain any staples, pins, thin rubber bands, tapes etc (as stated in Section 1.1 of Packing Instructions) and that the packets are paper banded.
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Plastic Trays Transportation of machine sorted and shrink wrapped cash in plastic trays to SBP and other banks (interbank) will increase complication in logistics through CIT companies and will not mitigate any risks. Banks suggest that SBP should consider removing requirement of plastic trays. In order to revamp the banknotes supply chain and modernize the processing of banknotes; the use of plastic trays is pivotal for transportation and deposit with SBP BSC. The trays will be mandatory for deposit of cash with SBP BSC only and not for interbank exchange. The banks/CITs have been given ample time (about one year) to procure the trays.
However, banks are also encouraged to adopt plastic trays based packaging and transportation for interbank exchange and branch to branch cash transfers.
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Cash Handling Machines
Processing Model
Keeping in view the earlier SBP guidelines (FD Circular No. 03/2015, August 26, 2015), the banks already procured and provided shrink wrapping machines to their Cash Processing Centers (CPCs) and Cash Feeding Branches (CFBs) for only these locations to wrap and put bundle cards on sorted cash for Interbank Exchange Cash, but in the recent communication of SBP the banks have now been asked to wrap and place bundle cards on top and bottom in every exchange transaction as well. This requirement is not possible to comply with as this would require to arrange infrastructure similar to CPCs and CFBs setups at total branch network of all the banks across the country. The requirement of packing with bundle cards and shrink wrapping is mandatory after July 03, 2017 for deposit with SBPBSC, Interbank Exchange of Cash (IEC) or provision of cash to other banks under mutual agreements (clause B(i) of Circular No. 03/2015). The intra bank exchange of cash and movement of cash from CPCs/Cash Feeding branches to linked branches or cash processed within the branch as in case of branch based model doesn’t require shrink wrapping and bundle cards etc. The same has also been mentioned in the scope of the Packing Instructions.
FD circular No. 1/2014 dated September 9, 2014 Banknote Authentication Machines Sorting machines are not detecting ballpoint graffiti and stains on notes. The banks recommend that SBP should circulate unified sorting setting standards for each approved machine to avoid disputes in terms of refusal of accepting sorted cash delivery by SBP and other stakeholders (interbank). a. At present vendors are setting machines as per their own understandings resulting in variable sorting standards. They are unable to explain the exact percentages of settings to meet SBP parameters in MMs / length / width for tapped, tears, dog ears, stains, graffiti and levels for soiling. b. Till the unified sorting setting standards for each approved machine are available from SBP, it is recommended that the banks should not be penalized by SBP for cases where the banks are in compliance of using approved / certified sorting machines. SBP has already issued machine fitness sorting standards vide FD circular No. 1/2014 dated September 9, 2014. All the machines listed on SBP website conform to these standards. Banks are advised to approach their vendors for fine tuning and adaptation to minimize the variations. However, SBP is aware of minor variation in sorting/ output of different machines and variations within a pre-defined threshold/tolerance level shall not warrant penal action.
- Soiled Notes Disposal Banks are facing issues in timely disposal of soiled / dead cash at SBP BSC offices, which is putting huge constraints on the banks in terms of increasing their daily cash holdings and insurance costs. If effective and quick facilitation from SBP BSC offices is not ensured then the volume of soiled / machine rejected notes will increase significantly post policy implementation and the banks will be under immense pressure financially and functionally. To cater the influx of soiled banknotes, post implementation of CMS, a strategy is being devised for SBPBSC Offices to accept increased influx of soiled banknotes deposits. The purpose of the strategy would be to: i) provide an effective deposit mechanism for banks keeping in view our vaults and processing capacity; and ii) provide equal opportunity to all banks keeping in view the branch network, deposit base and average cash holding. As SBPBSC has larger processing capacity in Karachi, the banks are encouraged to collect the soiled balances from their branches in areas/cities/towns nearer to Karachi for deposit with SBPBSC Karachi. The overall Strategy will soon be communicated to banks enabling them to deposit the soiled notes to SBP BSC in an efficient and transparent manner.
- Penalty Imposition Under Phase 1 of Currency Management Strategy banks were required to arrange CPC/CFB at 30 big cities / districts. The SBP may firstly examine the CPC and branches in close vicinity and keep a margin of error as full functionality and operational effectiveness of CPCs are to be tested in days to come. Therefore, it is suggested that SBP may not take any penalization in case any shortcoming has been observed during its initial inspection and offer a reasonable time to the Bank to undertake required measures at any given CPC Banks have been given sufficient time to establish, test and operate CPCs/CFBs in line with requirements of SBP Currency Management Strategy (CMS). However, taking into account the commitment of banks towards implementation of CMS, SBP will consider such genuine instances practically. Nevertheless, banks with major deviations and gross non-compliance of SBP directives shall face stern penal actions.
FD circular No.01/2017 dated 20th March 2017 Interbank Exchange of Cash IEC arrangements of SBP BSC is an additional channel to surrender excess cash/procure cash through interbank transactions, however on need basis banks can execute interbank transactions on their own through RTGs as per existing practice and it will not require any reporting/approval from SBP BSC. Yes! The Bank’s understanding is correct. However, bank can only deposit its excess Fit/Re-issuable cash with SBPBSC which it has offered in IEC and couldn’t be absorbed.
- Interbank Exchange of Cash Banks shall only send email for IEC to SBP BSC, if excess cash is available to surrender or banks are in need of cash, IEC circular/instructions dose not requires daily NIL intimation email or daily cash positions of banknotes of all banks. Yes! We endorse bank’s understanding.
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Packing of IEC Balances For balances received through IEC, should the bank CPC have to re-sort and re-shrink wrapped these bundles and affix their own stamp and bundle cards on packets ????? Or there is no need to re-shrink wrapped the bundles as the shrink-wrapped fromremitting bank is sufficient to keep the same in receiving bank's Cash vault The banks may deposit the cash processed and packed by other bank(s) with SBP BSC or offer the same in IEC. The earlier requirement that the cash processed and packed by the depositing bank can only be deposited with SBP BSC or offered for exchange in IEC shall stand withdrawn. However, in case of any discrepancy, the bank which has processed and packed the cash shall be responsible.
- Penlaty For balances received in IEC if the SBP team visits the CPC and finds any discrepancy in the balances, then in such case which bank will bear the penalty? The banks may deposit the cash processed and packed by other bank(s) with SBP BSC or offer the same in IEC. The earlier requirement that the cash processed and packed by the depositing bank can only be deposited with SBP BSC or offered for exchange in IEC shall stand withdrawn. However, in case of any discrepancy, the bank which has processed and packed the cash shall be responsible.
- Preservation Period In reference to SBP F.D Circular 03/2015 of Currency management strategy Section B-iii-C  SBP has instructed to monitor all CPC activities through high definition CCTV with preserving of 90 days recording for investigation of any dispute if arises. In this regards HBL have already established the necessary CCTV infrastructure at all 1st Phase CPCs to comply the CMS requirement.
Hence the confusion is that do we need the CTV recording at branches/ATMs for 90 days or 60 days?
With regards to our last meeting held on August 4th    and SBP F.D circular 03/2017 , SBP instructed all banks to have a tracking mechanism in place for end-to-end process of sealing/unsealing of CIT bags/Trays & replenishment of ATMs which should be carried under CCTV controlled environment. Since no specification of CCTV cameras and recording retention  period specified for branches and ATM vestibules, therefore will it be the same, as applicable for CPCs or the bank would need to comply item 1.12 of Section B of BC & CPD circular No 1 of 2016 which instructs banks to retain CCTV footage for 2 months for tracking of customer’s complain?
The preservation period of video recording has been standardized to 60 days for CPCs, Cash Feeding/Standalone Branches, and onsite & offsite ATMs. However, in case of any dispute, the recording shall be preserved till the dispute is finally settled
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Cash Trays This refers to SBP FD Circular No. 02/2017 dated March 10, 2017 regarding Bank Note Packing instructions, wherein at page no. 8 point 2. Transport Mechanism for Banknote Bundles, all banks are advised to phase out the existing practice of depositing bank notes in canvas/jute bags with cash trays. you will be pleased to know that The Bank Of Khyber is in process of implementing the cash trays mechanism to fully comply the regulator instructions before dead line of April 02, 2017. Our strategy towards trays mechanism includes the construction of a separate vault room in CPC ,where sorted cash shall be placed in trays to be surrendered to SBP BSC Office. This vault room shall be in addition to existing vault room which will be used exclusively  to place only Cash trays having sorted cash in compliance of SBP CMS whereas existing vault room shall be used to place loose cash in safe as per existing practice. In this regard you kind guidance is solicited to guide us regarding construction of exclusive vault room to place only cash trays in CPC , so that SBP regulation may not be violated in any way. With reference to the query, it is stated that the bank may use a separate vault to place cash trays as per its own requirements provided it complies SBP’s instructions regarding cleanliness and proper safe keeping arrangement as well as the required insurance cover as advised vide SBP circular No.03/2015 dated August 26, 2015.
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Cash Trays This refers to SBP FD Circular No. 02/2017 dated March 10, 2017 regarding Bank Note Packing instructions, wherein at page no. 8 point 2. Transport Mechanism for Banknote Bundles, all banks are advised to phase out the existing practice of depositing bank notes in canvas/jute bags with Cash Trays.
In this regard, further clarification is solicited as per following:
1. SBP mentioned regarding use of trays for depositing bank Notes in SBP BSC Office, as per our understanding Trays shall be used only for the TRANSIT as Cash will be moved from BOK CPC to SBP BSC office in BOK trays, whereas SBP BSC office on receipt of Bank cash at counter shall further return the BOK trays and retain the cash in its own trays and place the same in SBP BSC vault.
2. Furthermore, Sometime due to heavy volume of cash being deposited to SBP BSC office, SBP deposit our cash under Bonded facility. In such case, SBP retain our cash in its vaults for number of days and call the bank on its turn to process the bonded cash. In such case, Please guide whether our cash trays shall be withheld till such time or our trays will be returned on receipt of bonded cash.
With reference to appended query, it is stated that as per existing instructions, the trays shall be returned to the respective bank in both cases.
•FD Circular No. 03/2015, dated August 26,2015
•FD Circular Letter No. 04/2017, dated November 6, 2017
Pocketless Dress We like to draw your attention towards issue being faced by our Incharge CPC’s , as SBP has made pocket less dress mandatory for note sorting staff as well as for supervisors of the CPC’s, but it is came into noticed that Incharge CPC visit SBP most often and also much engaged in HO meetings on different matters, where observance of pocket less dress for Incharge CPC is difficult.
So, in this regard it is requested that, SBP may exempt the Incharge CPC’s from above instructions, enabling the Incharge to attend SBP and HO meetings without any hindrance.
The requirement of Special Uniforms/Pocket-less Dress is mandatory for note sorting staff as well as their supervisors at Cash Processing Centers. Therefore, your request for exemption cannot be acceded.
- Claim Notes What will be the procedure to report “CLAIM NOTE “ to SBP and what will be the time period in which the reporting bank shall receive the credit against it?
There is a scenario, as if customer approach the branch counter for claim note exchange, what will be teller do??
Scenario: A
The teller shall immediately exchange the note and facilitate the customer from counter cash and then report the claim note to SBP, but in this scenario how the branch shall balance its counter as” CLAIM NOTE “ will be deposited in SBP?
Scenario : B
The Teller will tell the customer that, presented note is “CLAIM NOTE “ and cannot be exchanged at branch counter immediately , as it shall take some time to report the note to SBP and receive the credit against it, once we get the credit from the SBP the same shall be intimated to customer , so that customer can get the exchanged note against “ CLAIM NOTE”
With reference to your query it is stated that recovery of value of claim notes is subject to passing by the prescribed authorities at SBP BSC offices as per prescribed procedure under Note Refund Regulations, 1963. Therefore, the bank shall follow the existing practice and intimate the customer accordingly.
It may be mentioned that as per internal SOPs, the respective SBPBSC office promptly processes the refund requests/cases presented by banks and inform the bank/branches accordingly.
FD Circular No. 03/2015, dated August 26,2015 Cash Processing Machines With reference to the Cash Authentication Machines list on SBP website that are segregated for CPC and branch level operations
We would like to inform you that we were one of the first banks that had acquired the four units of G&D C4 8+1 stacker Cash Authentication Machines and deployed them at our high turnover centres. Our experience using this product has been very satisfactory with reference to the output and the after sales service provided by the vendor. Further for 1st Phase 33 CPCs we procured 52 units of Magner 350 – 3+1 stackers machine.
Currently, we are in the process of procuring additional Cash Authentication Machines for our 1st phase CPCs and capacity building for 2nd phase CPCs . Considering the average daily processing volume and contingent plan for each CPC we have developed strategy to procure a mix of 3+1 stacker & 1+1 stacker machines .
To enhance the processing capacity of 1st phase CPCs for handling the forthcoming Rs 100 denomination and 2nd Phase CPCs where daily processing volume is less than 50 bundle per day we are considering a minimum of 2 units of 1+1 stacker machine for each location, whereas for CPCs having daily processing volume of above 50 bundles per day we are considering 3 +1 stacker machine.
With reference to your appended email, it is advised that small size machines with single pocket and a single set of banknotes would require multiples iterations (sorting & authentication) to achieve the final output; resulting in inefficiency and time delays. Moreover, these machines are more suited for teller/front desk operations and are not meant for handling huge quantum of notes i.e. sorting and authentication performed by CPCs.
Accordingly, your request for use of 1+1 machine at CPC cannot be acceded.
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Counterfeit Notes As per our discussion with regards to the counterfeit notes. The SBP CMS guidelines does define the method of surrendering the counterfeit notes via the temper proof bags. This treatment of surrendering is explained for notes that get identified in CPCs via the currency authentication machines.
There is no specific SBP circular that defines the surrendering process of notes to SBP that get identified by branch tellers. Although, BPRD circular # 8 dated July 12, 2007, does mention the banks role on educating the customers and for the banks to liaise closely with law enforcement agencies and apprehend distributors of fake currency.
Therefore, in the interim the branches have the option to route their identified fake notes to their respective CPCs and the CPCs can surrender the same to SBP as per the process mentioned in the SBP CMS guideline.

Branch can surrender the counterfeit note to the CPC/main branch who can deposit the same with the SBP BSC office.
FD Circular No. 02/2017, March 10,2017 Banknote Packinng Instructions With reference to banknotes packing instructions issued by SBP vide FD Circular No. 02/2017 dated March 10, 2017 and subsequent clarifications received vide FD Circular No. 03/2017 dated August 31, 2017, it is our understanding that these banknote packing instructions will only apply to cash being deposited in SBP (BSC) regional offices or traded in Interbank Exchange of Cash as per the process defined by SBP.

Additionally, these instructions will not be applicable on cash being deposited in National Bank of Pakistan in the cities where SBP (BSC) offices are not present.
With reference to your query, it is clarified that the Packing Instructions will also be applicable on cash deposited with NBP Chests/Sub Chests.
However, the requirement for deposits in cash trays (as prescribed in Section 2 of Banknote Packing Instructions) shall only be applicable for deposits with SBP BSC Offices.
FD Circular Letter No. 04/2017
November 6, 2017
CCTV This refers to subject, for example , There is a branch that fall under the jurisdiction of CPC and does not have Desktop Note Sorting machine of its own as all its cash authentication and sorting needs are fulfilled through CPC, whether this branch should also require to have recording for three months ? or only machine equipped branches required to have three months recording? Linked branches are required to open the balances received from CPCs/CFBs in CCTV controlled environment, including balances for branch’s own consumption as well as for ATM Feeding; so as to ensure end to end trail of processed cash. Therefore, linked branches will also be required to preserve CCTV recording for prescribed period.
FD Circular No. 03/2015, dated August 26,2015 Police Verification Apropos to FD Circular # 03/2015, dated August 26, 2015 therewith Banks were advised to conduct necessary screening/police verification of staff deployed at CPCs with periodical(annual or so) from relevant law enforcement agencies. Considering this we engaged services from a reputable firm, who provides us the below findings of each and every staff stationed at CPCs. We seek your consent that the screening from below agencies we are getting is precisely serving the purpose or else we need to get investigations from any other agency as well. Reference your below email, it is clarified that Police verification is required in terms of FD Circular No.3/2015 dated August 26, 2015.
However, as per banks’ own SOPs/internal control mechanism verification through/from any other organization can be conducted.
FD Circular No. 03/2015, dated August 26,2015
•FD Circular Letter No. 04/2017, dated November 6, 2017
Pocketless Dress With reference to point (f) iii of Para B Automated Cash Processing Centers (CPCs) of FD Circular No.03/2015 dated August 26, 2015 on Currency Management Strategy :
Quote
Special uniform/pocket less dress shall be made mandatory for the note sorting staff and their supervisors at the cash processing places
Unquote
We week your clarification on following query:
“ is this uniform must be of one piece ( coverup ) or the concerned staff can also wear two piece uniform but without pockets ?”

Reference your appended email, it is informed that the SBP’s instructions regarding special uniform/pocket-less dress do no specify any number of pieces for the uniform. It is, bank’s own operational decision to use pocket-less dress with one or multiple pieces, in order to ensure compliance of SBP directives.
•FD Circular No. 03/2015, dated August 26,2015
•FD Circular Letter No. 04/2017, dated November 6, 2017
IEC This is with reference to SBP Currency Management- Banknote Packing instructions shared vide FD Circular No. 02/2017 dated March 10th , 2017 where in respect of ITC (Interbank Trading of cash) we have a query as following;
“ For example, Bank of Khyber receives 50M cash from Meezan Bank Ltd in compliance of SBP packaging instructions having shrink wrapped and bundle cards intact from Meezan bank , where further 20M is paid off from BOK counter while remaining 30M cash kept in BOK cash vault having all the packing requirements intact as received from Meezan bank, what will be the implications in below mentioned two scenarios;
Scenario - 1: Does The BOK CPC have to re-sort and re-shrink wrapped these bundles and affix BOK stamp and bundle cards on packets ????? Or there is no need to re-shrink wrapped the bundles in BOK as the shrink-wrapped from Meezan bank is sufficient to keep the same in BOK Cash vault ?
Scenario - 2; if Next day, SBP team visits the CPC and found any discrepancy in Meezan bank bundle than in such case which bank will bear the penalty? “



The banks may deposit the cash processed and packed by other bank(s) with SBP BSC or offer the same in IEC. The earlier requirement that the cash processed and packed by the depositing bank can only be deposited with SBP BSC or offered for exchange in IEC shall stand withdrawn. However, in case of any discrepancy, the bank which has processed and packed the cash shall be responsible.
FD Circular No. 03/2015, dated August 26,2015

FD Circular No. 03/2017, August 31,2017
ATM feeding What is the treatment of the left over cash taken out from the ATM cassettes at the time of replenishment of ATM The treatment of leftover cash is clarified as under:
1. Branch based model (ATM is fed by branch)
Under this model leftover cash of ATM shall be processed at branch and subsequently it can be used at cash counters.
2. CPC/CFB model (ATM fed by CPC/CFB)
Under this model packed and sealed leftover cash of ATM shall be transported to CPC/CFB for processing.

Pakistani Coins

Pakistani Coins

Pakistani Coins

The Government of Pakistan issued its first coins in 1948, based on the traditional rupees, annas and pice of the sub-continent, depicting a crescent and star. In line with global decimal systems, Pakistan introduced decimal coinage on January 01, 1961. This decimal coinage was based on the rupee with division into paisas. Coins of 1, 5 and 10 paisa were issued in 1961, followed by 25 and 50 paisa coins in 1963. However, decimal coins were demonetized from 1st October 2014.

The one-rupee coin was issued in 1977 on Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s 100th birth anniversary. Rs. 2, Rs. 5 and Rs. 10 coins were issued in 1998, 2002 and 2016 respectively. SBP has also issued commemorative coins on occasions such as the birth anniversay of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Islamic Summit, Wildlife Conservation Day, the birth anniversary of Allama Iqbal and the advent, of the 15th century Hijra etc.

Recently, commemorative coins have been issued on 110th birth anniversary of Mohterma Fatima Jinnah, the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and laudatory coins paying tribute to the humanitarian services rendered by the late Mr. Abdus Sattar Edhi and the late Dr. Ruth Pfau. In the past, gold coins were also issued occasionally, such as the Rs. 500 coin issued on the 100th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam in 1976, a Rs. 500 commemorative coin issued on the 100th birth anniversary of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal in 1977 and the highest denomination coin i.e. Rs. 3000 coin issued for the conservation of “the Astor Markhor” in 1976.

Currently, regular coins of Rs 10, Rs 5, Rs 2 and Re 1 are issued.

Rs. 10 Coin

Issue date: 24th October 2016

The coin is yellow in colour and round with serrations on the edge and a diameter of 25.5 mm. It weighs 5.50 grams. Other features of the coin are:

OBVERSE: The waxing crescent moon and a five pointed star facing North-West in rising position is inthe center on the obverse side of the coin. Along with periphery on the top of the crescent star is inscribed islami in Urdu script. Below the crescent and at the top of two springs of wheat with arms curved upward, there is the year of issuance. A Circle of small beads is all along the edge of the coin.

REVERSE: The reverse side of the coin is decorated with the front side picture of Faisal Mosque with Doves flying over it. The face value of the coin in numeral wording "10" in bold letters and Rupee rupiya in Urdu script is inscribed at lowerside of the coin. A Circle of small beads is all along the edge of the coin.

Rs. 5 Coin

Issue date: 15th October 2015

The coin weighs 3 grams with 79% copper, 20% zinc and 1% nickel. Its dimension is 18.5 mm. Other features of the coin are:

OBVERSE: The obverse side of the coin is depicted with the waxing crescent moon and a five pointed star facing north-west in rising position is in the center on the obverse face of the coin. Alongwith periphery on the top of the crescent star is inscribed in wording “ISLAMI JAMHORIA PAKISTAN” islami in Urdu script and below the crescent and at the top of two springs of wheat with arms curved upward, there is the year of issuance. A circle of small beads is all along the edge of coin

REVERSE: The reverse side of the coin is depicted with a floral wreath all along within the periphery of the coin splitted with the cones of five pointed star in the center. The face value of the coin in numeral wording (5) is in bold letter and Rupee روپیہ in urdu script in the center of the star. The coin bears its beads along the periphery.

Rs. 2 Coin (Aluminum Coin)

Issue date: 20th November 2008

The Rs 2 Aluminum coin is in white colour with a diameter of 22.5 mm and net weight of 2.6 grams. Other features of the coin are:

OBVERSE: The waxing crescent moon and a five pointed star facing North-West in rising position is in the center on the obverse side of the coin. Along with periphery on the top of the crescent star is inscribed islamiin Urdu script. Below the crescent and at the top of two springs of wheat with arms curved upward, there is the year of issuance. A Circle of small beads is all along the edge of the coin.

REVERSE: The reverse side of the coin is decorated with the front posed picture of the Badshahi Mosque Lahore. The face value of the coin in numeral wording "2" in bold letters and Rupee rupiyain Urdu script is inscribed at lowerside of the coin
These coins have different metal composition, colour and weight. However, their design and diameter are the same as those of the existing coins which were introduced from September 08, 1998.

Re. 1 Coin (Aluminum Coin)

Issue date: 20th November 2008

The Re 1 Aluminum coin is in white colour with a diameter of 20 mm and net weight of 1.75 grams. Other features of the coin are:

OBVERSE: The obverse side of the coin bear the side pose portrait of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Founder of Pakistan. The wording in Urdu Script “قائدِ اعظم محمد علی جناح ” is written on the left hand side and islami on the right hand side of the portrait in circular form alongwith the dotten line of the circumference of the coin. The year of issuance is written at the bottom of picture.

REVERSE: The reverse side of the coin bears the architectural view of the new design of ‘Dargah Sehwan Sharif’ Sindh. The face value of the coin in numeral wording "1" in bold letters and Rupeerupiyain Urdu script is inscribed at the bottom of the shrine.
These coins have different metal composition, colour and weight. However, their design and diameter are the same as those of the existing coins which were introduced from September 08, 1998.

LIST OF COMMEMORATIVE COINS ISSUED BY SBP

Denomination Issue Date Description
50 12/22/1976 Birth Anniversary of Quaid-E-Azam
100 02/22/1977 Birth Anniversary of Quaid-E-Azam
500 02/22/1977 Birth Anniversary of Quaid-E-Azam
100 05/09/1977 Wild Life Conservation Day
150 05/09/1977 Wild Life Conservation Day
3000 05/09/1977 Wild Life Conservation Day
500 12/08/1977 Birth Anniversary of Allama Iqbal
100 12/08/1977 Birth Anniversary of Allama Iqbal
1 10/16/1982 FAO World Food Day
5 01/29/1996 50th Anniversary of the United Nations
10 08/13/1998 Silver Jubilee of Senate
10 07/31/2003 Madre-E-Millat Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah
10 12/26/2008 First Death Anniversary of Banazir Bhutto
10 10/01/2009 60th Anniversary of China
20 05/21/2011 60th Anniversary of Pak-China Friendship
20 05/28/2011 150 year celebrations of Lawrence College
25 06/02/2014 Golden Jubilee of Pakistan Navy Submarine Force
20 01/31/2015 Pak China Year of Friendly Exchange 2015
20 03/16/2015 100 years of Glory of Islamia College Peshawar
50 03/31/2017 Abdul Sattar Edhi
50 05/08/2018 Dr. Ruth Pfau
50 10/17/2018 200th Birth Anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
50 12/10/2018 International Anti-Corruption Day
550 11/12/2019 550th Birth Anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak
40 02/17/2020 40 years of Presence of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan
70 06/10/2021 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between China and Pakistan
70 10/15/2021 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Pakistan and Germany
100 08/29/2021 100th Anniversary of NED University of Engineering & Technology, Karachi
100 01/12/2022 100th Anniversary of University of Engineering & Technology, Lahore
50 01/25/2022 Golden Jubilee of PNS Submarine Hangor Day
50 03/17/2023 Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Senate of Pakistan
50 04/13/2023 Golden Jubilee of the 1973 Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
100 08/11/2023 Decade of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
75 08/25/2023 75th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Pakistan and USA
55 11/22/2024 555th Birthday Anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak
50 12/05/2024 50th anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of SOS Children’s Villages Pakistan
25 02/12/2025 25th years services of NADRA
100 07/11/2025 Completion of 100 Years (Centenary) of Military College Jhelum
75 08/15/2025 Marka-e-Haq

Smartphone Application

Smartphone Application about Security Features of Pakistani Banknotes

The official Smartphone application “Pakistani Banknotes” is available on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The App contains information about security features of Pakistani Banknotes in English as well as in Urdu language.

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