Rules for the use of Norwegian banknote and coin designs
The design on Norwegian coins and banknotes is subject to copyright protection pursuant to Act No. 2 of 12 May 1961 relating to Copyright in Literary, Scientific and Artistic Works, etc. (Copyright Act). Under the provisions of the Act, Norges Bank administers the rights of the originator. The use of illustrations of Norwegian coin and banknote designs shall not infringe upon the rights of the originator. This means, for example, that the original coin and note designs shall not be manipulated.
When coin and banknote designs are reproduced, it should not be possible to confuse the reproductions with legal tender.
When banknote designs are reproduced in printed media, the following rules apply:
- Banknote designs must not be reproduced as a "banknote" with an obverse and a reverse. If the banknote design is reproduced on one side, the other side must not in any way resemble a banknote design.
- Reproductions of banknotes must not be the same size as actual notes. If a reproduction is smaller, it shall at most be 50% as long and 50% as wide as the original. If a reproduction is larger, it shall at least be 150% as long and 150% as wide as the original. These rules also apply to the reproduction of parts of the note design.
- Producing data files with the intention of reproducing a banknote design with a resolution higher than 72 dpi is not permitted.
When banknote designs are reproduced in electronic media, the following rules apply:
- Producing or transferring data files with the intention of reproducing a banknote with a resolution higher than 72 dpi is not permitted.
- The banknote must have the word "SPECIMEN" printed diagonally across the reproduction so that the text covers at least 75% of the length and width of the note.
When coin designs are reproduced, it must be easy to differentiate the reproductions from coins that are legal tender. They must not be made of metal or other material that can be confused with metal.
These rules apply to all reproductions, regardless of method, of the entire or parts of the banknote and coin designs. Provided these rules are followed, Norwegian banknote and coin designs may be used for illustrations and in advertising.
Exemption from the rules may, on application, be granted by Norges Bank in special cases.
For more information, contact Norges Bank, tel. +47 22 31 60 00.