Guatemala's Q100 banknote wins international award for design and security

Guatemala's Q100 commemorative banknote has earned international acclaim, securing the "Best New Commemorative Banknote 2026" award at the High Security Printing Latin America event. This prestigious recognition celebrates the banknote's cutting-edge design and sophisticated security elements.

The award ceremony took place on June 2 in Guatemala City, the host of this year's High Security Printing Latin America conference. The event, held from June 1 to 3, brought together global experts, central banks, and specialized companies in the production of high-security currency and official documents.

This accolade arrives shortly after the new Q100 banknote entered circulation on May 25, 2026. Its issuance marked significant milestones: the 100th anniversary of Central Banking in Guatemala and the 80th anniversary of the Bank of Guatemala's establishment. This marks Guatemala's second consecutive year of recognition at this competition, highlighting its consistent innovation in banknote design and security.

The Q100 note boasts several distinguishing security features. A security thread with microtext displays the number "100" in both Arabic and Mayan numerals, exhibiting a motion effect when tilted. The banknote also incorporates a watermark of the "Indio de Nahualá" artwork. Additionally, tactile relief lines are printed on the upper section, aiding denomination identification for visually impaired individuals.