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Face sides of the 2011 Frontier series depicting Wilfrid Laurier ($5), John A. Macdonald ($10), Elizabeth II ($20), William Lyon Mackenzie King ($50), and Robert Borden ($100)

The Frontier (French: Frontières) series is the seventh series of banknotes of the Canadian dollar released by the Bank of Canada, first circulated in 2011. The polymer banknotes were designed for increased durability and to incorporate more security features over the preceding 2001 Canadian Journey series. The notes feature images that focus on historic Canadian achievements and innovation. Printed on polymer, the 2011 Frontier series was the first series issued by the Bank of Canada printed on a material other than paper. The 2011 Frontier series is being followed by the Vertical series.

The banknotes were designed by the Canadian Bank Note Company, which also prints the banknotes. They were revealed in June 2011. To familiarize Canadians with the new banknotes, each banknote was introduced through national and regional unveiling events and advertising campaigns before being put into circulation. The $100 banknote was released into circulation on 14 November 2011, the $50 banknote on 26 March 2012, and the $20 banknote on 7 November 2012. The $5 banknote was unveiled by Chris Hadfield from the International Space Station during Expedition 35 and first circulated on 7 November 2013. The $10 banknote was first circulated the same day after a ceremony at Pacific Central Station in Vancouver.

At the time of its adoption of the technology, Canada was the largest of over 30 nations, and the first G8 country, to use polymer thin films for printing currency.[1]

Background

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The primary impetus for the new banknotes was "the need to stay ahead of counterfeiters".[2][3] By 2002, 10% of retailers in some parts of Canada refused to accept the $100 banknotes of the 1986 Birds of Canada series in financial transactions,[4] and by 2004, the counterfeit ratio for Canadian currency had risen to 470 parts per million (ppm).[5] As of 2011, over half of all retail transactions in Canada were made using cash.[6]

Between 1995 and 1998, the Bank of Canada tested a substrate trademarked as "Luminus" consisting of a polymer core sheet layered between two paper sheets for use in printing banknotes.[7] It printed 100,000 experimental $5 Birds of Canada banknotes.[8] In June 1998, the Bank of Canada prepared to use Luminus as the substrate for the 2001 Canadian Journey series, but in December 1999, the manufacturer withdrew its supply bid because it could not produce the substrate at the scale required by the Bank of Canada for printing banknotes.[8][7] The bank printed the 2001 Canadian Journey series on a cotton fibre substrate with similar surface characteristics to Luminus so that it could transition production to using the polymer substrate when scale production issues were resolved.[7] The Bank of Canada also secured Canadian rights for Luminus and continued to develop the substrate for future use.[7]

The use of polymer as a substrate was considered in part because access to the polymer substrate could be controlled, and replicating the chemical and physical recipe would be difficult.[6][9] The practice of restricting access to the substrate used for manufacturing money existed as early as the 13th century, during which Chinese rulers stationed guards at mulberry forests, as mulberry bark was used to produce paper money.[6]

Use of a polymer substrate in the upcoming banknotes was announced by Jim Flaherty in the 2010 Canadian federal budget speech on 4 March 2010, at which time he also announced that in the future the loonie ($1 coin) and toonie ($2 coin) would be made of steel instead of nickel to reduce manufacturing costs.[9] Canada became the ninth country to print all its banknotes using a polymer substrate, following Australia, Bermuda, Brunei, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Romania, and Vietnam.[10]

Development

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The Bank of Canada began planning for the Frontier series in 2005.[11][12] It used a team of chemists, physicists, and engineers it had assembled for the development of the 2001 Canadian Journey series to determine potential counterfeiting threats and assess substrate materials and potential security features for use in banknote designs.[13] Once the technical evaluation of materials and security features was complete, the Bank of Canada created a formal set of guidelines specifying "the combination of security features and substrate"[14] that it issued to bank note manufacturing and design companies.[3] The resultant bid designs were evaluated for technical, security, and financial merit.[3]

Once the design and substrate were chosen, the Bank of Canada negotiated a contract with Note Printing Australia (NPA) for the supply of the substrate polymer and the security features implemented in the design.[3] The substrate is supplied to NPA by Securency International (now known as Innovia Films Ltd).[3] The Bank also negotiated for the rights to the use of intellectual property associated with the material and security features owned by the Reserve Bank of Australia.[3] The Bank of Canada issued a press release stating its intention to issue new banknotes in 2011.[15]

A study commissioned by the Bank of Canada was conducted by the University of Waterloo, which collaborated with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, to assess the accessibility features of the Canadian Journey banknotes.[4] The results led to the implementation of two improvements to the design—increased durability of the raised dots used for identification and placing identification patterns for electronic banknote scanners at both ends of the banknotes.[4]

The Bank of Canada tested the prototype banknotes by exposing them to temperatures in the range −75 to 140 °C (−103 to 284 °F).[16] The durability test involved boiling, freezing, and running the banknotes in a washing machine.[17]

By the end of the development cycle, nearly 15 million test banknotes of various designs, implementing different security features, and using various substrates and techniques, had been printed.[14] Research and testing for printing currency on the polymer substrate cost about CA$20 million, and overall development of the polymer banknotes cost about $300 million.[18][6]

Design

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In 2008, the Bank of Canada hired the Strategic Counsel, a market research firm, for $476,000 to create an image catalogue from which banknote images would be drawn.[19] The firm polled focus groups in six cities, finding that themes related to diversity and multiculturalism had strong support. This resulted in 41 images reflecting eight themes being presented to the Bank of Canada.[19][20]

The designs for the banknotes were created by the Canadian Bank Note Company.[21][22][23] The Bank of Canada consulted various organizations for the design and depiction of elements appearing on the banknotes, including: the Canadian Space Agency for the $5 banknote;[24] Via Rail and the Railway Association of Canada for the $10 banknote;[25] Veterans Affairs Canada and the Vimy Foundation for the $20 banknote;[26] ArcticNet, the Canadian Coast Guard, and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami for the $50 banknote;[27] and the Banting and Best Diabetes Centre, Canada Foundation for Innovation, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Sanofi Pasteur Canada, University of Ottawa, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, University of Toronto, and University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine for the $100 banknote.[28]

From late 2009 to early 2012, the prototype designs were shown to 30 focus groups in Calgary, Fredericton, Montreal, and Toronto on a $53,000 contract by the Strategic Counsel to discover "potential controversies".[21][29][20] Feedback from the focus groups led to some changes to the design,[21] and results of the study were released to the public in 2012.[30] The report stated that themes of diversity, inclusiveness, acceptance of others, and multiculturalism had strong support in the focus groups.[19] The highest-rated images included two of children of different ethnic backgrounds building a snowman and playing hockey, and of faces of individuals from different cultures celebrating Canada Day.[19] The focus groups rejected images such as aboriginal art, ice wine, and portraits of Terry Fox, Tommy Douglas, and Lester B. Pearson.[19] All focus groups thought the large window resembled a woman's body.[29]

A set of 41 images in several themes was presented to the Department of Finance, which selected the final designs.[19] Rejected images included illustrations of a gay marriage and a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer wearing a turban.[19] The images and themes that were chosen were meant to represent Canadian accomplishments in science, technology, and exploration.[24] The themes for the final designs were announced to the public at a media event on 20 June 2011 by Mark Carney, the Governor of the Bank of Canada, Jim Flaherty, the Minister of Finance, and William J. S. Elliott, commissioner of the RCMP.[31]

Accessibility

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Arrangement of raised dots for each denomination of the series
Main article: Canadian currency tactile feature

Each banknote has a raised dot identification pattern, which is not braille, on the top left corner of the obverse usable for identification by individuals with visual impairments.[32][33] The raised dots were expected to have greater endurance than those of previous series because of the greater durability of the polypropylene substrate.[3] At each end of the banknotes, a symmetrical arc contains codes that enable identification using a specialized portable electronic banknote scanner.[citation needed] Other accessibility features include a distinct and dominant colour scheme for each denomination and large numerals displayed against a contrasting background[4]

Production

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The banknotes are manufactured by Ottawa-based company Canadian Bank Note Company and by the former BA International.[3] They are made from a single sheet of polymer substrate branded as "Guardian" manufactured by Innovia Films,[32] which is the only supplier of the substrate for the Frontier series,[9] based on a polymer developed in Australia and used by Note Printing Australia to print the banknotes of the Australian dollar since 1988.[4] The material is less likely to tear than cotton-based paper and is more crumple resistant and water resistant.[32] The polymer notes are made of recyclable biaxially-oriented polypropylene (BOPP).[35][36]

Each polymer banknote cost 19 cents to print, more than the paper-based banknotes of previous series, but were expected to last 21⁄2 times longer, about 71⁄2 years, reducing overall costs for banknote production.[32][22] The Bank of Canada expected to save about 25% on production costs (about $200  million) compared to printing paper money with similar counterfeiting resistance.[37]

Substrate

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Main article: Guardian (polymer)

Polypropylene and other polyolefin pellets are extruded and combined to create a molten polymer,[38][39][40] which consists of a 37.5μm thick polypropylene sheet sandwiched between two 0.1μm polyolefin sheets,[40][39] creating a thin film 37.7 μm thick. This is gravity-fed through a snap-cooling brass mandrel, reheater, blown into a large bubble using air pressure and temperature, and collapsed at the base of the four-storey chamber into a flat sheet by convergence rollers; the sheet is then slit.[38][40] This creates the base biaxially-oriented polypropylene substrate of 75.4 μm thickness, called ClarityC by Innovia Films.[39][35]

Two 3 μm thick layers of white opacifier are applied to the upper and lower surface of the substrate, except for masked areas that are intended to remain transparent.[39][41][40] These overcoat layers protect the substrate from soiling and impart on it its characteristic texture[42] and increase the overall thickness to 87.5 μm. The resulting product is the Guardian substrate.[40]

The holographic security foil is then incorporated into the base substrate.[35] This is then cut, and the sheets are spooled onto a roll that is transported to the banknote printing companies in wooden boxes as a secure shipment.[35][6][43]

Printing

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Printing banknotes involves several ordered stages.[44] These include acquisition and preparation of necessary materials, prepress activities, printing, and post-printing operations.[44] Some of the operations are "unique to the security printing industry".[44]

Prepress activities include creation of the wet and dry plates for lithographic printing, the image and ink transfer plates, and establishing the electroforming and electroplating process for intaglio.[44] The cylinder and roller plates are coated or etched with the unique designs for the banknotes.[44] Inks are prepared using a "mixture of varnishes, pigments and additives".[44]

The printing process involves the substrate passing through presses for lithographic printing, intaglio printing, numbering printing, and varnish printing.[45] The inks are transferred using the prepared plates, which are replaced when worn.[44] The opacifier layers enable the inks of the offset and intaglio printing to adhere to the substrate.[40] The varnish printing stage applies a required protective varnish to the polymer substrate.[44] Offset printing deposits a 1.5 μm layer, intaglio about 24 μm, and the protective varnish is about 2 μm thick.[39]

Once printing is complete, the banknotes undergo a finishing stage in which they are cut and are then packaged.[44] The packages are stacked on a pallet that is then bound in plastic wrap and strapped.[44]

Banknotes

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Security

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The banknotes feature a large clear window through which passes a stripe of holographic metallic foil that changes colour based on angle.[72][73] The holographic foil contains an image of one of the Parliament buildings at its base and a coloured duplicate of the portrait appearing on the banknote at the top.[32][74] Both portions of the metallic foil contain the words "BANK OF CANADA", "BANQUE DU CANADA", and several repetitions of the value of the denomination appearing in different colours depending on the viewing angle.[75] The metallic foil portrait is the same as the larger portrait on the banknote, but shifts colour when the banknote is tilted.[34][74] The holographic foil is manufactured using a mix of aluminum, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and adhesives.[35]

A frosted window in the shape of a maple leaf is included at the other end of the note.[75][32] Within the maple leaf is a ring of numbers matching the denomination of the banknote that become visible when the obverse is observed with a backlight.[72][5][76] Hidden numbers also appear in the large window and holographic foil, some in reverse.[32][76] The translucent maple leaf has a thin, transparent outline through which is visible the pattern of the reverse.[34]

Other security features include a border consisting of maple leaves around and intruding into parts of the large window, and transparent text printed in raised ink in the window.[75][34][77][76] The raised ink is printed using intaglio[4] and is also used for the large numerals to the left of the portrait, the shoulders of the portrait, and the words "BANK OF CANADA" and "BANQUE DU CANADA" printed near the maple leaf border.[5][77] The transparent word "Canada" in the large window is also raised.[76]

Each denomination contains the EURion constellation on both the obverse and reverse to deter counterfeiting by reproduction using imaging software and photocopiers.[78] The 2011 Frontier series is the second Canadian banknote series to include it after the 2001 Canadian Journey series. On the obverse, the pattern occurs flanking the transparent window, with denominations having the same pattern on the right and different patterns on the left. On the reverse, it occurs in the lower strip containing the banknote's serial number.

Counterfeiting

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The security features in the Frontier series make counterfeiting the banknotes more difficult than counterfeiting banknotes from earlier series.

By late 2011, the $100 banknote had been counterfeited, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police arrested four individuals of a counterfeiting operation in Richmond, British Columbia, and seized partially completed, counterfeit $100 banknotes with a face value of $1.2 million.[79] In May 2013, counterfeit $100 banknotes were found in circulation in New Westminster and other parts of the Lower Mainland in British Columbia.[79] They were described by New Westminster police sergeant Diana McDaniel as "very well done", but they were missing three security features in the reproduction—a line of printed numerals in the transparent window, the flag atop the East Block in the lower metallic foil, and the raised ink.[79][80] About 175 copies of the banknotes were found in circulation.[18]

By May 2013, there were 56 cases of counterfeit banknotes known to the Bank of Canada.[81] Offences related to the production, printing, publication, possession, distribution, use, or circulation of counterfeit currency, or owning, repairing, or using machines or other tools used for the production of counterfeit currency are part of section XII, Offences relating to currency, of the Criminal Code, in sections 448–462.[82][83] The RCMP maintains a National Anti-Counterfeiting Bureau (NACB) to coordinate policing regarding counterfeit currency, and is the central repository for seized counterfeit money.[84][85] NACB also has the responsibility for destroying all counterfeit currency once it has been analyzed and is no longer needed for court proceedings.[85]

Reception

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The banknote designs were criticised by Keith Rushton, chairman of the graphic design department at the Ontario College of Art and Design, as being "trite, banal, ordinary and not too inspiring".[32] Botanist Sean Blaney told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation that the depiction of the maple leaf on the banknote is that of an invasive five-lobed Norway Maple, not a maple tree indigenous to Canada such as the three-lobed sugar maple.[16][86][87] A spokesperson for the Bank of Canada stated that the design was "a stylized blend of different Canadian maple species".[87] The 2009 focus group report stated that the image of the train on the $10 banknote was attractive but uninspiring and outdated, and it drew complaints from people in Atlantic Canada where many "railway links have been decommissioned".[69]

Automated teller machines, vending machines, note-sorting equipment, ticket and parking lot machines, slot machines, self-checkout machines, and other banknote processing equipment had to be upgraded to process the polymer banknotes,[32] a process that began six months before the introduction of the banknotes.[88][89] The Bank of Canada provided sample bills to 85 equipment manufacturing companies so they could update the software that operates the machines.[88] By the time the $20 banknote was released into circulation, vending machines operated by about half of the members of the Canadian Automatic Merchandising Association did not accept the Frontier banknotes.[16] Some vending machine operators waited until the release of all the banknotes before updating their machines.[16] Once the update software was tested, reprogramming each machine consisted of an automated task requiring an on-site visit by a technician.[19] Sabbir Kabir of the Canadian National Vending Alliance stated that the sample banknotes were not the same as those introduced into circulation, such as the image being offset in one version or each printing being cut differently.[19] The offset problem was fixed in December 2012.[19] The Bank of Canada expected the industry to spend between $75 and $100 million to update machines to process the polymer banknotes.[37]

In 2013, during the introduction of the Frontier $5, $20 and $100 bills, discussions regarding the new series compared the smell of the polymer notes to maple syrup.[90][91] Some also claimed that the notes were melting in hot summer temperatures, though the melting point of the polypropylene used in the composition of the notes is significantly higher than can be achieved in most domestic settings.[92]

In July 2013, a petition organized by historian Merna Forster and addressed to Stephen Poloz and Jim Flaherty campaigned to have the Bank of Canada feature "significant Canadian women" on banknotes.[93][94] It drew support from famous Canadian women, including Margaret Atwood, Kim Cattrall and Cynthia Dale, and from several Members of Parliament, including Bruce Hyer, Peggy Nash, and Murray Rankin.[93][95][94] It was also supported by the Because I am a Girl campaign.[94] The petition was started because of the exclusion of women from the banknote designs and stated that earlier banknotes included women, such as the fifty-dollar banknote of the 2001 Canadian Journey series which featured The Famous Five and Thérèse Casgrain on the reverse.[96] The petition was delivered to Poloz, who stated that the Bank of Canada was "absolutely open to the idea" of incorporating portraits of famous Canadian women in future banknote series.[95] Poloz sent a reply letter to Forster on 4 November 2013.[97] In March 2018, the first bill in the Vertical series, the ten-dollar bill featuring Viola Desmond, was announced.[98]

A spokeswoman for the Chinese Canadian National Council stated that the revisions to the image of the scientist on the $100 banknote reflected the Bank of Canada "caving to ... racist feedback".[21] A Bank of Canada spokesperson later apologized for the change.[86]

The media reported various complaints about the banknotes, including that new banknotes stuck together, some vending machines did not recognize or accept them, and that they may melt when exposed to high heat.[16] An individual will be reimbursed for a damaged banknote only if the banknote's serial number is known.[99] A report by the Calgary Herald based on an informal survey it conducted in 2013 stated that Calgarians complained about the "same old faces, and the same old colours".[100]

Legacy

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As each banknote was put into circulation, the same denomination from earlier banknote series began being withdrawn from circulation by the Bank of Canada.[101] The Bank of Canada expected the 2011 Frontier series to become the dominant banknotes in circulation by late 2015 or early 2016,[102] with at least 70% of older $20 banknotes removed from circulation within 18 months of issuing the polymer $20 banknotes.[103] By November 2013, about 700 million banknotes of the $20, $50, and $100 denominations had been released into circulation.[11] The Bank of Canada printed 580 million polymer banknotes in 2012 and 675 million in 2013.[104] The operating costs for the 2013 second-quarter of the Bank of Canada increased 23% from the previous year, nearly half of which was a result of printing the polymer banknotes.[104]

During the introduction of the $5 and $10 banknotes, a spokesman for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police stated that counterfeiting of the polymer $20, $50 and $100 banknotes that had been previously released was dramatically lower than that of previous series.[57] By late 2013, the counterfeit ratio had been reduced to below 40 PPM, and about 5% of retailers still refused to accept $100 banknotes for payment.[6]

The Bank of Canada expected the 2011 Frontier series to last about eight years.[37] It issued polymer banknotes into circulation in exchange for paper banknotes of earlier series which were then removed from circulation.[6] Because of the increased lifespan of the Frontier banknotes compared to earlier banknote series, the Bank of Canada expected to replace smaller volumes of worn and damaged banknotes than it did in previous years.[101] When removed from circulation, the polymer banknotes are recycled instead of being destroyed like the paper-based banknotes of previous series.[59][31] By early November 2012, at least 315 banknotes had to be replaced because of damage.[16] As a result of decreased demand for banknote printing services, BA International closed its Ottawa printing operation in 2012[43][105] and sold it to Canadian Bank Note Company for $10.2 million in 2013.[106]

In March 2012, the Canadian National Institute for the Blind issued a press release lauding the "touch, sight and electronic signal features" of the polymer banknotes.[107] The Bank of Canada patented a machine-readable feature created by its researchers during development of the Frontier series.[13] It was first used in the Frontier series and adapted for commercial production by one of the development partners.[13]

The communications and information company MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates, which developed the robotic systems deployed to space by the Canadian Space Agency which appear on the $5 banknote, sent some members of the media a promotional package containing a $5 banknote and a letter in January 2014.[108] The letter stated that the release of the banknotes afforded the company "a unique opportunity to highlight Canada's tremendous accomplishments in space" as well as the company's role in a "very cost-effective way".[108]

The Bank of Canada commissioned a life-cycle assessment of the 2001 Canadian Journey and 2011 Frontier series banknotes to evaluate the environmental impact of the life cycle of each banknote.[109]

After officials at the Bank of England confirmed reports that the polymer £5 note issued in September 2016 contained traces of tallow,[110] a rendered animal fat derived from suet, Bank of Canada officials stated that additives in the polymer pellets used for producing banknotes in the Frontier series contained trace quantities of tallow.[111]

Notes

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References

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Further reading

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Frontier (banknotes)

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from Grokipedia
The Frontier series constitutes the seventh series of banknotes issued by the for the Canadian dollar, comprising polymer substrate notes in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, introduced progressively from 2011 to 2013 to enhance security against counterfeiting and improve durability over previous paper-based series. The series debuted with the $100 note in November 2011, followed by the $50 note in March 2012, the $20 note in November 2012, the $10 note in March 2013, and the $5 note in March 2013, marking Canada's adoption of polymer technology inspired by successful implementations in countries like to reduce production costs and extend note lifespan through resistance to wear and environmental factors. These notes incorporate advanced features, including transparent windows with holographic elements such as a , raised tactile printing for identification by the visually impaired, and intricate transparent structures that are difficult to replicate, contributing to a reported decline in counterfeiting incidents post-issuance. Designs emphasize Canadian achievements in , , and , with reverse sides depicting elements like the Vimy Memorial, Arctic icebreakers, and technology, while obverses feature portraits of prime ministers ($5 and $10), Sir Robert Borden ($100), and Queen Elizabeth II ($20 and $50). A commemorative $20 note issued in 2015 for the Royal Canadian Air Force centenary further highlighted the series' versatility in incorporating thematic updates while maintaining core security protocols.

Background and Development

Historical Context of Canadian Banknotes

Prior to the establishment of the Bank of Canada in 1934, Canadian banknotes were issued by a variety of entities, including provincial governments, chartered banks, and the Dominion of Canada government starting in 1870, resulting in a fragmented currency system prone to inconsistencies and limited public confidence. Emergency paper currency, such as playing cards, had been used as early as 1685 in New France to address coin shortages during conflicts. Chartered banks continued issuing notes until the Bank of Canada's monopoly on federal note issuance began in 1935, marking the transition to a centralized, uniform national currency designed to stabilize the money supply amid the Great Depression. The Bank of Canada's inaugural 1935 series included denominations from $1 to $1,000, featuring portraits of British royalty and Canadian prime ministers, with two commemorative notes issued to celebrate the bank's founding and King George V's . In 1937, a modified series introduced bilingual (English and French) denominations to comply with new promoting linguistic equity, while retaining core security features like intricate engravings. The 1954 series brought design updates, including off-centre portraits for easier verification, simplified vignettes, and the incorporation of Canada's , alongside early anti-counterfeiting measures such as metallic security strips in higher denominations. Responding to rising counterfeiting in the late 1960s, the series (introduced ) adopted multicoloured printing and thematic reverse designs depicting national landmarks, which reduced forgery rates by complicating reproduction. Subsequent iterations, including the 1986 Birds of Canada series, enhanced security against colour photocopiers with features like diffractive optically variable device (DOVID) elements and embedded metallic threads. The Canadian Journey series (2001–2006) further advanced protections, integrating transparent windows, holographic images, and raised ink, while celebrating cultural and historical motifs; however, these cotton-based paper notes still faced durability issues, lasting only about 6–18 months in circulation depending on denomination, and counterfeiting pressures persisted into the 2000s. This evolution underscored the limitations of traditional substrates, paving the way for the polymer-based series in to prioritize longevity and advanced security amid global trends toward synthetic materials.

Rationale for Polymer Transition

The initiated the transition to polymer substrates for the Frontier series to address escalating ing threats, which had peaked at approximately 470 notes per million genuine notes in circulation by 2004, among the highest rates in economies. Polymer material facilitates advanced security features, such as transparent windows, holographic stripes, and intricate machine-readable elements, that are difficult to replicate and elevate the notes to among the world's most secure. These innovations build on experiences from early adopters like , reducing ing incidence to 35 per million by the time of issuance. Durability represents a core economic driver, with polymer notes demonstrating a circulation lifespan 2.5 to 4 times longer than traditional cotton-based paper notes under Canadian conditions—e.g., $5 denominations lasting about 8 years versus shorter paper equivalents, and higher denominations exceeding 16 years. This extended life lowers replacement frequency, yielding projected savings of over $200 million in production costs over eight years, offsetting the substrate's initial double cost relative to paper despite comparable per-note security enhancements. Environmental considerations further justified the shift, as life-cycle assessments confirmed polymer notes produce at least a 30% smaller than alternatives, primarily through reduced and distribution demands across Canada's vast geography. End-of-life recyclability into items like compost bins mitigates waste, aligning with empirical data from international polymer implementations that prioritize without compromising performance.

Development Process and Timeline

The development of the Frontier series banknotes was led by an interdisciplinary team at the Bank of Canada, comprising physicists, chemists, engineers, and other specialists, in collaboration with industry partners including the Canadian Bank Note Company Ltd. for printing and BA International Inc. for production processes, as well as Note Printing Australia for the polymer substrate supply. Research and planning commenced shortly after the rollout of the preceding Canadian Journey series, building on established expertise in security features and substrates, with a focus on countering rising counterfeiting rates that peaked at 470 incidents per million genuine notes in 2004. Key steps included threat analysis, evaluation of alternative materials, and rigorous testing of approximately 15 million prototype notes to validate manufacturing viability, security enhancements like transparent windows and holographic elements, and overall durability, which proved 2.5 times greater than cotton-paper predecessors. Stakeholder consultations with financial institutions, retailers, law enforcement such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and the public via innovation workshops shaped thematic designs emphasizing Canadian frontiers in science, innovation, and exploration. The polymer substrate, specifically Guardian® polypropylene, was selected after technical and financial assessments demonstrated superior resistance to wear, reduced long-term production costs exceeding $200 million over eight years through fewer replacements, and environmental advantages including recyclability into items like trash bin liners. This choice addressed empirical shortcomings of paper notes, such as higher soiling rates and vulnerability to advanced reproduction technologies, while incorporating user-centric features like tactile marks for the visually impaired, informed by focus groups including the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. The series timeline featured phased issuance to allow adaptation by financial systems and the public: the overall polymer transition was unveiled by Governor on June 20, 2011; the inaugural $100 note entered circulation on November 14, 2011; the $50 note followed on March 26, 2012; the $20 note on November 7, 2012; and the $5 and $10 notes simultaneously on November 7, 2013, completing the set.

Design Elements

Thematic Motivations and Innovations

![Chris Hadfield unveiling $5 banknote of the Frontier Series from ISS][float-right] The Frontier series derives its thematic core from the concept of "frontiers," symbolizing Canada's enduring spirit of , , and achievement across historical, scientific, and technological domains. This motif was selected to represent the nation's collective progress, shifting focus from individual portraits to vignettes illustrating pivotal milestones that underscore pioneering endeavors at home, abroad, and in space. The aimed to evoke national pride through designs that highlight tangible contributions, such as advancements in and , thereby educating users on Canada's role in global . Specific denominations embody distinct frontiers: the $100 note centers on medical science innovations, featuring DNA double helix and research imagery to denote breakthroughs in ; the $50 note portrays Arctic sovereignty and climate research via ships and polar landscapes; the $20 note commemorates military valor at the Vimy Memorial, representing historical sacrifices; the $10 note depicts technology evolution; and the $5 note illustrates with the Canadarm2 robotic arm aboard the . These choices motivate a of resilience and forward momentum, contrasting with prior series' emphasis on cultural icons by prioritizing empirical accomplishments verifiable through historical records. Design innovations extend the thematic intent through polymer-enabled aesthetics, including fully transparent windows embedded with maple leaf motifs that allow light to interact dynamically with symbolic elements, enhancing perceptual engagement without altering core narratives. This substrate facilitates bolder colors and intricate patterns that amplify the exploratory theme, such as holographic strips evolving from past artifacts to futuristic projections, fostering a sense of progression. Public consultations informed selections to ensure relevance, prioritizing motifs with broad evidential support over subjective interpretations.

Accessibility and User-Centric Features

The Frontier series incorporates enhanced tactile features to aid identification by the visually impaired, featuring raised six-dot symbols in the upper left corner of the obverse side, consisting of two columns of three dots separated by smooth surfaces. The number and spacing of these symbols denote the denomination: one symbol for the $5 note, two for the $10, three for the $20, four for the $50, and two with a wider smooth surface for the $100 compared to the $10. These polymer notes allow tactile reading from both short edges, an improvement over prior paper series. Additionally, raised ink is applied to the large prime numeral, the shoulders of the primary portrait, and the words "Bank of Canada" and "Banque du Canada," providing further distinguishable texture. Visual accessibility is supported by large, high-contrast numerals: dark figures on a pale background on the obverse and white numerals on a dark background on the reverse across all denominations. Each denomination employs a distinct dominant color to facilitate quick visual differentiation—blue for $5, purple for $10, green for $20, red for $50, and brown for $100—enhancing for those with low vision. The substrate itself offers a unique smooth texture distinct from paper notes, aiding material verification by touch. User-centric enhancements include bank note reader codes printed on both short ends, compatible with electronic aids like the CNIB's device or apps such as Seeing AI for audio denomination announcement. These features represent refinements over the Canadian Journey series, with the tactile marks engineered for greater durability on the base to withstand handling without degradation. The design prioritizes empirical for broad , ensuring features serve both sighted and non-sighted users effectively.

Production Techniques

Substrate Composition and Durability

The Frontier series banknotes employ a polymer substrate composed of biaxially oriented (BOPP), a thin, transparent, and flexible film material that replaces the traditional cotton-linen used in prior Canadian series. This substrate is produced by stretching in two directions to enhance tensile strength and clarity, enabling advanced security features like transparent windows while maintaining printability. The BOPP significantly improves durability over substrates, resisting soiling from daily handling, extreme folding (up to 40,000 folds in tests simulating circulation wear), and environmental factors such as moisture without delaminating or tearing. monitoring of millions of circulated notes has shown polymer denominations lasting 2.5 to 4 times longer than equivalent paper notes, with conservative lifecycle assessments initially projecting 2.5 times based on international precedents. Specific estimated in-circulation lifespans include approximately 8 years for $5 notes, 11 years for $10 notes, 16 years for $20 notes, and at least 16 years for $50 and $100 notes, determined through empirical tracking and predictive modeling of wear rates. This extended lifespan reduces replacement frequency, yielding cost savings estimated at over CAD 500 million over the series' introduction period and lowering environmental impacts via decreased material and energy use in production, as quantified in lifecycle analyses comparing to cotton-paper substrates. The polymer's non-porous surface further minimizes dirt accumulation, contributing to sustained legibility and functionality during use.

Printing Methods and Quality Control

The Frontier series banknotes are produced by the Canadian Bank Note Company Limited (CBNC) under contract with the , utilizing specialized techniques adapted for the biaxially oriented substrate. Primary printing methods include offset for multicolored backgrounds, fine-line patterns, and intricate details, which enables high-precision color application and registration across large sheets printed simultaneously on both sides. Intaglio printing is employed for tactile security elements, such as raised portraits, legends, and signatures, where engraved plates apply thick ink layers under high pressure to create detectable texture and depth, enhancing both security and accessibility for the visually impaired. Additional production steps involve applying optically variable devices, holographic foils, and transparent windows through specialized processes like and , integrated post-offset to embed security features within the polymer structure. A clear overcoating is then applied to seal the inks, improve resistance, and extend circulation life, with the entire process conducted in secure facilities to prevent counterfeiting risks during . Quality control encompasses multi-stage inspections using automated high-speed scanners and sensors to detect defects in print registration, ink density, color fidelity, and substrate integrity, ensuring compliance with specifications before release. Security features undergo verification for functionality, including tilt tests for holograms and transparency checks for windows, while durability assessments simulate circulation wear through accelerated aging protocols, confirming polymer notes' average lifespan of 2.5 times that of cotton-paper predecessors. , the employs its Currency Inventory Management Strategy, analyzing returned notes via imaging systems to monitor ongoing quality and inform iterative improvements, with soiled or unfit notes shredded for recycling. These measures have contributed to low counterfeiting rates, with polymer introduction correlating to a decline from 496 incidents per million notes in 2011 to under 50 by 2013.

Denominations and Specific Features

$5 Note Details

The $5 note in Canada's Frontiers series, the first polymer denomination featuring Sir , was unveiled on April 30, 2013, by astronaut from the during Expedition 35, and issued for circulation on November 7, 2013. Laurier, who served as from 1896 to 1911, appears on the obverse alongside the of in , symbolizing Canadian governance, with a large transparent window incorporating a holographic for security. The reverse emphasizes Canada's space exploration achievements, depicting the Canadarm2 robotic manipulator and Dextre servicing robot—both Canadian contributions to the —alongside an and a global view of from , highlighting national in science and . The note's blue and green color scheme aids denomination identification, while raised ink on key elements like Laurier's portrait and large numerals enhances tactile for the visually impaired. Security features align with the series standard, including a see-through number 5 that changes color from blue to green when tilted, microprinted text, and intricate fine-line patterns resistant to reproduction. The substrate provides durability, with an estimated circulation lifespan of approximately 8 years, longer than the paper predecessor due to resistance to wear, folding, and moisture. No unique denomination-specific security beyond the transparent window's design exists, but the note's low value limits counterfeiting targets compared to higher denominations.

$10 Note Details

![Back of the Canadian $10 Frontier series banknote][center] The $10 denomination in the Frontier series is printed predominantly in violet hues and measures 152 mm by 64 mm. It features a of Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada's first , on the obverse, positioned to the right with raised ink for tactile identification. The obverse also includes the in , integrated into the transparent security window that displays a detailed when held to light. On the reverse, the note depicts VIA Rail's passenger train winding through the , highlighting Canada's expansive geography and history. This imagery draws from photographs provided by and emphasizes the engineering achievements of transcontinental rail lines. Subtle motifs are incorporated throughout, with the large transparent window aligning elements from both sides for verification. The note entered circulation on November 7, 2013, following its unveiling earlier that year. It incorporates series-standard substrate and security features, such as holographic images and , tailored to deter counterfeiting while maintaining thematic consistency with national innovation and resilience. Circulation of this design ceased upon the introduction of a replacement vertical-format $10 note on November 19, 2018.

$20 Note Details

The $20 banknote in Canada's Frontier polymer series was issued into circulation by the Bank of Canada on November 7, 2012, following its design unveiling on May 2, 2012. This denomination features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse, utilizing an updated image to commemorate her Diamond Jubilee in 2012. The reverse side depicts the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France, selected to honor Canada's historical military contributions and sacrifices in conflicts such as the First World War. Like other Frontier notes, the $20 uses a biaxially oriented substrate for enhanced durability, resisting wear approximately 2.5 times longer than previous notes in circulation. Key design elements include a vertical orientation emphasis with architectural motifs, such as the visible in the transparent window, integrating seamlessly with the imagery on the reverse. The note measures 152 mm by 69 mm and employs for tactile elements, including raised on the large "20" numeral, the Queen's portrait frame, and inscription words like "" and "BANQUE DU CANADA." Security features specific to verification include a large transparent polymer window with a frosted maple leaf that reveals a clear outline when held to light, alongside metallic images of the numeral "20" and maple leaves that shift color under tilt. Additional elements comprise a holographic stripe with repeating "CANADA 20" text, a security thread embedded vertically, and microprinted details in the Vimy Memorial scene verifiable under magnification. Fluorescence under UV light displays threads and patterns, while the note's overall design incorporates fine-line patterns and guilloché to deter reproduction. A commemorative variant of the $20 note was released on September 9, 2015, to mark Queen Elizabeth II's record as Canada's longest-reigning monarch, featuring modified transparent window elements with poppies symbolizing alongside maple leaves. This edition retains all standard security features but includes unique visual motifs in the large window, such as a holographic poppy and additional commemorative inscriptions, while maintaining the Vimy Memorial on the reverse. The commemorative note was produced in limited quantities for collector distribution rather than general circulation.

$50 Note Details

The $50 banknote of Canada's Frontier series, made from substrate, was issued into circulation on March 26, 2012. It measures 152.4 by 69.85 millimetres and features a predominantly red colour scheme, with design elements emphasizing Canada's northern frontier and Arctic research capabilities. The obverse prominently displays a portrait of , who served as Canada's longest-tenured across terms from 1921 to 1930 and 1935 to 1948. Accompanying the portrait are architectural details from the of , including a Gothic Revival tower depicted as a ventilation shaft with arched patterns and stone carvings. The reverse illustrates the CCGS Amundsen, a Pierre Radisson-class research operated by the Canadian Coast Guard, shown navigating waters with a visible used for underwater scientific sampling. Additional motifs include a map outlining Canada's , a symbolizing exploration, and the word "" rendered in to highlight Indigenous linguistic heritage in northern contexts. Security elements integrated into the $50 note align with the series' polymer innovations, including raised ink on the portrait, "," " – BANQUE DU CANADA," and the large numeral "50" for tactile verification. A transparent frosted window spans the note's width, bordered by metallic maple leaves that shift appearance under light; tilting reveals a metallic portrait frame changing from gold to green. These features, combined with the note's durable biaxially oriented material, enhance resistance to counterfeiting and everyday wear compared to prior paper-based designs.

$100 Note Details

The $100 note is the highest denomination in Canada's Frontier polymer banknote series, issued by the on November 14, 2011, coinciding with . Measuring 152.4 by 69.85 millimetres, it emphasizes the theme of medical innovation, highlighting Canadian contributions such as the 1921 discovery of insulin by and Charles Best. The note was unveiled at the in , near the original Banting and Best laboratory site. The obverse prominently features a portrait of Sir Robert Borden, Canada's eighth from 1911 to 1920, alongside a depiction of the East Block of Parliament in Gothic Revival style. Symbolic elements include a researcher examining a specimen under a Axioplan 2 microscope, a 1923 insulin bottle replica, a stylized DNA double helix representing future advancements, and an electrocardiogram waveform denoting innovations like the cardiac pacemaker developed by John Hopps. The reverse reinforces the medical innovation motif with a central image of a researcher at a microscope, accompanied by the DNA helix, electrocardiogram readout, and the 1923 insulin bottle. Security features tailored to the note include a large transparent window bordered by maple leaves, containing a frosted maple leaf outline and a colour-shifting metallic portrait of Borden visible from both sides that changes hue when tilted. Additional elements comprise raised ink on the denomination numeral, "Bank of Canada," and "Canada" text for tactile verification, and a colour-shifting foil overlay of the East Block tower within the window. Authenticity can be confirmed by feeling the raised ink, tilting for the metallic shift, and viewing the frosted window against light.

Security Measures

Core Security Technologies

The Frontier series banknotes, introduced by the starting in 2011, incorporate a polymer substrate composed primarily of biaxially oriented , which serves as a foundational security technology due to its synthetic nature that resists replication by standard printing methods used for paper currency. This material enables unique transparent —prominently featuring a large central with intricate maple leaf motifs and micro-perforations—that are visible from both sides of the note, embedding holographic-like diffractive elements and metallic images that shift appearance under light or tilt. Additional core features include raised intaglio applied to portraits, numerals, and borders, providing a tactile verification method detectable by touch, which is particularly effective for and detection without specialized equipment. Metallic portraits and symbols, integrated into the transparent areas, exhibit iridescent effects and fine-line patterns that are challenging to , while optically variable inks on certain elements change color when viewed at an angle, further complicating reproduction. along edges and within windows, readable only under magnification, adds microscopic detail layers that degrade in quality during unauthorized duplication attempts. These technologies collectively form a multi-layered defense, with the base allowing for embedded features not feasible on cotton-linen paper, resulting in reported reductions in counterfeiting rates post-issuance; for instance, the series' deters illicit production by requiring specialized machinery for the substrate and precise alignment of transparent components. All denominations share these uniform features, enabling consistent public verification through simple "feel, look, and tilt" checks promoted by the .

Counterfeiting Statistics and Responses

The introduction of the Frontier series polymer banknotes coincided with a marked decline in counterfeiting prevalence. In 2014, following the rollout of higher-denomination polymer notes, 62,418 counterfeit notes were passed into circulation, representing a rate of 36 counterfeits per million genuine notes. By 2015, this figure dropped sharply to 16,445 passed counterfeits, a 74% reduction from the prior year, attributed to the difficulty in replicating substrates and embedded features like transparent windows and metallic holograms. The counterfeit rate stabilized at low levels thereafter, with the total volume in 2024 at 22,478 passed notes—a 64% decrease from 2014 levels—and face value losses halving to $1.2 million.
YearCounterfeits Passed into Circulation
201462,418
201516,445
201617,504
201722,794
201833,437
201933,732
202018,965
202117,228
202215,332
202317,043
202422,478
Responses to residual counterfeiting have included iterative security upgrades, such as the vertical orientation and advanced optically variable devices in the 2018 $10 Frontier note, which further deter replication. The Bank of Canada and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) conduct ongoing monitoring, with law enforcement seizing tens of thousands of counterfeit notes annually—46,988 in 2024 alone—to disrupt production networks. Public education campaigns emphasize verification techniques, including tilting for holographic shifts, checking translucent maple leaf windows for denomination numbers, and using UV light for fluorescent features, reducing pass rates by empowering retailers and consumers. Recent advisories address sophisticated polymer-printed fakes mimicking tactile and visual elements, urging immediate reporting to police. Despite these measures, small-scale operations persist, targeting denominations like the $100 Frontier note, which accounted for 7,650 detected counterfeits in 2024.

Economic and Practical Impacts

Durability, Circulation, and Cost Efficiency

The Frontier polymer banknotes demonstrate superior to traditional cotton- notes, primarily due to the biaxially oriented substrate, which resists tearing, folding damage, moisture, and soiling more effectively. The conservatively estimated that these notes would endure at least 2.5 times longer in circulation than paper equivalents, based on accelerated aging tests and operational data from countries like that adopted polymer earlier. Independent assessments, including lifecycle modeling, confirm this multiplier, with polymer notes projected to withstand typical handling stresses—such as repeated folding and —for periods exceeding those of paper by a factor of 2 to 3, depending on denomination and usage intensity. This extended lifespan directly enhances circulation dynamics by reducing turnover rates; for example, a $20 polymer note is expected to remain viable for handling volumes that would render a paper counterpart unfit sooner, thereby maintaining higher volumes of notes in active use with less frequent redistribution from vaults. Empirical tracking via the Bank's note distribution system has shown that polymer introduction correlated with sustained or increased circulation stocks through periods of economic stress, as fewer notes reach the fitness threshold for destruction—defined by criteria like soil accumulation, edge tears, or print wear—within the first 1–2 years. Higher denominations, handled less abrasively, exhibit even longer survival times, further optimizing the overall velocity without proportional increases in issuance. On cost efficiency, polymer notes incur higher upfront production expenses—approximately 20–30% more per unit due to substrate and specialized printing processes—compared to paper notes. However, the 2.5-fold durability gain yields net savings over the notes' lifecycle, as replacement printing, transportation, and destruction costs drop substantially; the has reported that this shift amortizes initial investments through reduced annual processing volumes, with polymer's lower cull rates translating to long-term fiscal benefits estimated in the tens of millions annually across denominations. Lifecycle analyses, incorporating , distribution, and end-of-life factors, substantiate that polymer's total cost per effective circulation year is lower than paper's, despite the premium materials, by minimizing the frequency of full-series reprints required every few years. These efficiencies have been validated in post-implementation reviews, confirming the Bank's rationale for the 2011–2013 rollout despite elevated startup expenditures.

Environmental Considerations and Lifecycle Analysis

The Bank of Canada conducted a life cycle assessment (LCA) comparing the environmental impacts of polymer banknotes, as used in the Frontier series, with traditional cotton-paper notes, evaluating stages from raw material extraction through production, distribution, use, and end-of-life disposal. This analysis, completed in 2011 by the National Research Council Canada, assumed polymer notes last 2.5 times longer in circulation—approximately 2.5 years versus 1 year for paper—based on data from countries like Australia and Mexico with established polymer programs. The assessment used ISO 14040/14044 standards, incorporating metrics such as global warming potential, acidification, eutrophication, and resource depletion, while accounting for Canada's specific printing volumes and recycling rates. Key findings indicated that notes reduce overall environmental impact by at least 30% across all categories compared to paper notes, primarily due to lower production frequency from enhanced , which minimizes use and for manufacturing replacements. For instance, was 32% lower for , driven by reduced fiber demands— production requires significant (about 10,000 liters per ) and pesticides—versus polypropylene derived from but requiring less per note over the lifecycle. Acidification and impacts were similarly diminished by 30-40%, as fewer notes mean less transportation emissions and waste generation during use. These benefits hold under sensitivity analyses varying lifespan assumptions by up to 50%, confirming robustness despite 's origins. Production of series polymer notes involves biaxially oriented polypropylene substrates coated with inks and security features, with energy-intensive steps like and offset by from durability; annual production dropped post-2011 as notes circulated longer, saving an estimated millions in material costs annually. End-of-life management favors demonetization and shredding, with polymer fragments recyclable into low-grade plastics like or bags, though Canada's low rate for soiled notes (under 10% as of 2011) relies more on via , which recovers about 20-30% of compared to landfilling paper. Unlike paper, which biodegrades but releases in landfills, polymer resists degradation, potentially prolonging persistence if not properly managed, yet the LCA quantifies net positives from reduced lifecycle volumes. Post-implementation data from 2011-2020 validated the LCA, with notes achieving observed lifespans aligning with or exceeding model predictions, further lowering impacts; for example, the $20 note, the most circulated denomination, required 25% fewer print runs than equivalents. Independent reviews, such as those by the on similar substrates, corroborate these reductions, attributing 60-80% of savings to circulation longevity rather than material alone. While critics note 's non-biodegradability and oil dependency, empirical lifecycle metrics prioritize total emissions over material renewability, supporting the series' environmental rationale without unsubstantiated offsets like carbon credits.

Reception and Controversies

Public and Institutional Reception

The introduction of the Frontier series polymer banknotes elicited mixed initial public reactions, primarily centered on their tactile differences from traditional notes. A 2013 Environics Research poll commissioned by the revealed that 38% of respondents identified the notes' tendency to stick together as the primary complaint, followed by 29% noting the unfamiliar feel and 17% citing slipperiness. Higher-income expressed greater approval, with overall sentiment leaning positive or neutral at 61%, reflecting to the material's novelty alongside appreciation for enhanced security features. Public acceptance improved over time, driven by empirical evidence of the notes' benefits. By 2015, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported a 74% decline in passed counterfeit bills compared to pre-polymer levels, attributing this to the series' advanced features like transparent windows and micro-perforations, which public education campaigns emphasized. Durability tests confirmed polymer notes circulated 2.5 times longer than predecessors, reducing replacement frequency and indirectly addressing user familiarity through consistent availability. Institutionally, the and financial regulators viewed the series as a success in advancing anti-counterfeiting measures. Governor described the notes in 2011 as "secure, durable and innovative," positioning them at the forefront of global technology and establishing a benchmark for other central banks. Financial institutions reported operational efficiencies from lower sorting and replacement costs, with no widespread institutional opposition; instead, sector-wide adoption supported broader by curbing forgery-related losses estimated at over $100 million annually prior to the series.

Criticisms on Design, Cost, and Implementation

The vertical orientation of Frontier series banknotes has drawn criticism for incompatibility with traditional wallets, billfold compartments, and automated dispensers designed for horizontal formats, complicating everyday handling and storage. Focus group feedback during the $100 note's development prompted the to remove an image of a perceived as Asian, citing concerns over her ethnicity's alignment with Canadian narratives; this decision elicited accusations of racial in selection processes from advocacy groups and media commentators. Polymer substrate vulnerabilities surfaced in reports of notes deforming or when exposed to high heat, such as in vehicles or under irons, undermining claims of superior durability over predecessors; the maintained these incidents involved extreme conditions but acknowledged isolated replacements. Tactile features intended for visually impaired users, consisting of raised patterns distinct from , have been noted to erode in relief and clarity after circulation, reducing independent denomination reliability compared to fresh notes. Production costs for individual polymer notes averaged approximately 20 cents each, roughly double the 11 cents for equivalent cotton-paper notes, necessitating an initial budget expansion for the despite projected lifecycle savings from extended circulation—estimated at 2.5 times longer lifespan. Critics have questioned the net economic benefits, pointing to upgrade expenses for vending machines and sorters incompatible with polymer's stiffness and transparency, alongside unverified assumptions about reduced replacement volumes offsetting upfront premiums. Implementation challenges included phased issuance from 2011 to 2013, which prolonged adaptation periods for financial institutions and retailers, exacerbating temporary disruptions in cash-handling equipment recalibration. Public petitions highlighted underrepresentation of women in designs—despite inclusions like the $100 note's —arguing the selection principles inadequately prioritized gender diversity amid broader calls for inclusive . Overall, while empirical data affirm reduced counterfeiting post-rollout, these factors fueled regarding the series' practical superiority and fiscal prudence.

Legacy and Ongoing Relevance

Key Achievements and Innovations

The Frontier series introduced polymer substrates to Canadian banknotes, marking a shift from traditional cotton-paper notes to enhance and security. Polymer notes were engineered to withstand at least 2.5 times longer circulation lifespan than their predecessors, reducing replacement frequency and associated processing costs. This innovation drew from experiences in countries like , but Canada adapted it with unique features, including large transparent windows embedding holographic images visible from both sides, which complicate replication efforts. Key security advancements included raised intaglio printing providing tactile elements for visually impaired users, a first in comprehensive application across denominations, alongside metallic portraits and color-shifting maple leaves. These features, combined with the polymer base, positioned the series as a global benchmark in banknote technology, as stated by Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney in 2011. The thematic focus on Canadian frontiers of innovation—such as medical research, space exploration, and historical milestones—integrated educational elements, with designs like the $100 note honoring genetic mapping pioneers. Achievements encompassed verified cost efficiencies and environmental benefits, with polymer notes demonstrating lower lifecycle impacts through recyclability and reduced production needs. Post-issuance data indicated sustained low counterfeiting rates, with volumes dropping 64% from 2014 to 2024, attributable in part to the series' robust defenses amid evolving threats. A 2015 commemorative $20 note for Queen Elizabeth II's record reign further exemplified adaptability, incorporating series innovations while achieving rapid public adoption. The innovative unveiling of the $5 and $10 notes by astronaut from the on April 30, 2013, symbolized the series' alignment with Canada's exploratory ethos.

Future Prospects and Potential Replacements

The has initiated the design and development of successor banknotes to the Frontier Series, incorporating next-generation security features to address evolving counterfeiting threats and maintain public trust in currency authenticity. These updates occur denomination by denomination rather than as a complete series overhaul, allowing for targeted enhancements while the durable substrate of the notes—lasting 2.5 times longer than predecessors—supports extended circulation of existing bills. The process, which spans several years from thematic selection to production, prioritizes advanced authentication technologies alongside thematic elements celebrating Canadian achievements. Specific replacements include the forthcoming $5 note featuring humanitarian , announced on December 16, 2024, by the , which will retain construction but introduce upgraded security elements. Similarly, the next $20 note will depict King Charles III in a vertical format, diverging from the horizontal orientation of most Frontier denominations, with circulation not expected before 2027 due to the extended timeline for research, design, and testing. These vertical designs build on the Frontier Series' precedent with the $10 note, aiming to improve usability for the visually impaired and enhance machine readability. Longer-term prospects hinge on balancing cash's role amid declining physical transactions—cash accounted for under 10% of non-essential payments by 2023—against its enduring utility for , , and contingency needs. While no immediate full replacement for the Frontier Series is planned, ongoing research into superior polymers, embedded sensors, or hybrid digital-physical features could accelerate transitions if counterfeiting rates rise or technological vulnerabilities emerge. Potential shifts toward digital currencies (CBDCs) represent an indirect challenge, as pilot explorations since assess wholesale and retail digital alternatives, though physical notes are projected to persist for the foreseeable future given public preference for tangible in certain contexts.

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  75. https://www.canada.ca/en/news/archive/2013/04/bank-note-unveiling.html
  76. https://www.bankofcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Annual-Report-2024-Bank-of-Canada.pdf
  77. https://www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes/
  78. https://www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes/bank-note-series/vertical-series/our-next-20-bank-note/
  79. https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/king-charles-20-dollar-bill-2027-1.7195593
  80. https://www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes/bank-note-series/vertical-series/
  81. https://www.bankofcanada.ca/publications/annual-reports-quarterly-financial-reports/annual-report-2024/currency/
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