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Paper Money Day

A fun observance on March 10 celebrating the history, invention, and evolution of paper money, particularly the first federal U.S. paper currency issued in 1862.

Wednesday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 10

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYBusiness

SUBCATEGORYFinancial Literacy

ORIGIN

Community Origin

FOUNDING ENTITY

Not documented

FIRST OBSERVED

Not documented

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The observance commemorates the issuance of the first United States Notes (greenbacks) on March 10, 1862, authorized by the First Legal Tender Act signed by President Lincoln.

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INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate the evolution of currency on Paper Money Day, occurring on March 10! This day commemorates the first recorded use of paper money in China back in the 7th century. Before paper money, people used coins or other valuable items as a form of currency. But with the invention of paper money, trade and commerce became much more efficient and widespread. Today, we can't imagine a world without paper money – it's an essential part of our daily lives. So let's take a moment to appreciate the convenience and history behind this widely-used form of payment!

TIMELINE

Paper Money Day Timeline

Invention of Paper Money

During the Tang Dynasty in China, paper money, known as "jiaozi," was invented and used as a form of exchange.

Marco Polo's Discovery

Italian explorer Marco Polo was amazed by the use of paper money during his journey to China and documented it in his writings.

Swedish Adoption of Paper Money

Sweden became the first European country to introduce paper money as a government-backed form of payment.

First North American Paper Money

The colony of Massachusetts issued the first paper money in the New World to fund military expeditions.

US Federal Paper Currency

The United States government issued its first official paper currency during the Civil War.

Modern Security Features

New techniques, such as holography and microprinting, were introduced to make paper money more secure against counterfeiting.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Paper Money Day

Create paper money art

Get creative and use paper money as your medium for art! You can make collages, origami, or even paint on it to create unique pieces of artwork.

VISIT

Visit a museum or exhibit

Many museums and exhibits have collections of historical paper money. Take the opportunity to learn more about the history of paper money by visiting one of these places.

HAVE

Have a paper money scavenger hunt

Hide paper money around your house or neighborhood and have a scavenger hunt with your friends or family. This is a fun way to celebrate Paper Money Day and can even lead to some unexpected surprises!

DONATE

Donate to a charity that supports financial literacy

Use Paper Money Day as an opportunity to give back. Find a charity that focuses on teaching financial literacy and make a donation in honor of the holiday.

HOST

Host a paper money trivia night

Gather some friends and test your knowledge about paper money by hosting a trivia night! Prepare questions about the history, design, and use of paper money for a fun and educational evening.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Paper Money Day

It promotes economic stability

The use of paper money in commerce helps to regulate inflation and stabilize the economy. It also allows for better record keeping and tracking of financial transactions, promoting transparency and accountability within the financial system.

It has a rich history

Paper money has been around for centuries, with its origins traced back to China in the 7th century. Learning about the evolution and significance of paper money can be both fascinating and educational.

It's convenient and portable

Compared to coins or other forms of currency, paper money is lightweight and easy to carry around. It also allows for quick transactions, making it a convenient form of payment for everyday purchases.

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