Which serial numbers of the fourth series of Renminbi are valuable? Clearly explain the collection | Gu Jin Jian Bao
In 2018, the People's Bank of China announced that some denominations of the fourth series of RMB would cease circulation, causing the collection market to heat up. However, the equation "withdrawn from circulation = valuable" is too simplistic – for the same denomination and design, different prefix numbers can lead to a tenfold or more difference in market price. This article clarifies which prefix numbers have actual collection value and which are just a gimmick.
Basic Knowledge of Prefix Numbers
The serial number of the fourth series of RMB consists of a "prefix" (two letters) + a "serial number" (eight digits). There are several types of prefix numbers that are sought after in the market:
1. First Issue Prefixes (CP, CQ, CR, etc.)
These are the first batch of printed prefixes for each denomination. Their scarcity is moderate, with a premium of about 30-80%. A brand-new 100-yuan note with the first issue prefix CP can fetch HK$800-1,200 (face value around HK$90).
2. Replacement Prefixes (JZ, ZJ, and other prefixes containing 'Z')
These are special batches used to replace defective notes during the printing process, and their mintage is much lower than normal prefixes. Replacement prefixes command the highest premium, with some rare ones reaching 20-50 times their face value.
3. Special Serial Numbers
- Leopard Numbers (ending in 888, 999): Premium of 2-5 times
- Lion Numbers (ending in 8888, 9999): Premium of 5-15 times
- Kirin Numbers (all identical digits, e.g., 88888888): Extremely rare, starting from five-figure Hong Kong dollars
- Birthday Numbers (e.g., 19850315): Have personal commemorative value, premium of 1.5-3 times
Key Varieties for Each Denomination
| Denomination | Version | Brand New (Common Prefix) | First Issue Prefix | Replacement Prefix |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 Yuan | 1980 Version | HK$1,500 | HK$2,500 | HK$8,000+ |
| 100 Yuan | 1990 Version | HK$300 | HK$500 | HK$1,500 |
| 50 Yuan | 1980 Version | HK$4,000 | HK$6,500 | HK$15,000+ |
| 50 Yuan | 1990 Version | HK$200 | HK$350 | HK$800 |
| 10 Yuan | 1980 Version | HK$80 | HK$150 | HK$500 |
| 2 Yuan | 1980 Version | HK$60 | HK$120 | HK$400 |
Risk Warning
There are several risks to be aware of in the collection market for the fourth series of RMB:
- Fake Prefixes: Some unscrupulous merchants use chemicals to alter serial numbers, turning common numbers into leopard numbers. It's necessary to check ink consistency with a UV light.
- Condition Traps: The definitions of "brand new" and "gem uncirculated" can vary between different merchants. PMG grading is the most objective standard.
- Liquidity: The liquidity of common prefix fourth series RMB is low, and you may have to accept a significant discount when selling.
Do you have fourth series RMB you'd like to have appraised? WhatsApp 98342057 with photos, and Gu Jin Jian Bao will provide free identification of prefix value.
