Begin a zodiac-banknote review with the entire note
Make every photograph traceable to one banknote. Record its dimensions with the measuring tool and original unit, without completing the description from a nickname or a similar issue.
Keep the front, back and margins in a fixed orientation. Note any sleeve, album page, seal and sequence separately, using the same identifier as the banknote.
Add the issue or set, denomination, printed year and main designs after reading them on the note. Date supporting documents independently, and list text that cannot be seen or checked safely as unresolved.
Cite the source for issue history
Photograph transmitted-light features with even backlighting and no filter. A lamp held too close can wash out paper fibres and the outlines being examined.
Leave foxing, adhesion, tears and old tape undisturbed, and isolate an affected note from other paper items. Washing, ironing or wiping it with a damp cloth may cause further change.
Support issue, production and historical claims with an identified reference and the date it was consulted. Treat old labels, oral accounts and online pictures as research pointers.
Separate issues before arranging the evidence
For every zodiac note, transcribe its visible name, wording, designs and dimensions, along with the current enclosure and paper condition. Mark an obscured element for later comparison.
Sort a group by set, denomination and design. Both faces, all four corners, prefix and serial number, note dimensions and transmitted-light view must remain attached to the individual banknote.
Preserve the original reading and sequence
Do not break a consecutive run, strapped bundle or original pack merely to take photographs. First capture the seal, first and last visible serials, side profile and stated quantity, then decide whether individual examination is justified.
An old sleeve, album page or annotation can be photographed beside the note, but do not write, stamp or apply a new label to the paper. State exactly what the enclosure prevents you from seeing.
Complete views, details, dimensions, packaging and documents should all carry the banknote identifier. Keep an original measurement or serial transcription when a later correction is added.
Make a later review reproducible
Separate ration coupons, foreign currency, commemorative notes and uncut or joined notes from the zodiac group. Their issue background and collecting category should not be merged.
Photographs can establish visible design and conspicuous damage; they may not reveal paper texture, minute repairs or a feature hidden by an album. Reserve those points for direct examination.
Use the serial position and backlit view to resolve the next gap
Match the set, denomination, printed year and main designs to the complete prefix, serial string and its printed position before returning the note to its sequence. If either group is incomplete, name what is missing instead of continuing from another note.
Use transmitted light to describe what is present and what might be a watermark. Examine patching, recolouring, flattening and replaced-corner clues separately, without pressing or pulling the note to expose them.
A box or accessory contributes provenance, not the identity of the banknote. Record its number, seal and visibility limits apart from observations of the paper itself.
Retain untouched image files. When a number or printed detail needs more clarity, add a newly located close-up rather than strengthening colour or contrast in the original.
Before an enquiry, review the complete views, details, dimensions and packaging once more. Add a missing view of the denomination, design or serial number while leaving the physical note unchanged.
