View original document

The full text on this page is automatically extracted from the file linked above and may contain errors and inconsistencies.

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
D E P A R T M E N T OF THE TREASURY

Memorandum
TO

:See Distribution

BUREAU OF ENGRAVING AND PRINTING
DATE: August 25, 1983

FROM :Maurice M. Schneider

Executive Assistant
suBjECT:Study of Mechanisms for the Denomination of Currency by the
Blind or Visually Impaired
I am attaching a final draft copy of the "Study of Mechanisms
for the Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired.ff
Please review it and respond with any comments you may have by
September 7th. If you respond by telephone, please follow with your
comments in writing.

Distribution:
Dr. Graminski
Mr. Regone
\/Mr. Williams







DRAFT




A STUDY OF MECHANISMS FOR
THE DENOMINATION OF U.S.CURRENCY
BY THE BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Table of Contents

I.

INTRODUCTION

1

II.

EXECUTIVE Summary, AND STUDY FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

3

III.

IDENTIFICATION OF FEATURES TO AID THE VISUALLY HANDICAPPED

5

A.
B.
C.
D.
IV.

ANALYSIS OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE UNITED STATES
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.

APPENDIX
APPENDIX
APPENDIX
APPENDIX

General
Target Population
Study of Foreign Currencies
Findings

General
Visual Mechanisms
Tactile Mechanisms
Aural Mechanisms
Summary
Findings

V.

SUMMARY

1
2
3
4

Denomination of Currency
Foreign Government Experience
Feasibility Study - Pocket Currency Reader
Technical Information on Braille




11

16

1.

A*

INTRODUCTION

Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate
possible changes to U. S. currency which will assist the
blind or sight handicapped in distinguishing currency denominations. In developing the recommendation, the study group
reviewed applicable design features utilized by other
countries as well as features which are or will be practicable as a result of technological developments, and
assessed the effect of these features on the production of
U. S. currency.
B.

Background

This study was requested by Congressman Edward R. Roybal,
Chairman of the House Select Committee on Aging, on
February 8, 1983• Significant interest in the development
of U.S. currency to assist the sight impaired, however,
has existed since the early 1970fs. In January 1971f the
Netherlands introduced bank notes with distinctive raised
(tactile) symbols for each denomination. In June' of that
year, Congressman Rarick of Louisiana introduced H.R. 9102
which would have required the incorporation of braille
denomination information in currency. Several similar
resolutions were introduced between 1971 and 1981, none of
which were passed into law.
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) has conducted research into methods of denominating currency over
the past twelve years, including studies in 1976 and 1980.
The 1976 study evaluated the incorporation of braille
markings in currency. Experimental currency notes were
printed and both the physical characteristics of these
notes and the usefulness for sight handicapped individuals
assessed. During 1980, research was done to evaluate the
potential impact of "notching11 notes in unique locations
for each denomination as well as cutting the corners of the
notes.
Both the Federal Reserve System and the U.S. Secret
Service expressed fundamental concerns over problems which
might arise during the transition period when notched or




corner cut and regular currency would co-circulate* The
current study was commissioned to provide a definitive statement on the issue of currency for the blind through a
more exhaustive examination of options than had previously
been undertaken.
C.

Methodology

The study was conducted under the overall direction of
a Steering Committee with representatives from the American
Council of the Blind, the Federal Reserve System, and the
U.S.Secret Service. A Working Group, which consisted of
BEP technical, engraving, and printing specialists, performed background research and prepared the study. Two
electronics consultants, one from the American Foundation
for the Blind and one from the National Science Foundation,
provided information on electronic currency reading machines.
The study itself consisted of three portions:
1. The currencies of 54 foreign nations and the U. S.
were reviewed for certain characteristics which would
contribute to denominination discrimination by the sight
impaired. Those countries which had purposely introduced
intaglio, braille-like denomination symbols were then contacted. They were requested to provide information on the
utility of the measures they had taken as well as to
describe adverse effects encountered during production and
circulation. Five countries responded to this inquiry.
2. The BEP working group then evaluated selected
features on the basis of cost-effectiveness, probable usefulness to the sight impaired, and impact on the production
of currency.
3. Finally, the concept of an automated portable
currency reader was evaluated as an alternative, with or
without any changes in the design of currency. Criteria
used were production feasibility and cost to the consumer.




II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY, FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION
A.

Executive Summary

There are two approaches which can be taken to provide
assistance to the blind and visually handicapped for
distinguishing different denominations of U.S. currency.
These are the incorporation of certain features in the
designs of Federal Reserve Notes and the development of
portable electronic devices which will "read" and provide
denomination information. The usefulness of these measures
varies for different segments of the sight impaired population depending upon the degree of visual impairment. That
population includes persons who have been blind since
birth, those who were blinded later in life, and the partially sighted.
This study is the result of the efforts of a group of
technical specialists from the Bureau of Engraving and
Printing (BEP), under the direction of a Steering Committee
composed of representatives from the American Council of
the Blind, the Federal Reserve System, and the U. S. Secret
Service. The BEP working group assessed various mechanisms
for denominating currency on the basis of cost-effectiveness,
utility to the visually handicapped, and effect on production and circulation. The study findings are based upon a
review of the currencies of 54 foreign nations, the experiences of countries currently producing currency for the
blind, previous research performed by BEP, and findings by
the American Foundation for the Blind. Several high potential mechanisms for denominating currency were identified:
1. Visual mechanisms, including intaglio colors, offset tints, and large, distinct numerals. The use of these
visual devices would aid the partially sighted but would be
of no benefit for the blind. Increased annual cost for
currency for these modifications range from $640,000 to
$3,500,000.




2 V Tactile mechanisms, such as braille-like symbols,
clipped corners, and different sizes. Devices in this
category could be of value to the blind as well as the partially sighted depending upon the device and the tactile
skills of the target population. A design modification
with high apparent utility for the blind and low counterfeitability is sized currency. This option would require
BEP to expend about $26 million in implementation costs and
would increase manufacturing costs by about $7 million per
year.
3. Aural mechanisms, specifically an electronic
"reader" to produce audible signals for different denominations. The working group determined that the development
of a portable electronic currency reader should be
encouraged whether or not actual changes to the design of
currency are proposed.




B.

Findings and Recommendation

CHAPTER III.

IDENTIFICATION OF FEATURES TO AID THE VISUALLY
HANDICAPPED

Findings:
III-1 There are three major categories of the sight handicapped, each with slightly different needs: Those born
blind, those blinded later in life, and the partially
sighted,
III-2 Each of these groups has different skills to use in
identifying the denomination of U. S. currency.
III-3 A survey of 54 foreign nations indicated that the
currencies of all these countries contain some features
which may be of some benefit to the visually impaired population. However, few countries have intentionally designed
currency for this purpose.
III-4 None of the countries contacted indicated that the
systems they were using for denomination of currency by the
blind were completely satisfactory.
III-5 Potentially useful design features are either visual
(colors, large clear numerals) or tactile (braille or
braille-like symbols, cut corners or notches, different
sizes)•
III-6 Electronic technology is presently available which
can produce audible signals identifying bank note denominations.
CHAPTER IV.

ANALYSIS OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE UNITED
STATES

Findings:
IV-1
A potentially effective method of providing currency
denomination information to the sight-impaired is to develop hand-held, electronic currency readers.




IV-2
Based on limited information, it would appear that
the most widely useful currency design change would be to
produce Federal Reserve notes in a different size for each
denomination. However, the effects of such a change on
broad and diverse segments of the population would be monumental.
IV-3
Costs for making currency design changes range from
$640,000 to $6,670,000 per year in addition to initial
costs. Depending upon the design, as many as 150 additional Full-Time (personnel) Equivalents would be required
by BEP to produce modified currency.
IV-4 Changes to currency design and the issuance of new
currency will probably have a significant impact on the
public and private sectors especially on currency handling
and processing equipment such as change machines.
Recommendation:
Pursue the development of and seek funding for a handheld electronic reader to denominate currency.




IIJ.
A.

IDENTIFICATION OF FEATURES TO AID THE VISUALLY
HANDICAPPED

General

In order to identify a range of features which should
aid in the denomination of currency, the working group utilized a three stage process. First, the wtarget
population11, or groups the denomination features would be
designed to help, was identified. Next, the range of practicable options was examined through a review of 54 world
currencies. Finally, the list of options for BEP analysis
was determined, based upon the world currencies, BEP
experience, and research into technological developments.
B.

Target Population

There are actually three different categories of sight
handicapped, each with different abilities which affect
their needs for handling and denominating currency. These
categories include:
»
1. Persons who are born blind or who become blind in
early childhood. They usually develop an excellent sense
of touch and may have the ability to read braille.
Currency with braille-like intaglio (line engraved, raised)
printed symbols would assist this group.
2. Those who become blind later in life as a result of
accident, disease, etc. and whose touch is typically no
better than that of a sighted person of normal sensitivity.
Raised or embossed symbols or braille markings (especially
"jumbo" braille) might assist this group, although many do
not read braille.
3. Individuals who are not totally blind but who have
limited vision. These persons are usually able to distinguish bright, clear colors or large, simple numerals (also
called Sanserif numerals).




The sight handicapped "target population11 is therefore not a single entity, but a composite of individuals
with disparate skill levels, many of whom are not able to
read common braille or >raille-type symbols. To assure the
broadest utility to the visually impaired, features would
have to be selected which accomodate the abilities and
needs of those who are blinded later in life and who may
not have an especially acute sense of touch.
C.

Survey of Foreign Currencies

A list of the currencies of 54 foreign nations was
developed and the designs categorized by denomination (see
Appendix 1). Factors considered as relevant were (differences in) note size, the location of key design features,
color and depth of color, use of intaglio (or raised)
printing, and inclusion of braille or braille-like elements.
The braille elements could be produced in the currency
paper, embossed on the notes, or intaglio printed.
1. There is a good deal of diversity among world
currencies in terms of printing methods as well as design
features. Some of the foreign currencies, such as those of
Belgium, the Netherlands, and Israel intentionally, incorporate features to assist the sight handicapped. Other
currencies contain mechanisms such as colors, which may,
unintentionally assist the sight impaired. Of the 54
currencies reviewed, only that of the United States employs
the same colors for all denominations. Other relevant
currency characteristics which were identified include:
a. Large, simple (sanserif) numerals for denomination - currencies of Ireland, Israel, and the Netherlands
bear this type of numeral isolated from the surrounding
design so as to be distinct and clearly legible.
b. Different sizes for different denominations Twenty-nine of the countries employ a different size for
each denomination. Nine other countries utilize sized
notes for some, but not all, denominations.
c. Braille symbols - None of the surveyed
countries use braille or braille-like symbols which are
embossed on the notes or are manufactured in the paper.
However, Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg, the
Netherlands, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), and Switzerland issue
currency with distinctive symbols imprinted by the intaglio
process.




8

2. -Foreign experience with denomination features -The
seven countries which utilize intaglio printed denomination
symbols on their notes were contacted and asked for an assessment of their experiences* Five countries, Luxembourg,
the Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and Israel, responded.
With the exception of Belgium, the respondents indicated
that the symbols were of some utility to the blind* However,
all of the Central Banks noted that the imprinted symbols
were of limited durability* The Swiss found, through
testing, that raised printing was generally ineffective
after a few months - as soon as the bills lost their
ff
crispnessff. Switzerland also felt that different sizes of
currency was potentially the most effective method of denomination.
The Director of the Central Bank of Belgium indicated
that while the utility of printed symbols to the blind was
questionable, there seemed to be no obvious reason to eliminate the features, (as there seemed to be substantial
drawbacks to other methods of tactile denomination).
Durability of the printed symbols was also found to be a
problem by the Belgians.
3. Selection of features for BEP Evaluation. Based
upon previous research at the Bureau of Engraving and
Printing and the review of, denomination features in foreign
currencies, a list of potential devices for inclusion in
U. S. currency was developed (figure 1). These were categorized by the means the visually handicapped would use to
discriminate between different notes. The major categories
include visual, tactile, and aural techniques. The category for audible signals, which would be produced by
currency "readers", was included in recognition of recent
advances in electronics technology which provide the capability to miniaturize commercially available devices.
Chapter IV discusses the various options in more detail.




D.

FINDINGS.

III-1
There are three major categories of the sight handicapped, each with slightly different needs: Those born
blind, those blinded later in life, and the partially
sighted.
III-2
Each of these groups has different skills to use in
identifying the denomination of U.S. currency.
III-3
A survey of 54 foreign nations indicated that all
the currency of these countries contain some features which
may be of some benefit to the visually impaired population.
However, few countries have intentionally designed currency
for this purpose.
III-4
None of the countries contacted indicated that the
systems they were using for denomination of currency by the
blind were completely satisfactory.
III-5
Potentially useful design features are either visual
(colors, large clear numerals) or tactile (braille or
braille-like symbols, cut corners or notches or different
sizes).
III-6
Electronic technology is presently available which
can produce audible signs identifying bank note denominations.




10

IV.
A.

ANALYSIS OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE UNITED STATES

General

This chapter presents the results of the BEP evaluation of selected features to assist the sight handicapped
in denominating currency. Visual, tactile, and aural techniques are discussed in terms of cost, utility to the target
population, and impact on production and circulation,
B.

Visual Mechanisms

Persons of limited vision can often distinguish
bright, clear colors of different hues as well as large,
simple numbers. Color may be incorporated in currency in
the intaglio printed image, in offset background tints
(surface printing from photographically reproduced plates),
or through tinting of the substrate (paper) during manufacture. To be of the most utility to persons of limited
vision, the colors should be very distinctive, i.e. primary
colors. Colors may, in addition, provide increased counterfeit deterrence value for currency. However, the optimum counterfeit deterrent currency requires more subtle
coloration in order to make reproduction difficult. Such a
configuration which might combine a dark, intaglio image
with pastel offset background designs, would be of limited
use to the sight handicapped.
1. The use of colored intaglio inks would require an
initial cost of at least $470,000 and an annual increase in
BEP costs of $640,000 ($.13 per 1000 Federal Reserve Notes).
An additional 16 Full Time Employee Equivalents (FTEfs)
would also be needed.
2. The introduction of offset (background) tints would
cost at least $2,200,000 initially and $3,460,000 per year.
As many as seventy-two more FTEfs would be required.
3. The manufacturing of currency with large, legible
numerals would require a major design change and the preparation of new currency dies and printing plates. Any
-costs would have to be weighed against the utility for only
a small portion of the visually handicapped population.




11

C.

Tactile Mechanisms

Tactile mechanisms for the denomination of currency by
the blind may be produced by modifications to either the
substrate (paper) or the image (inks, etc.). Substrate
modifications include different sizes (dimensions) for different denominationsj notched edges, clipped corners, or
perforations; and embossed braille or braille-like symbols•
Image modifications include intaglio printed braille-like
symbols and braille-like symbols applied by a hot-melt or
similar embossing procedure.
1. Research by the Central Bank of Switzerland indicates that different sizes of currency by denomination are
most useful to the blind. No exceptional tactual acuity is
required: a small template or coded ruler can be carried
for use in comparing the dimensions of each banknote.
There are several disadvantages to this approach,
however. Inserting new denominations in a sized sequence
would be extremely difficult. For example, introduction of
a $2 bill between a sized $1 and $5 bill would have
required substantial changes in the way BEP produced the
notes as well as the handling by banks and private citizens. The current estimates of implementation costs at BEP
for sized currency is $25,630,000, principally to acquire
new processing equipment and to modify existing printing
and processing equipment. Annual manufacturing requirements would increase costs by about $6,670,000 and would
result in the need for 150 more Full-Time Equivalents.
There would also be costs to the private sector for sized
cash register drawers, modifications of automatic teller
and change machines, etc.
2. Notched edges or clipped corners have frequently
been suggested as a means for the tactile denomination of
currency. However, of the foreign currencies reviewed,
none exhibit this design feature, primarily because wear
characteristics might invalidate the distinctiveness of
notches or cut corners in a relatively short time. A similar mechanism would be the perforation of the substrate
(paper) in a different pattern for each denomination.
Greater tactual acuity would likely be required to
recognize this device than to differentiate notched edges
or clipped corners. Both of these design changes would
necessitate additional capital equipment and staffing. The
initial cost would be about $2,600,000. Annual costs would
be $1,400,000 and require 29 Full-Time Equivalents.




12

_ 3* There are several methods of producing currency
with braille or braille-like symbols. Traditional braille
documents are produced by embossing a special, stiff paper
to produce a series of raised dots in groups or "cells11
which designate letters or numerals. "Jumbo* braille is a
larger, more widely spaced version of braille dots designed
for those possessing a poorer sense of touch. For such
embossing to be retained in a circulating banknote, the
substrate would probably have to be thicker and stiffer
than is typical of currency paper at present.
A related option would be the manufacture of currency
paper (substrate) with inherent (not embossed) patterns of
raised dots. Such a substrate could be produced by selective deposition of extra fibers as a pattern of small lumps
during the papermaking process. In this way, the overall
substrate would not have to be unusually thick or stiff; in
fact, the small lumps would be more easily discernable if
the paper were rather thin and flexible. Alternatively,
the process recently developed by the Minolta Corporation
(Osaka, Japan) for the photocopying in relief of braille
documents could be adapted to currency production: photosensitive microcapsules, included within the substrate,
expand on selective exposure to long-wavelength illumination, creating a three-dimensional reproduction of the
desired dot pattern in acceptable relief for braille. By
this latter method of inherent substrate dot production,
braille patterns could be generated after the banknotes are
printed.
Of the various features considered in this study,
braille-like symbols which are printed by the intaglio
method are the only design elements produced by any country
solely to assist the blind. These elements are an integral
part of the intaglio design, and are simply plate-printed
as a component of the overall intaglio image. As reported
by the Netherlands Bank, intaglio-printed identification
marks are of optimal design when they are of the maximum
height obtainable in plate printing (0.004 in) and the
minimum width necessary to technically realize that height
(0.020 in). However, because the relief achieved by intaglio
printing is only one-fifth that of traditional braille, and
because only a small proportion of the blind can read
genuine braille characters, printed tactile identification
marks usually consist of simple figures recognizable even
at low relief. Symbols formed by narrow lines with an
opening about a finger's width (0.400 in) between them,
such as a square, circle, or triangle, have been found by




13

Dutch researchers to be the most easily recognized. The
tactility of intaglio-printed identification marks can be
enhanced by the design of such symbols using closely spaced
(0.020 in) double lines, in order to reinforce the tactile
effect.
As an option, braille-like symbols or dot patterns
could be applied to printed banknotes as a final stage in
currency production using a hot-melt resin to create the
desired design. In this way, the relief obtainable would
likely be much greater than that achieved by intaglio
printing. The adhesion of such an applied resin to the
currency paper substrate would, however, need to be carefully evaluated.
The utility of braille-like symbols for the blind is
especially limited for these individuals who, because of
age or infirmity, may lack necessary sensitivity or manipulative powers. Although intaglio printed braille-like symbols would be more easily discerned if the currency paper
were rather thin, the height of the symbols will greatly
increase the effective note thickness. This is also true
for embossed or inherent symbols and means that process
changes will have to be made in the handling and storage of
notes. Costs to adapt current BEP equipment will be about
$8,100,000. Annual costs will be about $3*050,000 with a
requirement for 100 Full-Time Equivalents. There may be
additional costs associated with redundant raw material
inventories for dots imbedded in the paper substrate.
Although Israel has encountered no problems with processing
bank notes containing intaglio printed symbols through
their bank's currency hand-ling equipment, no tests have
been run with U.S. currency to determine the effect on
change machines, etc. There is also some question as to
the life of bills with braille markings. At the present
time, $1 bills last about 18-22 months in circulation. The
Federal Reserve System is attempting to upgrade the quality
of currency which may significantly lower the circulation
period. Adding braille dots may further lower the circulation time, requiring greater production and possible
higher equipment expenditures at BEP.
D.

Aural mechanisms

The development of a pocket-sized electronic reader,
into which a banknote could be inserted and from which an
audible signal would be emitted communicating the notefs




denomination, is within the realm of currently available
technology.
Electronic denomination can be based on a
number of different detection mechanisms, including
recognition of images now present in currency. Features
which could be incorporated in currency for instrumental
detection are colors (intaglio or offset); bar codes,
grids, or coded perforations; and threads of specific composition, shape, and/or location which would be embedded in
the substrate.
A desk-top size electronic denomination unit has already been successfully developed under the auspices of
the American Foundation for the Blind. This machine, which
is available through the Foundations Consumer Products
Department, cost around $600.00. A successful reader which
is portable has not yet become commercially available. A
preliminary study sponsored by the Foundation (June 1, 1983)
indicated that development of a miniaturized electric reader
was feasible. Cost to consumers would range from about
$75.00 to $250.00 depending upon sales volume. These estimates are tentative, but could be refined by the Foundation
within 3 months through a more exhaustive analysis, funded
at about $15,000.
Research has been initiated by the Bank of Canada to
evaluate electronic denomination of currency on the basis
of recognition of the different colors employed in the present Canadian banknote issues. As an alternative, the
Canadians have also proposed the electronic recognition of
special grids (cross-hatching) of varying line densities
which could be incorporated as localized design elements in
an intaglio image. The Design Section of the Bureau of
Engraving and Printing has developed a series of experimental Federal Reserve Notes with the oval border of the
portrait area (obverse) redesigned to incorporate an unobtrusive bar code as part of the intaglio design. Such configurations might be refined to enable electronic denomination of 0. S. currency on the basis of bar code recognition.
The incorporation of threads of special composition in
currency paper would also provide a means of denomination.
However, threads or bar codes would present only marginal
advantages in electronic reading over recognition of intaglio
characters now existing in notes.




15

E.

Summary

Each of the proposed design modifications presents
some difficulties in regard to necessary changes to BEP
production methods. Bach requires equipment changes and
additions of personnel. There are also a number of not yet
ascertained costs to the private sector for adaptation of
currency handling, change making equipment, etc. The information which is available from foreign banks, however, would
seem to indicate that more of the sight impaired population
would benefit from different sizes of currency than any
other method of denomination. The different notes could be
easily distinguished through use of a small "template*. The
implementation of this option, however, would have profound
consequences for the public and private sectors in modifying
currency handling equipment (cash registers, change machines)
and issuance of new currency and redemption of replaced notes.
Preliminary indications are that almost as broad a
segment of the sight impaired population would benefit from
use of an electronic device to audibly denominate bank
notes as from sized currency. This option is considered as
the second most useful option only because portable, affordable devices have not yet been commercially developed.
Braille-like symbols would not be as useful for denomination as the sized currency and electronic scanner for three
reasonsi many sight handicapped cannot read braille, the aged
or those who are blinded later in life often do not have an
extremely sensitive sense of touch, and braille symbols
will likely wear down extremely rapidly in circulation.
Notched edges or clipped corners on currency are anticipated to be of some utility. However, none of the
foreign governments surveyed have employed this device in
their currency. Because of this lack of experience with
clipped corners and notches there is some concern about the
effect of these techniques on currency wear charactistics,
public perception of the modified notes, and usability of
the notes in automated currency handling equipment.
Additional problems may arise if notched currency is circulated without recalling presently circulating notes.
Alteration of uncut notes could result in fraud and consequent nonutilization of the system by the target population.




16

Even though different colored notes are widely used by
foreign governments, this technique would be useful only to
those who have some vision. There would be no advantage to
the blind.
. F.

Findings.

IV-1 A potentially effective method of providing currency
denomination information to the sight-impaired is to develop
hand-held, elec-tronic currency readers.
IV-2 Based upon limited information, it would appear that
the most broadly useful currency design change would be to
produce Federal Reserve notes in a different size for each
denomination. However, the effects of such a change or broad
and diverse segments of the population would be monumental.
IV-3 Costs for making currency design changes range from
$640,000 to $6,670,000 per year in addition to initial costs.
Depending upon the design, as many as 150 additional FullTime (personnel) Equivalents would be required by BEP to
produce modified currency.
IV-4 Changes to currency design and issuance of new currency
will have a significant impact on the public and private
sectors, especially on currency handling and processing
equipment such as change machines.
G.

Recommendation.

Pursue the development of and seek funding for a handheld electronic reader to denominate currency.




17

V.

SUMMARY

Features which are selected for incorporation in
currency to assist the jsight handicapped should be of utility to the widest segment of the population possible, have
minimal impact on Bureau of Engraving and Printing production and public circulation, and be cost-effective. The
BEP analysis indicates that there are a number of potentially useful design features which will assist various
groups of the sight impaired• These include incorporation
of visual cues for the partly sighted and tactile mechanisms for the blind. The potential also exists for developing low cost electronic units which will "read" the
denomination of currency through the recognition of already
existing intaglio designs. These devices will produce
audible signals and would therefore be useful to almost all
of the visually impaired. The only currency design feature
which is generally as useful to the entire target population as an electronic reader is currency which is sized by
denomination.
There are several considerations which indicate that
caution should be used in recommending any changes to the
design of currency. The cost of the modifications which the
Bureau reviewed range from $640,000 to $6,670,000 per year,
in addition to one-time implementation costs of up to
$25,630,000. These expenditures, however, represent only a
portion of the true cost. The currency handling system
comprises many segments, including retailers, banks, and private citizens. The industrial sector is also involved in
currency changes as a result of capital expenditure and technological research to develop and manufacture cash registers,
coin changers, automated teller machines, etc. These are
also policy implecations related to a flnewlf currency.
Currency is a tangible representation of the strength of
Governmental institutions and the U. S. economy. Major
changes or logistical problems associated with the distribution of bank notes may, at the worst, lead to some loss of
public confidence or even temporary hoarding.
Applicability of currency design modifications to the
sight impaired population is also a complex question.
Experience of the European nations which produce bank notes
with features specifically included to assist the blind is
rather limited. Tactile mechanisms such as braille-like




18

symbols meet the requirements of only a portion of the
target group and are limited in terms of note durability.
Colors would assist the partially sighted but not the
blind* Electronic currency readers are now available but a
commercial, low cost, easily portable version has not yet
been developed.




19

Figure 1.
An Outline of Mechanisms for the Denomination of Currency
by the Blind or Visually Impaired*
1.

Visual
A. Bright clear colors of different hues
(1) Intaglio inks
(2) Offset background tints
(3) Substrate
B. Large, distinct, simple (sanserif) numerals for
counters

II. Tactile
A.

Substrate (paper) modifications
(1) Different sizes (dimensions)
(2) Notched edges, clipped corners, or perforations
(3) Embossed braille or braille-like symbols

B.

Image modifications

(1) Intaglio-printed braille-like symbols
(2) Hot-melt (or similar) applied braille-like symbols
III. Aural (Electronic)
A.

Image recognition of existing designs

B.

Instrumental recognition of different colors

C.

Recognition of printed bar codes or grids, or coded
perforations

D.

Recognition of thread(s) of specific composition,
shape and/or location embedded in substrate




Figure 2

Analysis of Proposed Changes to U. S. Currency en Bureau Operations

Increases in
Manjfacturdng
Increase in Cost]jet*-ujjusatu
Annual Costs
Notes

Aid
Visually
Bqalred

Aid
Blind

1. Ifee of intaglio iri<s
indifferent ookrs

Yes

Ifo

$ 640,000 23
1,280,000

2. Intaglio inks remain
inchangsd, offset
tints would be
utilized

Yes

Ifo

1
2,200,000 23 3, l6O,OOO 23
12,000,000
9,327,000

3* Changs in siae of note
fcy denendnatien

Yes

Yes

25,630,000

6,670,000

1.33

150

36,000

4. Notches cr clipped 3

Yes

Yes

2,600,000

1 ,l«X),000

.28

29

100

ScnEwhat

Sanewhat 8,100,000

3,050,000

.61

100

148,000

Opbicn

Increase
In Initial
Cost

$ .13 - 3 0 23
.69 -1.86 23

Increase
in FES 13

Increase in
Space
(square Feet)

16

16-72 23

12,000

OCTTErS

5. tfee of braille or
braille-like symbols

1J FIE = Equivalent to FuLL-time Ehployee
2] The rangs of estimates represents the oosts associated with, inocrporation of various levels of counterfeit deterrence features
througi note eolcratien in oenjunctien vdth denendnatien infomaticn. The lower estimate is for currency for the sigit impaired
only.
33 An estimate of $.15/1,000 notes the first year of the program and $.02/1.000 notes each year there after was developed ty BEP
in I960, fcased upon extrapolations of technology available at the time. The cost of $.28/1000 is based upon current, validated
information.






APPENDIX 1

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth. X Ht. Aspect Area
Denomination (date)
(mm)
Ratio (cm2)

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

Algeria: dinar (DA)
1 0 < 1964
50 I 1964)
100 1[1964)

182 X 93
206 X 106
220 X 112

1.96
1.94
1.96

169
218
246

pale rose, violet
pale orange, yellow
pale blue, orange

no intaglio
no intaglio
obverse only

Argentina: peso ($)
1
5
10
50
100
500
1,000
5,000
10,000
50,000
100,000
500,000
1,000,000

155
155
155
155
155
155
155
155
155
155
155
155
155

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

75
75
75
75
75
75
75
75
75
75
75
75
75

2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07

116
116
116
116
116
116
116
116
116
116
116
116
116

bright brownish-orange
medium greenish-blue
medium purple
grayish brown
medium burgundy
medium yellow-green
golden brown
bright clear blue
bright orange
dull brownish-violet
black
brown, green
dark blue, rose

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; overall
design similar, all denominations; counter design
and placement similar: $1,
5, 10, 50, 100, 500, and
1,000; counter design and
placement similar: $5,000,
10,000, and 50,000;
distinctive counters:
$100,000, 500,000, and
1,000,000

Australia: dollar ($)
1 (1973)
2 (1973)
5 (1973)
10 (1973)
20 (1973)
50 (1973)

140
146
150
154
160
165

X
X
X
X
X
X

70
73
75
77
80
83

2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
1.99

98
107
112
119
128
137

medium brown, orange
clear green
purple, rose
clear turquoise
bright orange
medium yellow, green

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; intaglio
counters of upper left
obverse (ULO) and lower
right reverse (LRR) are
quite distinct

Austria: schilling (S)
20 (1967)
50 (1970)
100 (1969)
500 (1965)
1,000 (1966)

132
140
150
154
159

X
X
X
X
X

65
70
75
80
84

2.03
2.00
2.00
1.92
1.89

86
98
112
123
134

Colors fairly dull, muted:
medium brown
obverse only
violet
obverse only
medium olive
obverse and reverse
rose-brown
obverse and reverse
medium blue-green
obverse and reverse




Braille-like
Symbols

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth. X Ht. Aspect Area
Ratio (cm?)
(mm)
Denomination (date)
Bahamas: dollar ($)
h (1968)
1 (1968)
3 (1968)
5 1968)
10 (1968)
20 (1968)
50 (1968)
100 (1968)

156
156
156
156
156
156
156
156

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

67
67
67
67
67
67
67
67

2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33

105
105
105
105
105
105
105
105

Barbados: dollar ($)
1
2
5
10
20
100

150
150
150
150
150
150

X
X
X
X
X
X

65
65
65
65
65
65

2.31
2.31
2.31
2.31
2.31
2.31

98
98
98
98
98
98

Belgium: franc/frank (F)
100 (1978)
500 (1979)
1,000 (1980)
5,000 (1982)
Brazil: cruziero (Cr$)
100
200
500
1,000 (1978)
5,000
Burma: kyat
1
5
10
25
50




inn

K)
1973)
1973)
.1973)
(1972)
(1979)
(1976)

1.84 106
(specimen not available)
(specimen not available)
160 X 76
2.11 122
140 X 76

154
154
154
154
154

X
X
X
X
X

125
135
145
155
165
175

X
X
X
X
X
X

74
74
74
74
74
60
70
80
90
100
110

2.08
2.08
2.08
2.08
2.08
2.08
1.93
1.81
1.72
1.65
1.59

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

medium brownish-violet
bright green bright red
bright orange
bluish-gray
medium brown
orange-brown
bright clear blue

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
almost identical, all
denominations

red
bright blue
medium green
medium brown
violet
blue-gray

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
almost identical, all
denominations

medium burgundy

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; distinct
counters

medium bluish-green

114
114
114
114
114

violet, burgundy
blue-green, dull violet
dark blue, violet-brown
olive, rich brown
dk. brownish-violet, brown

75
94
116
140
165
192

Colors fairly muted:
blue-green, olive
blue-violet
red-violet
orange-brown
brown, violet, green
blue-green

Braille-like
Symbols

LRO:
• • • •

o
obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
similar, all denominations:
rotational symmetry of all
design elements
obverse and reverse, all
denominations; distinct
counters

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth. X Ht. Aspect Area
Ratio (cm2)
Denomination (date)
(mm)

Overall Color(s):

Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:

Obverse, Reverse

Braille-like
Symbols

Canada: dollar ($)
1
2
5
10
20
50
100

(1973)
(1974)
(1979)
(1971)
(1979)
(1975)
(1975)

154
154
154
154
154
154
154

70
70
70
70
70
70
70

2.20
2.20
2.20
2.20
2.20
2.20
2.20

108
108
108
108
108
108
108

blue-green, black
brownish-red
clear blue
clear violet
olive
bright orange-red
medium brown

Cayman Islands: dollar ($)
1 (1971)
156 X 66
5 (1971)
156 X 66
10 (1971)
156 X 66
25 (1971)
156 X 66

2.36
2.36
2.36
2.36

103
103
103
103

Colors
medium
medium
medium
medium

Ceylon (Sri
5
10
20
50
100
500
1,000

Lanka): rupee (R)
117
(1982)
127
(1982)
136
(1982)
146
1982)
156
(1982)
165
(1981)
175
(1981)

X
X
X
X
X
X
X

63
66
70
73
76
60
83

1.86
1.92
1.94
2.00
2.05
2.06
2.11

74
84
95
107
117
132
145

medium orange-pink
olive
purple
medium blue
bright orange
violet-brown
medium green

Chile: peso
5
10
50
100
500
1,000
5,000

(1975)
(1975)
(1975)
(1976)
(1977)
(1978)
(1981)

145
145
145
145
145
145
145

X
X
X
X
X
X
X

70
70
70
70
70
70
70

2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07
2.07

102
102
102
102
102
102
102




X
X
X
X
X
X
X

quite distinct:
blue
green
red
brown

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
very similar, especially
$1, 2, and 20

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
almost identical, all
denominations
R0 (vertical)

Colors clear, soft:
green
orange-red
clear blue
clear violet

soft rose-brown

clear blue-green
orange-red

no intaglio
obverse only
obverse only
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse
no intaglio
no intaglio
obverse only
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse

H
BSX3 Bfia

n in mm

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency Cabbr.) Lgth. X Ht. Aspect Area
Denomination (date)

Ratio

(mm)

(cm2)

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

Costa Rica: colon (C)
5
10
20
50
100
500
1,000

156
156
156
156
156
156
156

X
X
X
X
X
X
X

67
67
67
67
67
67
67

2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33

105
105
105
105
105
105
105

medium green
medium blue
medium brown
olive
gray-black
violet
brick-red

Cyprus: pound (&)/mils
250 mils (1966)
500 mils (1966)
81 (1966)
&5 (1966)

126
141
150
166

X
X
X
X

73
83
89
96

1.73
1.70
1.69
1.73

92
117
134
159

Colors distinct:
dark blue
medium green
medium brown
bright clear blue

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

Denmark: krone (Kr)
20 (1972)
50 (1972)
100 (1972)
500 (1972)
1,000 (1972)

125
140
150
164
176

X
X
X
X
X

72
72
78
85
93

1.74
1.94
1.92
1.93
1.89

90
101
117
139
164

Colors very muted:
soft brown, gray
soft greenish-blue
soft rose, gray
soft green
soft brown, gray

Central
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

England (UK): pound (&)
5
10
20
50

141
152
161
169

X
X
X
X

78
85
90
95

1.81
1.79
1.79
1.78

110
129
145
161

dark blackish-blue
medium brown
violet
olive-brown

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
very similar, all
denominations

Fiji: dollar ($)
1
2
5
10
20

156
156
156
156
156

X
X
X
X
X

medium brown
clear green
brownish-orange
violet
clear blue

Designs almost identical;
no intaglio
obverse only
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse




67
67
67
67
67

2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33

105
105
105
105
105

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
fairly similar, all
denominations

counters (0);
only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

Braille-like
Symbols

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired

Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth. X Ht. Aspect Area
(mm)
Ratio (cm2)
Denomination (date)
Finland: markka (M)
142 X 69
1 1963)
5 1963 Litt. B) 142 X 69
142 X 69
10 1980)
142 X 69
50 1977)
142 X 69
100 (1976)
142 X 69
500 (1975)

2.06
2.06
2.06
2.06
2.06
2.06

98
98
98
98
98
98

France: franc (F)
10 (1972)
20 (1980)
50 (1976)
100 (1978)
200 (1981)
500 (1968)

76
75
80
85
92
97

1.86
1.87
1.88
1.88
1.88
1.87

deutsche mark (DM)
120 X 60
(1960)
130 X 65
(1960)
140 X 70
(I960)
150 X 75
(1970)
160 X 80
(1960)
(1960)
170 X 85
180 X 90
(I960)

W. Germany:
5
10
20
50
100
500
1 ,000

141
140
150
160
173
181

X
X
X
X
X
X

Overall Color(s):

Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

yellowish-brown
bright clear blue
green, orange
brown, violet
violet, light blue
brownish blue

no intaglio
obverse only
obverse only
obverse only
obverse only
obverse and reverse

107
105
120
136
159
176

strong orange-brown
medium violet, yellow
medium blue-black
medium brown
yel1ow-brown, blue-green
orange-tan, black

no Intaglio
no Intaglio
obverse only
obverse only
obverse only
obverse only

2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00

72
84
98
112
128
144
162

olive
blue-violet
gray-green
medium brown
blue-black
reddish-brown
olive-brown

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

Greece: drachma (Dr)
50 1978)
100 1978)
500 1968)
1 ,000 (1970)

143
158
158
158

X 64
X 67
X 74
X 81

2.23
2.36
2.14
1.95

92
106
117
128

Colors soft but distinct:
clear medium blue
brick red, orange
olive
medium brown

obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

Guyana: dollar ($)
1
5
10
20

155
155
155
155

X
X
X
X

65
65
65
65

2.38
2.38
2.38
2.38

101
101
101
101

medium red
medium green
medium brown
violet-black

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
almost Identical, all
denominations




only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

Braille-like
Symbols

• • • (LLO)
|S (LLO)

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth. X Ht. Aspect Area
Ratio (cm2)
(mm)
Denomination (date)
Hungary: forint (F)
20 (1975)
50 (1975)
100 (1975)
500 (1975)

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

73
73
73
81

2.27
2.27
2.27
2.17

121
121
121
143

Colors dull, muted:
dark blue
medium brown
brownish-purple
violet

148
156
164
172
180

X
X
X
X
X

78
82
86
90
94

1.90
1.90
1.91
1.91
1.91

115
128
141
155
169

olive
medium brown, peach
violet, pink
clear medium blue
reddish-brown

Israel: pound (18)
5 (1973)
10 1973)
50 1973)
100 (1973)
500 (1973)

128
135
141
147
153

X
X
X
X
X

76
76
76
76
76

1.68
1.78
1.86
1.93
2.01

97
103
107
112
116

Distinct color combination;>:
obverse and reverse, all
dark brown on peach
denominations
dark violet on lilac
dark green on light green
dark blue on light blue
black on light yellow

Israel: sheqel (IS)
5 (1978)
100 (1979)
500 (1982)

141 X 76
159 X 76
138 X 76

1.86
2.09
1.82

107
121
105

dark green on light green
medium orange-brown
dark red

Italy: lira
1,000
2,000
10,000
20,000
50,000
100,000

112
132
133
161
148
156

1.84
2.03
1.90
2.04
2.11
2.23

68
86
93
127
104
109

Colors brown, dull,indistinct:
no intaglio
pale rose-brown, green
obverse only
medium brown, peach
obverse and reverse
blue-green, black
medium brown
obverse and reverse
brownish-red, blue, green obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse
brownish-red, blue

166
166
166
176

X
X
X
X

Ireland: pound (&)
1 1977)
5 1976)
10 1978)
20 (1980)
50 (1982)

(L)
(1982)
(1973)
(1976)
(1974)
(1977)
(1978)




X
X
X
X
X
X

61
65
70
79
70
70

obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

Distinct counters (0);
obverse only
obverse and reverse
obverse and reverse
obverse ana reverse
obverse and reverse

Braille-like
Symbols

only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

Distinctive counters;
obverse and reverse, all
denominations

LLO:
• # •
# #
•

•
:=
Pi

(LLO)
(LLO)
(MRO)

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth. x Ht. Aspect Area
Denomination (date)
(mm)
Ratio (cm2)

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

Jamaica: dollar ($)
1 (1960
2 (I960)
5 (1960)
10 (1978)
20 (1978)

144
147
150
152
156

x
x
x
x
x

64
68
70
72
76

2.25
2.16
2.14
2.11
2.05

92
100
105
109
119

violet, tan
dark green, tan
medium brown, tan
clear violet-blue
orange-red, brown, purple

Japan: yen (Y)
500
1,000
5,000
10,000

159
164
169
174

x
x
x
x

72
76
80
84

2.21
2.16
2.11
2.07

114
125
135
146

Colors very muted, similar:•
dark blue, tan
obverse and reverset all
olive, brown, tan
denominations
blue-green, black, tan
green, brown, tan

Jordan: dinar (JD)
h (1975)
1 (1975)
5 (1975)
10 (1975)

136
144
152
160

x
x
x
x

68
72
76
80

2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00

92
104
116
128

medium brown, peach
medium green, tan
dark red, peach
blue-violet, tan

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

Korea (Seoul): won (W)
500 (1973)
1,000 (1975)
5,000 (1977)
10,000 (1979)

159
163
167
171

x
x
x
x

69
73
77
81

2.30
2.23
2.17
2.11

110
119
129
139

soft
soft
soft
soft

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

142
152
162
172
180

x
x
x
x
x

71
76
81
86
91

2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
1.98

101
116
131
148
164

Green intaglio, all denominations:
medium green, pink
obverse and reverse, all
medium green, peach
denominations
medium green
medium green, sky blue
medium green, pink

franc/frang (F)
(1966)
130 x 70
136 x 73
(1972)
142 x 76
(1970)

1.86
1.86
1.87

91
99
108

dark blue
dark brownish-black
medium red

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

1.87

108

medium red

obverse and reverse

Libya: dinar (D)

h
h

1
5
10

Luxembourg:
20
50
100

green, blue
purple, violet
brown, orange
olive

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

New series:
100 (1980)




142 x 76

Braille-like
Symbols

LRO:
• • • •

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth. X Ht . Aspect Area
Ratio (cm?;
(mm)
Denomination (date)

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

Malta: pound (8M)
1 (1967)
5 (1967)
10 (1967)

137 X 69
145 X 75
152 X 80

1.99
1.93
1.90

95
109
122

Overall effect similar:
med. brown, gray, peach
violet, gray, pink
gray, purple-red, peach

Mexico: peso ($)
20 (1972)
50 (1973)
100 (1974)
500 (1979)
1,000 (1978)
5,000 (1980)
10,000 (1981)

155
155
155
155
155
155
155

X
X
X
X
X
X
X

66
66
66
66
66
66
66

2.35
2.35
2.35
2.35
2.35
2.35
2.35

102
102
102
102
102
102
102

medium red
bright medium blue
bright violet
olive, brown
brown on peach
blue and red on sky blue
dark blue on chartreuse

Netherlands: gulden (G)
5 (1973)
10 (1968)
25 (1971)
50 (1982)
100 (1977)
1,000 (1972)

136
142
148
148
154
160

X
X
X
X
X
X

76
76
76
76
76
76

1.79
1.87
1.95
1.95
2.03
2.11

103
108
112
112
117
122

New Zealand: dollar ($)
1
2
5
10
20
100

140
145
150
155
160
160

X
X
X
X
X
X

70
72.5
75
77.5
80
80

2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00

98
105
112
120
128
128




Braille-like
Symbols

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

Colors distinct:
Distinct counters (0);
obverse only
bright, clear green
obverse only
bright, clear blue
obverse only
clear red
obverse and reverse
bright orange and yellow
obverse and reverse
medium brown
obverse and reverse
medium bluish-green
Colors bright, clear, distinct:
brown
obverse and reverse, all
clear violet
denominations; designs
bright orange
almost identical, all
clear blue
denominations
medium green
bright crimson

LLO:

V

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth. X Ht. Aspect Area
Denomination (date)
(mm)
Ratio (cm?)

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

Nicaragua: cordoba (C$)
1 (1968)
2 (1972)
5 (1972)
10 (1979)
20 (1979)
50 (1979)
100 (1979)
500 (1979)
1,000 (1979)

156
156
156
156
156
156
156
156
156

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

67
67
67
67
67
67
67
67
67

2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33
2.33

105
105
105
105
105
105
105
105
105

medium blue
olive
medium green
red
ochre
violet
blackish-brown
olive
medium blue

obverse and
obverse and
obverse and
no intaglio
no intaglio
no intaglio
no intaglio
obverse and
obverse and

Nigeria: pound (S)/shilling
5 s (1965)
10 s (1965)
SI (1965)
S5 (1965)

(s)
127
138
152
157

X
X
X
X

73
77
84
90

1.74
1.79
1.81
1.74

93
106
128
141

reddish-violet
medium green
medium red
dark blue

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
yery similar, all
denominations

Norway: krone (Kr)
10 (1974)
50 (1974)
100 1963)
500 (1978)
1,000 (1975)
New series:
100 (1977)

125
145
145
170
170

X
X
X
X
X

65
73
78
90
90

1.92
1.99
1.86
1.89
1.89

81
106
113
153
153

medium blue
medium green
burgundy
yellowish-green
reddish-brown, violet

obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

144 X 78

1.85

112

burgundy on peach

obverse only; dominant
counter

74
86
98
113
120
128
137

Colors distinct:
ochre
blue
green
red
purple
purplish-brown
blackish-blue

obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

Oman: rial (R)/baisa
100 baisa

R h

R h
R 1
R 5

RIO

R20




120
128
136
145
154
164
175

X
X
X
X
X
X
X

62
67
72
78
78
78
78

1.94
1.91
1.89
1.86
1.97
2.10
2.24

reverse
reverse
reverse

reverse
reverse

only
only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

Braille-like
Symbols

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr.) Lgth., X Ht. Aspect Area
(mm)
Denomination (date)
Ratio (en*)
Papua New Guinea: kina
2
5
10
20
Portugal: escudo ($)
20 (1978)
50 1968)
100 (1980)
500 (1979)
1,000 (1968)
5,000 (1980)

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse
Similar
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

Braille-like
Symbols

designs; distinct counters;
only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

140
145
150
150

X
X
X
X

70
72.5
75
75

2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00

98
105
112
112

medium green
purple
blue
orange-brown

134
142
150
156
164
170

X
X
X
X
X
X

66
70
74
78
82
75

2.03
2.03
2.03
2.00
2.00
2.27

88
99
111
122
134
128

medium green
medium brown
clear blue
reddish-brown
blue-green
olive, brown

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

Qatar: riyal
1 (1982)
5 (1982)
10 (1982)
50 (1982)
100 (1982)
500 (1982)

134
140
146
152
158
163

X
X
X
X
X
X

66
67
69
71
72
74

2.03
2.09
2.12
2.14
2.19
2.20

88
94
101
108
114
121

Colors soft, muted:
golden brown, med. brown
burgundy, violet
yellow, green
blue, blue-black
olive, brown
blue-green, violet

Designs
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

very similar;
only
only
only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

Russia (USSR): rouble (R)
1 1961)
3 (1961)
5 (1961)
10 (1961)
25 (1961)
50 (1961)
100 (1961)

105
114
114
122
122
140
140

X
X
X
X
X
X
X

53
57
57
61
61
70
70

1.98
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00

56
65
65
74
74
98
98

medium brown
medium green
blue
brick red
violet
medium green
medium brown

obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

only
only
only
only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

Solomon Islands: dollar ($)
2 (1977)
140 X 70
5 (1977)
145 X 75
10 (1977)
150 X 80

2.00
1.93
1.88

98
109
120

Colors distinct:
medium green
medium blue
violet-red

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs nearly
identical, all denominations




Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency (abbr. ) Lgth., X Ht. Aspect Area
Denomination (date)
(mm)
Ratio (cm2)
Sweden: krona (Kr)
5 (1965)
10 (1963)
50 1965)
100 (1965)
1,000 (1976)

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse
Distinct counters (0);
obverse only
obverse only
obverse only
obverse only
obverse and reverse

68
68
82
82
82

1.62
1.76
1.59
1.71
2.20

Switzerland: frank/franc (F)
10 (1979)
137 X 66
20 (1979)
148 X 70
50 (1978)
159 X 74
100 (1976)
170 X 78
500 (1977)
181 X 82
1,000 (1978)
192 X 86

2.08
2.11
2.15
2.18
2.21
2.23

118
133
165

Colors distinct:
medium brownish-red
medium greenish-blue
medium green
dark violet-blue
medium brown
violet

1.93
1.91
69
1.92
72
1.92
80
82.5 1.94

88
91
99
123
132

violet
soft blackish-brown
medium green
burgundy on peach
violet on lavender

obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

103
103
103
103
103

Colors distinct:
clear red
clear green
black
violet
bright clear blue

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
almost identical, all
denominations

Thailand: baht (B)
5 (1969)
10 (1980)
20 (1981)
100 1978)
500 (1975)

110
120
130
140
180

130
132
138
154
160

X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X

67.5

Trinidad and Tobago: dollar ($)
1 (1964)
156 X 66
5 (1964)
156 X 66
10 (1964)
156 X 66
20 (1964)
156 X 66
100 (1964)
156 X 66




2.36
2.36
2.36
2.36
2.36

75

82
107

115
148
90
104
148

violet on yello.w
green on pale blue
medium blue on yellow
brownish-red on pale blue
med. brown on violet-white

Braille-like
Symbols

obverse and reverse, all
denominations

ULO:
•
••
•• •
11 1 1

111
1 1
and reverse
only
only
and reverse
and reverse

Denomination of Currency by the Blind or Visually Impaired
Dimensions
Country: currency*(abbr.)
Denomination (date)

Lgth. x Ht. Aspect Area
(mm)
Ratio (cm2i

Turkey: turk l i r a (TL)

10
20
50
100
500
1,000
5,000

1970)
1970)
1970)
1970)
1970)
1970)
(1970)
(1970)

135 X 60
121 X 55
142 X 65
160 X 72.5
168 X 77
170 X 80
170 X 82.5
140 X 72

United States: dollar ($)
1
156 X 66
2
156 X 66
5
156 X 66
10
156 X 66
20
156 X 66
50
156 X 66
100
156 X 66

2.25
2.20
2.18
2.21
2.18
2.12
2.01
1.94

81
67
92
116
129
136
140
101

2.36
2.36
2.36
2.36
2.36
2.36
2.36

103
103
103
103
103
103
103

Overall Color(s):
Saturation, Hue(s)
Colors muted:
violet, tan
olive
reddish-brown
gray
grayish green
blue-green
v1olet-blue« burgundy
violet-brown
black obverse, green
reverse, all
denominations

Intaglio Printing:
Obverse, Reverse

obverse only
no intaglio
obverse only

obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse
obverse

reverse
reverse
reverse
reverse
reverse

obverse and reverse, all
denominations; designs
very similar, all
denominations

Viet Nam (Saigon): dong (D)
50 (1972)
100 (1972)
200 (1972)
500 (1972)
1,000 (1972)

142 X
146 X
146 X
152 X
152 X

71
73
73
76
76

2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00
2.00

101
107
107
116
116

Designs
blue-green, light blue
obverse
medium green, light green obverse
purplish-red, greenish-tan obverse
orange, tan
obverse
medium blue, tan
obverse

Yemen: Hal (R)
1 (1973)
5 (1973)
10 (1973)
20 1973)
50 (1973)

120 X
130 X
135 X
145 X
150 X

65
68
71
73
75

1.85
1.91
1.90
1.99
2.00

78
88
96
106
112

green
red
blue
violet
olive-brown




and
and
and
and
and

very similar;
only
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse
and reverse

obverse only, all
denominations

Braille-like
Symbols




APPENDIX 2

D£ NEDERLANDSCHE BANK
POSTBUS 98

-

1OOO AB

N.V.

Amsterdam, March 31, 1983.

AMSTERDAM

ONDCRDIRECTEUR
MM. J. R. STEINHAUSER

v U"

Mr. Robert J. Leuver
Director
Bureau of Engraving and Printing
U.S. Department of the Treasury
14th & C Streets, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20228
Dear Mr. Leuver,
Back at my desk from my visit to the United States, I want to
thank you very much indeed for your hospitality on March 24,
1983, at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. I found the
tour through the printing works very interesting and I was
very much impressed by the laboratorium.
I enclose herewith a note we sent to the Bank of Canada on
the intaglio marks for the blind as I promised. I also
enclose a note of Dr. Koeze on the life-length of banknotes.
An other trial is still on its way concerning the life-length
of banknotes with regard to the machine direction in the
papermill. I spoke about these trials with Mr. Seidel and Mr.
Graminski. As soon as the report on the trial is there, I
will send it to them.
Would you please be so kind as to pass my gratitude to
Mr. Seidel, Mr. Graminski and Mr. Heygster for the time they
spent on me during my visit.
Yours sincerely,

Enclosures



Dii tMEDERLANDSCHE B A N K N . V .
POGTPUS DO

-

1OOO AB

Amsterdam, May 25, 1981.

AMSTERDAM

:•".:•. "J.J. Sucrmondt

I-'.r. I.G. Freeth
Bank of Canada
Ottawa K1A 0G9
Canada

Dear Mr. Freeth,
Thank you very much for your letter of April 24, 198l,
on identification of banknotes for the blind. As you know, we
have used tactile symbols since the issue of our present f 10,banknote in January 1971* The experience we have gained since then
is mixed. On the one hand, it is recognised in broad circles that
tactile symbols may play a useful role for visually handicapped
people. On the other hand, we feel that the present, rather gross
form of our symbols is suboptimal. Smaller symbols might be recognized easier.
Generally, one has to reckon with two categories of visually handicapped people. The first category includes persons born
blind or become blind in the first years of their life. These
people have an excellent feeling and have the ability even to feel
and read the text and nummerals in intaglio on the front of our
banknotes* For them special tactile symbols are not necessary.
In our latest / 100,- banknote issued since March 16, 1981 we have
improved upon the tactility of the text using letters without
serifs and leaving out cadre lines etc. which hinder feeling.
The letters are placed simply against a background in offset.
The second category includes persons become blind later
in their life, e.g. after a traffic incident. These people may be
compared with others blindfolded. Their feeling is not exceptionally
good, generally. For them special tactile symbols would be of a
great help because they are not able to feel and read the text.
It is this category at whom we aim our efforts.




—

•

•—

POSTBUS OB

-

1OOO AB

'•- • -•-•

Amsterdam, Nay

AMSTERDAM

Mr. I.G. Freeth
Canada
- 2 Pure braille numbers are not effective, because only a
small proportion of the visually handicapped are able to read
braille. In aur country only about 4000 people out of 90.000
visually handicapped are familiar with braille. This is why we
have chosen for a simplified system using the principle of braille.
As you remark, pure braille dots have a height greater than the
embossing which it is possible to achieve in intaglio. In the
present form of our symbols we have compensated the lesser height
by the greater-width of the dots. On afterthought, this appears
a fallacy. A simple experiment is sufficient to show this as
follows.
If a sheet of normal writing paper (thickness about 0,1
mm comparable to the embossing on our banknotes) is laid flat on
the smooth surface of a table, it is very well possible for people
like you and me to feel the edges of the sheet. However, the even
surface of the sheet is not recognizable. As shown above, people
without visual handicap but blindfolded are representative of the
category of handicapped people we aim at. So the conclusion is
that it is not the actual height or the top of the intaglio point
that is felt, but the discontinuity due to the height difference.
Tactile symbols are optimal if they have the maximal height which
can be achieved and the minimal width necessary for that height.
The symbols should be spaced such that they can be felt one by one
Typical dimensions of special tactile symbols are:
height
: 100 ^m
width
:
1 mm
interspace:
5 mm
Using this principle the tactile symbols of Switzerland, Belgium
and other countries are better than ours.




DE NEDERLANDSCHE BANK N.V.
PO9TBUS OB

-

1OOO AB

Amsterdam, May 25, 1981
Mr. I.G. Freeth
Canada

AMSTERDAM

- 3 -

All countries have devised their symbols according to
some sequential system, e.g. an increasing number of dots or
lines. Obviously, it is difficult to insert a new denomination
into the sequence. Recently, we have encountered this problem
when we decided to design a f 50,- banknote which does not exist
at present. It is more practical "to devise symbols using (simplified) numerals or (simplified) text. We are working along this
line but our investigations have not yet come to a conclusion.
Finally, we "have no information on how long the tactile
feel remains useful in the circulation.
.We hope that the information above is of any help to you.
Taking this opportunity I should mention that Janus Ritter has
retired in January and that Mr. J.R. Steinhauser has taken over his
responsibilities. Peter Koeze and Jaap Brugman asked me to send
you the IT? personal regards.




Yours sincerely,
t^.DE NEDERLANDSCHE BANK N.V.

Director

CAISSE D'EPARGNE DE L'ETAT

6

DU GRAND-DUCH* DE LUXEMBOURG
BANQUEDE L'ETAT

* * ^ , June 7th, 1983
DIRECTION

&%

CB/JJ




Mr. Robert J. LEUVER
Director
Department of the Treasury
Bureau of Engraving and Printing
W a s h i n g t o n , D.C. 20228
(U.S.A.)

Concern: Incorporated design elements for blind.
Dear Mr. Leuver,
Referring to your l e t t e r of April 21st, 1983, I want to
inform you that, as Luxembourg is linked to Belgium by an agreement
on monetary association, belgian notes are legal tender and form
therefore the greater part of luxemburgish circulation.
Within the framework of this agreement, Luxembourg keeps i t s
sovereign right to issue own notes, but has accepted limits as far
as the amount and the denomination are concerned.
As Luxembourg has no own engraving and printing center, our
experience in the f i e l d of incorporated design elements for blind
or visually impaired is very limited.
Nevertheless, I think that intaglio printed design elements
have a l e g i b i l i t y and an u t i l i t y to aid the blind in determining the
denomination.
Unfortunately, the durability is very limited because these
marks are only perceptible as long as the notes are in new or rather
good conditions.
Sincerely yours,

Brussels, 13th July, 1983.

DIRECTION

Dear Mr Leuver,
Your letter dated April 21st, 1983 concerning the incorporation in
banknotes of means by which the visually impaired might recognize
them, only reached me recently. I heard that in the meantime you
met Mr J. Van Droogenbroeck in Brussels and talked about this
subject.
So, I can only confirm our general impression about the use of
intaglio printed signs : although the utility to the blind populatic
of the elements as implemented in our notes is questionable, and the
their durability is not what one should hope and the printing of th:
deep intaglio engraving causes more frequent replacements of the
packing material on our intaglio presses, we still see no obvious
reason not to print those signs.
Furthermore, the other existing ways of enabling people to distingui
between different denominations of banknotes other than by sight
(significantly different sizes, braille numbers or raised dot codes,
clipped corners a.s.o) also have their specific drawbacks.
We hope that in the future better printed intaglio signs wil fulfill
this particular task more satisfactorily.
If you need more technical details on this matter, please do not
hesitate to get in touch with Mr J. Van Droogenbroeck.
kind regards^/
/ /

Mr Robert J.Leuven, Director
Department of the Treasury
Bureau of Engraving & Printing
WASHINGTON, B.C. 20228 (U.S.A.)




7N 1 V » p 3 1
BANK

OF ISRAEL
J"1-

CURRENCY DEPARTMENT
Jerusalem, July 4,

19B3

Dr. Edmond L. Graminsky, Chief
Office of Research and Technical Services
;
Department of the Treasury
\mBureau of Engraving and Printing
Washington, D.C. 20228
U. S. A.

Dear Dr. Graminsky,
Re: Mr. R.J. Leuver's letter dated April 21, 1983
regarding design elements for the blind
In reference to Mr. R.J. Leuver's letter dated April 21, 1983,
(which was received by us only on 14th inst.)we wish to inform you that
we have not undertaken a special probe relating to the legibility and
utility to the blind of the design elements incorporated in our banknotes
for their benefit.
As you may well know, we do not print our banknotes in Israel,
but mostly in Holland. That is why we have originally adopted the
system of the signs for the blind from the Dutch banknotes in coordination
with the Dutch Central Bank. Filled signs were thought at the beginning
to be the best element for sensitive touch but later, thanks to more
investigations carried out by the Dutch and Belgian Central Banks, hollow
geometric shapes were chosen for more recent banknotes as being a better
element for the blind to feel. That is the reason a circle has been
put on our latest banknote (the I.S.500).
From the foregoing, it is obvious that we cannot point out if
there were any detrimental effects in the production of the notes.
Moreover, lacking automatic sorting systems, we are not in a position to
report of any effects in the transport of the notes.
Anyway, no problems were encountered in the passing of the notes through
counting machines.




Yours faithfully,

Aviezer
Assistant Director - Currency Department

EMBASSY OF SWITZERLAND
SCHWEIZERISCHE BOTSCHAFT
AMBASSADE DE SU1SSE

WASHINGTON D C 2000&,
2900 c«ihedni Avenue N.W.
Telephone
^
)

521.2 - PB/mo

n

. j- 1 vJJ

January 21 # 1983

Mr. Raphael Perl
Subcommittee on Housing and
Consumer Interests
717 House Office Building
Annex I
Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Mr. Perl,
TJie Swiss National Bank has informed us as follows
regarding the issue of the Swiss experience with a code
for the blind on Swiss banknotes:
"The problem is currently being studied by most of
the European central banks. However, the Swiss National
Bank (SNB) believes that to date no efficient banknote
markiri9S have been found to benefit all types of blind
people. A good differentiation method for the blind is
still the different size of the individual banknote denominations. Therefore the SNB has encouraged the manufacture
of templets to measure the different denominations.
Following are some remarks concerning the experiences
the SNB has had with the Swiss banknotes:
- The selection of the markings was made by the associations
for the blind at the time new banknotes (competition
1970) were created.
- The selection of the markings presented few difficulties;
the printing of the markings, however, was more problematic. Banknotes are subject to much greater wear and tear
than, for example, books or newspapers in braille.
- After the first few tests, the raised printing that was
introduced at the time by the Netherlands and Israel was
adopted. After a few months of circulation, a poll of the
associations for the blind unfortunately revealed the
inefficiency of the markings as soon as the banknotes lose
their printing crispness.




Further tests were not possible during that period due
to lack of time and problems with design, printing and
security. The creating of banknotes takes many years and
must be prepared on a long-term basis. But we shall
endeavor to find new ways to devise a code for the blind
when we prepare the next series of banknotes.
The associations for the blind request that the markings
be retained and suggest
o that the code be imprinted diagnonally on the front and
back side
c that more space be left between the dots and lines to
facilitate reading
o that thinner paper be used to achieve a greater sensitiveness of the code.
However, the printing method which would assure the thickness and permanence of the markings is yet to be found.
Perforated printing seems tc be out of the question for
technical and security reasons.
The addition of the code for the blind did not result in
any additional costs to us because it formed an integral
part of the copper printing plate when the new banknotes
were niade.
There are about 5,000 blind persons in Switzerland, and
about 20,000 persons with impaired vision. This is
approximately lto, respectively 3'^o of the total population
In spite of this minority, there is a consensus of opinion
that the problem should not be neglected.11
We trust this information will be useful to you.
Should you have any further questions do not hesitate to
write or to call us.

Sincerely yours

Peter Buomberger
Secretary of Embassy

Encl. 1 photocopy




19 2 mm

181 mm
170 m m

159 mm
148 mm
1 37 mm

E

E
E

Blindencode
Code pour les aveugles
Codice per i ciechi

•
• •
• ••

10 Fr.
20 Fr.
50 Fr.
100 Fr.
500 Fr.
1000 Fr.

--^^^



I II I
II I
I I

?-*:^;tr:

c
E

OFr.

00

OFr.

oc

E
E
•

OFr.

OFr.

o

E

CM

LO

o o
in o

OFr.

E

OFr.

L'

2




APPENDIX 3

AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR THE BLIND, INC.

June 1 , 1983

Mr. Maurice M. Schneider
Executive Assistant
Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Department of the Treasury
14th & C Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20228
Dear Mr. Schneider:
Enclosed is the feasibility study on techniques for generating a personal
size paper money identifier to be used by blind and severely visually
impaired persons.
In a period of a few weeks, it is only possible for us to give you a rough
estimate of cost, but we feel that they are probably accurate. If you require an extensive study and evaluation of the two techniques, to further
refine the proposal and to get better information on the comparative advantages of the two techniques, I believe that it would require approximately
three months of effort and $15,000 to get a more definitive evaluation.
Specifications would have to be written and sent to a number of organizations,
I hope this information is what you require and would be happy to give a
presentation to Congress if you request it.
Sincerely yours,
i

Douglas R. Maure, Director
Technological Development Dept,

DRM/bb
enclosed

FIELD OFFICES
Region I
15 West 16m Street. New York New York 10011 (212) 620-2039
Region II
15 West 16th Street. New York. New York 10011 (212) 620-2037
203 North Wabasn Avenue. Chicago. Illinois 60601 (312) 269-0095
15 WEST 16TH STREET NEW YORK N Y
10011
/
TEL (212) 620-2000 Region III
CABLE ADDRESS FOUNDATION NEW YORIC/AN EOUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Region IV
100 Peacntree Street. Atlanta. Georgia 30303 (404) 525-2303
Region V
1111 West Mockingbird Lane. Dallas. Texas 75247 (214) 630-6035
Region VI
760 Market Street. San Francisco. California 94102 (415) 392-4845
Legislative Office — 1660 L Street. N W . Washington 0 . C 20036 (202) 467-5996




A POCKET CURRENCY READER FOR THE BLIND
A feasibility Study*

It is the purpose of this document to outline an approach for a pocket
sized device for reading the denominations of paper currency. The
primary purpose for the consideration of such a device, is an aid for the
blind. It will be understood that the technology may also be applicable
to a wide range of automatic processes where a definition of product or
orientation may be desirable. However, we here limit the discussion to
a currency reader for the blind in the United States.

The basic technology is not new. Readers have been on the market for
sorting currency for about fifteen years. These devices, however, have
been enormously complex and expensive, compared to anything that could
serve the individual blind person. More recently, however, a joint program between the American Foundation for the Blind and ARDAC, a company
serving the note accepter field, has reduced the complexity of the earlier
designs to the point that a new product keyed to the needs of the blind
vendor has now been accepted by the Foundation, and is available through
the Foundation's Consumer Products Department.

In order to establish a reference for further discussion of the device
here proposed, it is appropriate to discuss this device known as the
paper money identifier for the blind.

*T. Lynch, Ohio License E013319




The unit is pictured in Fig. 1. It operates from the normal power line.
It accepts the notes in any geometric approach, and announces the denomination in clearly articulated English. It even tells the operator if the
bill is of a preferred geometry (i.e., upside down). It "knows11 bills from
all denominations from one to twenty dollars. Although the reading of the
notes is a fairly sophisticated process, involving a pattern of forty to
sixty indices, the unit is not particularly effective against sophisticated
counterfeit notes. It will be understood that there is a great deal of
technology involved in such discrimination, and a device claiming effectiveness in this discrimination yery quickly becomes expensive. Early studies
by AFB concluded the marketability for the vendor aid will be severely
limited if the retail unit cost of the device is much more than $600.00,
and, consequently units were set that precluded engineering and development
costs permitting for the rejection of counterfeit notes.

Having described in the above paragraph what might be termed the state of
the art, we now turn our attention to the description of this proposal.
First, if $600.00 is a market problem for the blind vendor, even when
assisted by the Randolph Sheppard Act, it is clear that a personal note
reader must aim at a substantially lower figure if the market is to be
large enough to support the device. It is probable, therefore, that a
financially unassisted development effort of such a device will never happen, and therefore the purpose of this discussion is to provide a background for funding requests.




INCQUCI

I Ul

UIIC

U I I IIU--pflyC

J

A way to make substantial progress in this problem area of unit cost is
to make the decision favoring sophisticated design and extensive tooling.
This means the development of the device will be comparatively expensive,
but the selling cost to the individual user will be moderate. It is impossible to estimate this figure with any degree of accuracy since production cost is sensitive to volume. In large volume (100,000 units) the
cost of $75.00 seems reasonable and could increase to $250.00 with relatively low volume.

We now turn our attention to the problems involved in going from the device of Fig. 1 to the pocket version.

The major difference is that Fig. 1 handles the bill, moving it at a controlled rate of speed through the scanning mechanism. This is an expensive part of the machine, but it solves some tough problems. It cannot be
a feature of a pocket device because of the cost but also because such a
mechanism puts impossible demands upon the power available in a pocket
device. Accordingly, the proposed device hypothicates a design where the
scanning process is manually performed. The preferred embodyment is pictured in Fig. 2. The note is threaded sideways into the machine, and captured by a roller with an inertia brake. The operator, after loading the
bill into the machine, pulls one end (either end), withdrawing the note
and providing a mechanism for the scanning process. The inertia brake
will control to an acceptable degree the regularity of the extraction process. The "reading11 of the note now becomes a simple extrapolation of the
process in the vendor note reader.




M rocKet Lurrency Keaaer tor the blind—page 4

It will be understood that a description of this reading process in detail
will serve no one better than the potential counterfeiter/so we shall not
reveal such details in this description. In fact, the vendor device does
work; it has been approved by the American Foundation for the Blind, and
since the scanning process and the logic are expected to be closely alike
in the two machines, it is not in doubt that the pocket version of the
device will have comparable performance.

The vendor device for the blind announces the denomination of the note in
plain English. This is an expensive feature. It is not yet clear that
the price objective for the pocket version will permit this type of readout. It seems quite possible that a suitable investment in a speech synthesis chip specifically for the blind reader might reduce the per unit
cost to an affordable figure.

Should further study of the cost/performance ratio push the decision to a
non-speech readout, pin-type readouts are available, and an acoustic readout comprising a keyed note or notes can be easily achieved. However, due
to tactual discrimination problems for the elderly blind and blind diabetic
may preclude this as an option.

What we conceive, therefore, is the development of a pocket currency reader
for the blind, similar in concept to the artist's sketch in Fig. 2, derived in its essential operating features from a currently available vendor
note reader for the blind.




uurrenty r^edaer Tor trie onna—page D

A prototype, functional unit could be available in nine months. A marketable device from hard tooling, in eighteen months. The estimated cost for
such a program is $250,000. Depending upon volume, price per unit from
$75.00 to $250.00 seems feasible.

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing has proposed a bar chart to be placed
around the face on the bill. As I understand it, they propose a 12 mil
spacing with 8 mil for a one and 4 mil for a zero. Each bit code would be
utilized permitting error correction. This technique would probably cost
the consumer approximately the same as the techniques described above.
The reason that this seems likely is that the reduction in size of the
computer algorithms in the microprocessor does not materially decrease the
cost of the instrument. The microprocessor costs would possibly be reduced from $10.00 to $9.00. Because of the fine spacing on the bar chart,
it does not seem likely that the optics would be substantially less complex than the existing optical system, and in fact, because of the close
spacing might even be more expensive. Therefore, it seems that the bar
chart approach would cost approximately the same as the approach suggested
by ARDAC.




June 1 , 1983




VENDOR PAPER MONEY IDENTIFIER
FOR THE BLIND
FTniipr 1




£
i ^

s
3




APPENDIX 4

DIMENSIONS - STANDARD AND JUMBO BRAILLE

Standard Braille

'Jumbo' Braille
0.018 - 0.020

Dot height (in)

0.018 - 0.020

Dot diameter (in)

0.050 - 0.065

0.66

Dot spacing, same cell (in)

0.092 + 0.002

0.121

Dot spacing, adjacent cells (in)

0.235 - 0.250

0.378

Dot spacing, adjacent lines (in)




Not less than 0.400

0.500

C-4
BRAILE MARKINGS
Over the years we have printed some experimental currency notes with
various types of raised markings which were examined by blind people,
and we have been in contact with the Netherlands where Braille-marked
currency has actually circulated over a period of time. The results
of both efforts confirm that special markings on currency would not
be of any particular or lasting value to most blind people, due to
the rapid wear of the raised symbols and the fact that the great
preponderance of blind people lack the sensitivity of touch required
to distinguish the markings. The latter situation arises because more
than half of the legally blind persons in the United States are over
the age of 60 and lost their sight at an older age. Even among younger
sight-handicapped people, however, the tactile sensitivity required for
reading Braille varies greatly from person to person and is not a universally acquired skill among the blind.
In a survey, made by us in August 1977, of 22 organizations known to be
concerned with various aspects of blindness, none responded in favor of
special markings on currency to assist the blind. Moreover, the largest
representative organization of blind people -- The National Federation
of the Blind -- has actively opposed any legislation for Braille-type
markings on U.S. currency. Therefore, because of the technical issues
involved and because blind people themselves do not generally express
the view that money handling is a major problem, we are no longer
engaged in efforts to place raised markings on currency notes.
Internationally, at the Third Pacific Rim Conference of Banknote Printers,
held in Ottowa in September 1977, most member nations agreed that Brailletype currency has little real value to the blind and only serves as a
"goodwill" gesture. This had been the finding of those nations who have
experimented with this approach, and it seems highly unlikely at this time
that many more nations will attempt to adapt their currencies in this manner.




NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND
RESOLUTION 71-07
WHEREAS, Congreuman Rarick of Louisiana has introduced in the House of
Representatives of the 92nd Congress H.R. 9102, a bill to provide for papd money of the
United Statei to carry a designation in BrsdDc indicating the denomination; and
WHEREAS, the requirements of this kgklatfve proposal would only serve to strengthen aad
morf firmly catre&ch the too generally accepted stereotype of the blind pcfton is
depmdent for panidpatory functioning upon special gimmicks *nd inconveniencing
to the lighted; a»d
WHEREAS, it h the ICMI and concern of the National Federation of A c Blind that ways
soon would be found and devised to corrupt and alter Braifle designations of paper money
value* by which blind persons would be defrauded and cheated; and
WHEREAS, the overwhelming and always present problem of blind persons is not the
ability to diffcicntiate the various doOar values of paper money but the great and constant
problem of blind persons is to obtain employments commensurate with their talents,
training, and abilities which will enable them to earn dollars as competing and functioning
members of the labor force; now, thcrefoie, be it
RESOLVED by the National Federation u\ thr Blind in Convention assembled this 6th day
of July, 1971, in the city of Houston, Texas, that this organization directs its officers to
take all actions necessary, including the presentation of testimony in congressional hearings
and otherwise, to defeat HLR. 9102.
Adopted unanimously.