Paper Money

Paper money is also called a banknote or bill. People use it to buy things every day. It is lighter and easier to carry than coins. Paper money was first made in China more than 1,000 years ago.

Where It Started

The first paper money was made in China during the Tang dynasty. At that time, coins were very heavy to carry. Merchants started using paper notes instead. These notes promised to pay the person a certain amount of coins. Soon, the government began printing the notes for everyone to use.

Money Today

Today, almost every country has its own paper money. American bills are called dollars. Bills have pictures of famous people and places on them. They also have secret marks to stop people from making fake money. Paper money is often made of special cloth and paper mixed together.

Fun Facts

• The first paper money was used in China over 1,000 years ago.
• U.S. dollar bills are made of 75% cotton and 25% linen.
• A one-dollar bill lasts about six years before it wears out.

Did You Know?

Some countries now make their money from plastic instead of paper, so it lasts longer and cannot be torn easily.