First paper-based bank note with see-through window presented

Munich

10.05.05

Based in Gmund, South Germany, Papierfabrik Louisenthal, a wholly-owned subsidiary of technology group Giesecke & Devrient GmbH (G&D), has for the first time presented a new generation of paper-based banknotes with a see-through window. The deckle-edged window incorporates a clear film that permits immediate, conclusive authentication of the banknote.

Louisenthal has developed this novel security feature, known as varifeye®, as a see-through window with a genuine deckle edge combined with state-of-the-art security film elements. The general public can visually verify a note that incorporates this feature simply by holding it alternately against a light or dark background. When users hold the element against a light-colored background or look through it, a "V" can be seen in the window. In front of a dark background, the "V" disappears and a green-black hatched area becomes visible. Imitating this effect with the use of commercially available technology is virtually impossible. This means that it presents a particularly high barrier to counterfeiting

The deckle-edge window is created during the process of cylinder-mold web formation as the stock fibers collect against the deckle, leading to the characteristic feather look. The exclusiveness of this method provides especially high counterfeit protection, as it is almost impossible to reproduce by alternative techniques such as punching or cutting. The process can be integrated into existing operations at low cost, since no new production steps are needed. In this size, combined with this variety of form, varifeye® is now available for the first time as a security feature for banknote paper.

With varifeye®, Louisenthal is presenting a new security feature that meets highest requirements in banknote paper production. Besides the ingenious see-through window, varifeye® also permits elements such as the mold-made watermark and windowed security threads that have proved highly successful in protecting paper-based banknotes. But the see-through window itself also promises a further wide range of innovative solutions for simple visual authentication in future.