2025-09-06 18:30
publication
2025-09-06 18:30
The last local currency in Great Britain, a pound of Lewes, was withdrawn from circulation on Monday, “Times said. Banknotes, introduced to the market in 2008, were used in the city of Lewes in south-eastern England.
The currency was introduced 17 years ago with the consent of the City Council to support the local economy. Single, two, five-, ten- and 21-pound banknotes were in circulation.
On the front side there was a portrait of Thomas Paine, an Englishman, a resident of Lewes, one of the founding fathers of the United States and his quote: “We have power to build the world again.” On the other side there was a drawing of the castle in Lewes. Banknotes were printed on traditional cotton paper and equipped with a number of security, including unique numbering or water signs.
The value of one pound of Lewes was equal to the value of the pound of Szterling. On one of the popular online auction services, one pound of Lewes could be bought on Monday for 5.20 euros, and the 21-pound banknote reached EUR 40.
The residents of the town themselves admitted in conversations with the “Times” that the introduction of their own local currency was related to the fact that they like to feel special. – There is always enthusiasm in Lewes around everything that deviates from the norm and distinguishes us. It is deeply rooted in the psyche of residents. I do not think that any of us think that (introducing the local currency) change the world, but they just supported it – said Miles Jenner, leading the local brewery.
The local currency was very popular, although some sellers admitted that having a separate place for Lewes pounds at the ticket office was burdensome for them.
In the opinion of the “Times” editorial office, Pound Lewes became a victim of an increase in the popularity of payment cards and digital payments. In 2009, every second transaction in Great Britain was carried out in cash, while ten years later – only every fourth.
From London Marta Zabłocka (PAP)
MZB/ Szm/
