Curious facts about coins, banknotes, and other means of payment

The Steiermärkische Sparkasse commissioned KIMUS Graz GmbH to conceive, design, and realize the special exhibition “Note the difference” at the CoSA – Center of Science Activities. The exhibition is aimed at young people aged 12 and above.

For many people, coins and banknotes lead an inconspicuous existence in their wallets. Yet our means of payment have more to do with science and technology than their appearance would suggest.

In a historically designed “wall newspaper,” “Note the difference” shows what money can be used for—namely, more than just for making payments. Visitors encounter curious facts and unexpected aspects of coins and banknotes and learn how much science is involved in our everyday means of payment.

The exhibition illustrates how gold can be chemically dissolved and what this has to do with the disappearance of Nobel Prize medals. The newspaper exposes fake news and discusses why it is physically impossible to take a full bath in coins – unless you are Dagobert Duck (Scrooge McDuck).

Visitors also learn the theoretically best way to crack a safe and what jeans have to do with gold and wealth. Historical coin banks (on loan) humorously showcase ingenious technical solutions that encourage people to save money.

Of course, there is also a reference to the many special features hidden in a banknote that are only visible under specific lighting conditions.

Little-known tales of dying stars and dogs sitting behind locked doors complete the exhibition’s colorful picture.

The exhibition runs from 16 October 2025 to 1 January 2027.