The Bank of Spain has announced that it can recover cash that has been burnt in the recent wildfires that have devastated the country this summer. It processes approximately two hundred and fifty thousand euros in coins and five million euros in banknotes each year through its laboratories. However, the recovery of burnt banknotes poses particular challenges. Carmen Álamo, the head of the Cash Analysis Division at the Bank of Spain, stated that notes showing more than fifty per cent of their surface can be exchanged for new ones. If the majority of the note is destroyed, evidence of the fire from authorities like the fire brigade or police must be provided.

Pilar Dotor from the Bank’s Cash Laboratory emphasised the importance of submitting damaged notes without any manipulation, preferably packed in boxes to prevent further damage. Experts indicate that in some instances, large quantities of valuable notes are at stake. High temperatures can cause banknotes, made from cotton fibre, to shrink, making them noticeably different in size from legitimate originals. Despite the damage, security features and relief patterns can still be verified through extensive analysis.

The process of analysing burnt banknotes involves weeks of meticulous work aimed at salvaging the money that represents significant effort for many individuals. Those wishing to recover their burnt cash can do so by appointment at any branch of the Bank of Spain. Furthermore, the Bank highlights the importance of distinguishing between intentionally damaged notes, which cannot be exchanged, and those that have been accidentally harmed. Any alterations, such as inscriptions or stamps, are regarded as intentional damage and will prevent the notes from being circulated again.

Therefore, the Bank of Spain reminds the public to treat banknotes with care and to be cautious of any form of intentional destruction that could jeopardise their ability to recover lost funds.