10 Chinese Yuan Banknote (1953)

The 10 Chinese yuan banknote issued in 1953 forms part of the First Series of the People’s Republic of China’s renminbi banknotes. These early issues were introduced shortly after the founding of the People’s Republic and reflect the political, social, and economic priorities of China during the early 1950s. Today, this series is fully withdrawn from circulation and is no longer accepted for everyday use within China.

This 1953 10 yuan banknote was printed by the People’s Bank of China and features the classic large-format design style of early renminbi notes. The note is printed using multi-coloured inks on paper without the advanced security features seen on modern Chinese banknotes. As a result, it is now classified as a legacy and withdrawn issue rather than a current circulating denomination.

The obverse of the banknote prominently displays the national emblem of the People’s Republic of China, surrounded by ornate guilloché patterns and decorative framing. Text appears in multiple scripts, reflecting China’s ethnic diversity and the early design philosophy of the renminbi. The denomination “10 Yuan” is clearly shown within the central design elements.

The reverse of the banknote features a detailed engraved scene depicting workers and industrial progress, a common theme in early Chinese currency designs. This imagery symbolises reconstruction, unity, and national development during the post-revolution period. Traditional Chinese characters and bold denomination markings are positioned on either side of the central illustration.

Although this banknote is no longer legal tender in China and has been withdrawn from circulation for many decades, it remains exchangeable through specialist currency services. Many banks do not accept early renminbi notes, particularly pre-1960 issues, due to their age and withdrawn status.

• Indicate the quantity of 10 Chinese yuan banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

We provide a secure UK-based service for exchanging withdrawn and historic Chinese banknotes, including early renminbi issues from the 1950s. These notes often require additional checks due to their age and collectability, but we regularly handle legacy Chinese currency for individuals, charities, and organisations.

For higher-value or older banknotes, valid identification may be required in order to comply with Anti-Money Laundering Regulations (AMLR).