What Is a Pick Number (P-Number)? Complete Guide for Banknote Collectors

The Pick number, commonly referred to as
the P-number, is the most widely used system for identifying banknotes
worldwide. It comes from the Standard Catalog of World Paper Money,
which is considered the global reference for collectors, dealers, and
researchers.

Each banknote is assigned a unique identifier such as P-1, P-70, or
P-123a. This system allows collectors to distinguish between similar
banknotes, even when they share the same denomination and year.

The system was created by
Albert Pick, a German numismatist and expert in paper money. His catalog
became the foundation for modern banknote classification.

Today, Pick numbers are used globally and are considered the standard
language of banknote collecting.

Pick numbers are assigned sequentially
within each country. For example: - P-1 usually represents the earliest
cataloged banknote - Higher numbers represent later issues

Variants of the same banknote are обозначены буквами: - P-70 → main
type - P-70a → first variation - P-70b → second variation

These variations may include differences in: - signatures - colors -
minor design elements - serial number styles

Pick numbers play a critical
role in the banknote market. They are used for:

-   Identifying banknotes precisely
-   Buying and selling on marketplaces like eBay
-   Organizing collections
-   Avoiding confusion between similar notes
-   Determining rarity and value

Without Pick numbers, collectors would struggle to communicate clearly
about specific banknotes.

For example, a collector
searching for a specific banknote might look for: “Germany 1923 10000
Mark P-85”

This tells us: - Country: Germany - Year: 1923 - Denomination: 10000
Mark - Catalog reference: P-85

This level of precision is essential for collectors and dealers.

Heading: Common Mistakes Beginners Make Many beginners misunderstand
Pick numbers. Common mistakes include:

-   Confusing P-70 with P-70a (they are different notes)
-   Ignoring letter suffixes
-   Assuming same year = same banknote
-   Not using catalog references when buying

Learning to use Pick numbers correctly is one of the most important
steps in becoming a serious collector.

While Pick numbers are
the most popular, other systems exist. However, none are as widely
accepted globally.

Because of this, Pick numbers are considered the universal standard in
banknote collecting.

Heading: How to Use Pick Numbers on Your Website If you are building a
catalog like Koguja.ee, Pick numbers can be used to:

-   Structure your database
-   Improve SEO (people search by P-number)
-   Link similar banknotes
-   Connect users to marketplaces