Guardian Poland Bee Hive Polymer Test Banknote Pair in Folder

Poland is celebrating the vital role of honeybees with a special banknote, highlighting the deep-rooted connection between bees and currency. This association dates back to the dawn of trade, where honey was among the first commodities exchanged for goods and services. Beekeeping has a rich history, with the earliest evidence of such activities dating back to at least 7000 BC. Bees have been honored on coins since the Bronze Age, around 3000 BC in the region of Ephesus.

In ancient cultures, bees were revered and can teach us valuable lessons about money management. Honey can be seen as the bees' currency, a resource they manage with incredible wisdom. When a beehive swarms, the old queen bee departs with up to 60 percent of the colony, each bee carrying honey. This precious resource allows them to build a new home with the potential to last forever. Meanwhile, the new queen remains in the original hive, sustained by a store of honey. Both colonies continue to gather resources sustainably, only using their honey reserves in times of scarcity.

Bees always keep honey in reserve, sharing it to sustain the colony during tough times. They live harmoniously and sustainably, without debt or interest. In contrast, humans are the only creatures on Earth who pay to live here. The honeybee's way of life offers a poignant reminder of the importance of resource management and the pitfalls of greed.

This pair or polymer banknotes was produced by Guardian to showcase the various security features present on their notes and would make for a great centrepiece in any banknote or bee themed collectors collection.