Paper Money Market: Crane NXT Preps for 2026 Print Orders
Crane NXT anticipates a surge in high-denomination printing for 2026, reflecting the Fed’s updated order and the ongoing shift toward advanced bank note security.
Private companies continue to be crucial for producing bank notes. Based on the Federal Reserve Board’s recently published 2026 print order, Crane NXT recently announced it is projecting 2026 bank note printing orders to range between 3.8 and 5.1 billion pieces. This will include an anticipated increase in higher denomination notes. Crane NXT President and Chief Executive Officer Aaron W. Saak explained, “We are pleased with the significant increase in expected demand in 2026 for higher denomination bank notes containing advanced security features. Additionally, we look forward to continuing to support the U.S. Currency Program’s strategic priorities, including the currency redesign starting with the introduction of the new $10 bank note scheduled for release next year.” Crane anticipates that fewer new $1, $2, and $5 notes will be needed, while there will be an increase in demand for notes in the $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations.
Crane recently acquired “a significant stake in” Antares Vision SpA, which designs, manufactures, installs, and maintains inspection and detection systems that ensure product safety and quality control. Antares has developed software that aids in preventing counterfeiting. Saak said of the acquisition, “We continue to execute our strategy to be the leading provider of trusted technology solutions that secure, detect, and authenticate our customers’ most important assets. I look forward to providing additional updates on our 2026 outlook during our Q3 [third quarter] earnings call.”
While Crane forges ahead with its production technology, Bank Automation News recently cautioned, “Far too many FIs [Financial Institutions] are still operating on legacy systems not equipped to process or authenticate the new generation of currency.” While the Fed turns to Crane NXT for new bank notes, it appears FIs may be turning to Giesecke+Devrient for upgrades to their identification once the notes are in circulation.
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