A Study of Tibetan Paper Money with a Critical Bibliography

93 (Illustrated in Color and B&W)Back of The BookPaper currency was only introduced into Tibet in the early 20th century, and yet Tibetan banknotes are arguably the most attractive among world currencies. The designs on the banknotes include both religious and national symbols, such as the snow lion and the lung rta (“wind horse”), and most are printed in vivid colours.This currency represents a unique blend of printing skills and the artistic genius inspired by a long historical tradition of painting in Tibet. Those banknotes which survive are a testament to Tibet’s independent status prior to 1959, and serve as a tangible reminder of Tibetan material culture.The author of this numismatic study, Wolfgang Bertsch, explores both the content and design of the currency, and provides a thoroughly researched and comprehensive Bibliography for those who wish to pursue the subject further.Publisher’s NoteWe are pleased to be publishing this numismatic study of Tibetan paper currency, entitled A Study of Tibetan Paper Money with a Critical Bibliography, by Mr. Wolfgang Bertsch. This carefully compiled volume contributes handsomely to research into various aspects of Tibetan material culture.As Wolfgang Bertsch indicates, although paper currency was only introduced into Tibet in the early years of this century, the notes are arguably the most attractive and artistic to be found among all the banknotes of the world. This could be accounted for by the combination of highly developed printing and painting skills within the Tibetan historical tradition.Moreover, this research provides tangible proof of the use of Tibetan currency by citizens of an Independent Tibet in the first half of