Ukraine's Most Common Banknote Revealed by Central Bank

Cash Circulation Statistics in Ukraine

According to ХВИЛЯ: According to data from the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU), the 500-hryvnia note is the most frequently used banknote in the country, accounting for 26% of all bills in circulation. The total cash volume in Ukraine reached 926.3 billion hryvnias by the start of 2026, marking a 12.6% increase from the previous year. This growth in cash usage occurs despite the global trend towards digital payments.

There are 2.6 billion banknotes in circulation, with a total value of 916.9 billion hryvnias. The 50-hryvnia note represents the smallest share, making up only 4-6% of the total number of bills. However, the quantity of 50-hryvnia notes grew by 6.3%, and 100-hryvnia notes increased by 4.5%. In contrast, the number of 200-hryvnia notes in circulation fell by 17.6%.

Commentary from an NBU Representative

Oleksii Kozirev, an NBU representative, stated: 'The National Bank is gradually replacing old banknotes with new or redesigned ones to enhance their security features.'

He further added: 'If you take five 200-hryvnia notes or one thousand-hryvnia note, it's more convenient to hold a single bill.' The NBU is preparing a design update for the 200-hryvnia note, which may affect its future popularity in circulation.

The rise in Ukraine's cash volume and shifts in the banknote structure indicate active public use of physical currency, which may relate to economic conditions and consumer preferences. The redesign of notes, particularly the 200-hryvnia bill, could positively influence its circulation, as new banknotes are often associated with improved counterfeit protection and user convenience.