In the coming weeks, you may witness the look and feel of Canada's new polymer one-hundred dollar bill. Since unveiling the bank note series in June 2011, the Bank of Canada has been working closely with financial institutions and the manufacturers of bank note equipment to support a smooth transition to the new money. The bank notes are among the most advanced in the world, contain leading-edge security features that make them difficult to counterfeit but easy to verify. For example, a large transparent area extends from the top to the bottom of the note and contains complex holographic features that can be viewed from both sides.

The lifespan of the new bank note will vary by its value, with the $100 bill seeing less use than smaller denominations. The $50 note, which was also unveiled in June, will be issued in March 2012. The $20 note will begin circulating in late 2012, followed by the $10 and $5 notes by the end of 2013.

The security features on the new $100 note are quick and simple to use. So whether you come across one by chance, or you've sought it out to give someone a really nice gift, take a minute and get to know its features.

Feel, Look and Flip

Feel, Look and Flip is a phrase that reminds you how to check key security features on the polymer notes.

Feel
•     Feel the smooth, unique texture of the note. It's made from a single piece of polymer with some transparent areas.

Look
•     Look for transparency through the large window and the outline of the frosted maple leaf window.
•     Look at the details in the metallic portrait and building in the large window.

Flip
•     Flip the note to see the metallic portrait and building repeated in the same colours and detail on the other side of the large window.

Marg South at Airdrie's downtown RBC branch supports the new currency.

Check www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes for further information.