Damaged banknotes in Malta
Torn, burned, washed, or missing a piece, what it is still worth.
Is a damaged note still worth its face value?
Usually yes. A damaged banknote is not automatically worthless. In Malta you are reimbursed at full face value if more than50% of the note survives. Below that it is assessed individually rather than refused outright. Free in principle. A fee is charged for notes accidentally damaged by an anti-theft device.
Where to take it
| Condition | Where to go |
|---|---|
| More than 50% of the note survives | A bank counter will usually exchange a note that is merely worn or slightly torn. |
| 50% or less survives, or badly damaged | Central Bank of Malta |
How it works
The Central Bank of Malta applies the Eurosystem rules in ECB Decision 2013/10. A damaged or mutilated note, partly burnt, cut or decomposed for example, is replaced if you present more than half of it, or if you can prove that the missing part was destroyed. Deliberately mutilated or damaged notes are not redeemed.
Worth knowing
Ink-stained notes are a separate case. Bright violet, green, blue, red or black ink soaking in from the edges usually comes from an anti-theft device in an ATM or cash box, and such a note was probably stolen: refuse it. Central banks exchange those notes only for the original owner who was the victim of the crime. A light, accidental mark, such as from a leaking pen, is fine.
Practical advice
- Handle a damaged note as little as possible and do not tape, glue, wash or clean it: that can destroy evidence the examiner needs. Lay the pieces out as found, and follow the issuer's own packing instructions.
- Keep every fragment, however small, and store them exactly as found.
- If a note is contaminated or came out of a fire, say so when you submit it; there are handling procedures for that.
- Never assume a damaged note is worthless and throw it away.
Cash declaration rules for Malta →
Sources: as of 22 September 2026. General information, not legal or financial advice; the issuing authority decides each case.
- Regulation (EU) 2018/1672 on controls on cash entering or leaving the Union · retrieved 22 September 2026
- Damaged banknotes: European Central Bank · retrieved 15 October 2026
- Damaged notes: Central Bank of Malta · retrieved 15 October 2026