Town of Lewes launches own currency
In a move which seems to be as much about getting publicity for the town as actually encouraging local spending, the town of Lewes in East Sussex has begun printing its own money. The idea is that because the money is only available and only accepted in the town this should ensure that local spending picks up thereby encouraging growth in the local economy.
However, while 70 local traders have signed up to the scheme many of the larger firms with shops in other areas of the UK have refrained from joining the venture. On the surface this may seem a very strange move but a quick look back in time shows that during the 19th century this sort of venture was very popular with a vast array of UK towns having their own currency.
For those looking at flooding the market with fakes it is worth noting that the currency is actually printed on the ultra secure paper which is used by the Royal Mint for more traditional UK currency. Some people may describe this as 'Mickey Mouse' money but it certainly is the real deal even if you can't spend it in every shop in the town!
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