Canada’s paper currency is gradually losing the tiny bumps placed in the upper right corner of modern bills that have helped the blind know what denomination they have in hand. The raised dots are not braille but are arranged in patterns that a blind person can feel to quickly identify a denomination, from $5 to $100. The dots were added to the so-called Canadian Journey series of bank notes, introduced in 2001 after extensive consultations with groups representing the visually impaired. The Canadian Journey series has other special features to help those with poor vision – larger numbers, contrasting colours – but the blind have no other option except a device that reads the bill and indicates its denomination by tone, vibration or even voice. A spokeswoman for the Bank of Canada said officials are working on the problem for the next series of notes, which are being revamped to stay one step ahead of counterfeiters. read more
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