Important Update: Tariffs Impacting Prices on Planet Banknote

Dear Planet Banknote Community,

In light of recent global trade developments, we want to inform all our customers about upcoming price adjustments on our website. Due to newly imposed tariffs by the United States government – and retaliatory tariffs from some other countries – the costs for importing world currencies and banknotes have increased. Consequently, over the coming weeks and months, our prices will gradually rise. This decision was not made lightly, and we’d like to explain the reasons and reassure you of our ongoing commitment to authenticity, fair pricing, and transparency.

Why Are Prices Going Up?

Tariffs are essentially taxes on imported goods. In early April 2025, the U.S. enacted sweeping new import duties – a 10% baseline tariff on all imports (US starts collecting Trump's 10% tariff, smashing global trade norms | Reuters). This means every banknote we import from abroad now incurs an extra 10% cost right at U.S. customs. On top of that, higher tariff rates apply to certain countries (for example, 20% on European Union imports and 34% on Chinese goods under the new policy (US starts collecting Trump's 10% tariff, smashing global trade norms | Reuters)). These tariffs dramatically increase our cost of acquiring inventory.

Other nations have responded with tariffs of their own, making international trade even more expensive. For instance, China imposed a 34% tariff on all U.S. goods entering its borders (Trade war escalates as China hits back with 34% tariffs on all U.S. goods : NPR). While we source banknotes from all over the world (not China), such retaliatory measures signal a broader rise in trade barriers globally. In short, it’s now more costly for us to bring authentic banknotes from their country of origin into the U.S., directly impacting our pricing.

(Over 50 nations want to start trade talks with U.S. after tariffs, Trump officials say | Honolulu Star-Advertiser) Tariffs and trade policies have a direct impact on the flow of goods across borders. In early April 2025, the U.S. government introduced sweeping new tariffs on imported goods (US starts collecting Trump's 10% tariff, smashing global trade norms | Reuters), leading to higher costs for businesses that rely on global supply chains. Some trading partners responded with tariffs of their own (China, for example, set a 34% levy on U.S. imports (Trade war escalates as China hits back with 34% tariffs on all U.S. goods : NPR)). This rising trade tension increases expenses at every step of the import process, from port handling to final delivery.

Authenticity Comes First (Even If Costs Rise)

One thing that will never change is our commitment to authenticity. Every banknote we sell is sourced directly from its country of origin to ensure complete authenticity. We do this because we know how important genuine, original banknotes are to collectors. Our team of seasoned banknote specialists takes pride in verifying that all products are authentic and sourced from legitimate origins (Planet Banknote Our Mission). This direct sourcing has always been a core part of Planet Banknote’s mission.

Maintaining this practice in the current trade environment means we inevitably face higher import costs. We could look for cheaper, third-party middlemen or alternative sourcing to avoid tariffs – but that might compromise the authenticity or quality of the notes. We refuse to cut corners. To continue bringing you real banknotes straight from their home countries (with official Certificates of Authenticity included in every order), we must adjust our prices to cover the new import taxes. We believe our customers value authenticity as much as we do, and we want to be transparent that these price increases are directly tied to keeping our sourcing 100% legit and direct.

International Customers – Duties & Taxes Reminder

For our international customers (those of you outside the United States), please be aware of your own country’s import fees. Any tariffs, import duties, VAT, or customs taxes required by your country will be your responsibility to pay upon delivery. These charges are imposed by your government, not by Planet Banknote. Recent trade tensions mean some countries are charging higher import taxes on goods from the U.S. (for example, China’s 34% tariff on U.S. imports mentioned earlier) (Trade war escalates as China hits back with 34% tariffs on all U.S. goods : NPR). Even if your country hasn’t announced new tariffs, standard import fees still apply as usual.

Important: If you refuse to pay your country’s required import fees or taxes and the shipment is returned to us, Planet Banknote will not issue a refund for the order. We strongly encourage you to check your country’s import guidelines so there are no surprises. When you buy from us, you are importing collectible currency; as the importer, you must settle any fees that your customs authorities charge. We appreciate your understanding that we cannot cover these costs on your behalf.

Our Commitment to Fair & Competitive Pricing

Even as we make pricing adjustments, please know that we are committed to keeping our prices competitive within the banknote collector community. We have always strived to offer fair, affordable prices for both new and seasoned collectors. That will not change. We are implementing only the minimum necessary increases to offset the tariff-related costs. Industry analysts have noted that most retailers cannot absorb tariff hikes without raising prices, often on the order of 10–12% for affected goods (How tariffs will impact sports merchandise, collectibles | cllct). Rest assured, we are doing everything we can to stay at the lower end of that spectrum and preserve the best value for our customers.

We continue to streamline our operations, negotiate better shipping rates, and minimize other expenses so that the additional costs to you are as small as possible. Our goal is that Planet Banknote remains your affordable source for authentic world currencies, even in this challenging economic climate. We value your trust and will work hard to keep it.

Buy Now Before Further Changes

If you’ve been eyeing a particular banknote or series for your collection, now may be the best time to buy. The global trade situation is volatile, and conditions can change quickly. Analysts observing the current trade war predict that a near-term resolution is highly unlikely (Trade war escalates as China hits back with 34% tariffs on all U.S. goods : NPR). What does this mean for collectors? It means these tariffs and higher costs could persist (or even increase) in the foreseeable future. Additional adjustments might become necessary if trade tensions escalate.

By purchasing now, you can take advantage of our current pricing before any further increases take effect. Many of our existing stock was acquired before these latest tariffs started, so our current prices still reflect the older, lower costs. We cannot predict the future of international trade policies, but we can advise that the climate is unpredictable. Acting sooner rather than later could save you money, as we adjust to any new developments. Don’t miss the opportunity to grab the items on your wishlist at today’s prices.

Transparency and Our Appreciation for You

At Planet Banknote, we believe in honesty and transparency above all. We want you – our valued customers and fellow currency enthusiasts – to understand exactly why these changes are happening. That’s why we’re sharing this detailed update. You have supported us with your business and trust, and you deserve straight answers. We will continue to communicate openly about significant changes. If further tariffs or cost factors emerge, we will let you know what to expect. Transparency is part of our promise to you.

Finally, and most importantly, thank you. We truly appreciate each member of our community. Your passion for collecting world banknotes is what drives us to overcome challenges like this. We are grateful for your understanding and support as we navigate unpredictable trade conditions. Despite the headwinds, our mission remains the same: to provide you with authentic banknotes, great service, and a place you can rely on for your collection needs.

We’re all in this together as a collecting community. If you have any questions or concerns about these changes, please feel free to reach out to us at any time. Our customer support team is here to help.

Thank you for being a part of Planet Banknote’s journey. We remain committed to serving you with integrity, fairness, and appreciation.

Sincerely,
The Planet Banknote Team

Planet Banknote – Your Trusted Source for Authentic World Currencies (Planet Banknote Our Mission)