Uncirculatable

Describes something, typically currency, that is not fit to be used as legal tender or for everyday transactions due to its poor condition. This can be caused by significant damage, excessive wear and tear, or the application of a foreign substance. uncirculatable items are often removed from circulation by banks and financial institutions. They may have a compromised structural integrity or have suffered from mutilation. In addition to physical deterioration, the term can apply to items with suspect authenticity or those that have become obsolete due to currency redesigns. The term emphasizes the inability or impracticality of using the item as intended within the financial system.

Uncirculatable meaning with examples

• The teller examined the bills presented and identified one as uncirculatable, its corner torn and held together with tape. The bank, following its policy, removed it from circulation and replaced it with a fresh bill. The customer understood, knowing that damaged currency is often rejected. Proper money management helps prevent damaged items from being introduced to commerce.
• During the cleanup after the flood, many of the banknotes recovered from the damaged safe were rendered uncirculatable. The waterlogged paper was discolored and fragile, making it impossible to handle without causing further damage. The extent of the destruction to the bills necessitated their replacement. Recovery of uncirculatable bills would be a slow process.
• The antique store owner found a stash of old coins that he discovered were mostly uncirculatable due to the severe oxidation of the metals over time. Some were so corroded that identifying their denomination or features was impossible. He researched and identified that all but a couple had uncirculatable characteristics and should be cataloged as such.
• The vending machine's internal sensors detected several uncirculatable bills inserted by an unsuspecting customer. The machine displayed an error message and promptly rejected the compromised currency. This protected the machine's operational integrity. The bills were uncirculatable due to multiple creases and stains. Good hygiene is important in money handling.
• Counterfeit bills, quickly recognized as uncirculatable, were seized by authorities during a sting operation targeting a local black market vendor. The intricate details and security features were not consistent with the real thing. They would be withdrawn from circulation immediately, and any passerby could see this in an instant. The counterfeit money was easy to detect.