paper money
Featured
Puzzle #162 · November 10, 2025
Paper money originated in 7th century China during the Tang Dynasty, initially as private bills of exchange, to avoid carrying heavy coins. It became a government-issued currency under the Song Dynasty in the 11th century, with private firms first issuing it, followed by the government taking over in 1023. Europe’s first banknotes were issued in 1661 by Sweden’s Bank of Stockholm
Puzzle Appearances
The expression paper money has appeared in 1 puzzle:
- Puzzle #162 on November 10, 2025
Rate of Appearance in English Language Print
Google's Ngram project shows how often a pair of words has appeared in print every year since the 1800's.
Data from Google Books Ngram Viewer. Licensed under CC BY 3.0.
Explore More Expressions
Everyday the Wordcels Puzzle has a featured expression showing meaning, history and connection to culture. Explore them all.
The Wordcels Puzzle
Think you've mastered Americanisms? The two-word phrases, compound words and idiomatic expressions of American English? Each day the Wordcels Puzzle provides 15 words that must be arranged to form 16 expressions. Give it a try.
