Though you might not know it, the BNote (BN) is Baltimore's local currency. There are almost 20,000 in circulation, and it's growing every month. Why do we need or want a local currency? Simply put, money stays in the community if the only place you can spend it is in the community. Besides that, they just look cool. Fredrick Douglas and and an oriole bird adorn the BN1 while Poe and a raven adorn the BN5. The texture of the paper makes it feel sturdier than your run-of-the-mill US dollar, and the physical size of the BN is just larger than their US counterparts.
Over 130 retailers currently accept the currency, though most of those are limited to the northern parts of the city (mainly Hampden). Now here's the great part...when you exchange $10 for BNotes, you get BN11in exchange. Prices are the same in stores and restaurants, so it's like bringing a 10% off coupon with you! It makes going to places like Woodberry Kitchen in Clipper Mill more affordable. Check out this page for more info on the currency, and this page to find local businesses that accept BNotes.
To pick up BNotes, just stop by one of the 11 locations listed here.
