Hyperinflation – Involuntary Millionaires and Worthless Money

What happens to everyday life when money becomes worthless? You suddenly have more money than you could ever have dreamed of, but it’s still not enough. The exhibition takes us into hyperinflation.

Hyperinflation is nothing new. This form of economic crisis has affected many countries throughout history, and entails devastating consequences for communities and people. Venezuela is currently suffering from severe hyperinflation. The most famous historical example was the crisis that struck Germany in the 1920s in the aftermath of World War I.

Emergency notes and a cheese coin

In the exhibition, exciting objects are displayed from the museum’s collections from hyperinflation crises throughout the ages. They include: the highest denomination ever – 100 million pengo – issued in Hungary after World War II, German emergency notes and a cheese coin from Russia.

Worthless money

A wallet and bag made from worthless Venezuelan banknotes are also displayed.

Constantly changing prices

The exhibition explores the concepts of inflation and hyperinflation. Visitors get to reflect on questions such as: How do you shop in an everyday life where prices are constantly changing and no one knows what the money will be worth the next day? How does life change, and are there both winners and losers in hyperinflation crises? The role of central banks and the importance of confidence in the currency are discussed.

Details of a handbag made of Bolivian banknotes.

From the 20th century to today

The exhibition features films co-created with the Swedish National Bank about how money is created, what inflation really is and how central banks work during economic crises.

The exhibition also presents examples of various solutions to hyperinflation, as well as a timeline depicting hyperinflation crises around the world and throughout Sweden’s economic history, from the 20th century to the present day.

A wallet made of Bolivian banknotes. — Photo: Jens Mohr, The Economy Museum/SHM.

Find the exhibition space

You will find the exhibition Hyperinflation on the entrance level in the museum. Please ask the entrance staff if you have questions.

Plan your visit

Accessibility

We want all visitors to the Economy Museum to feel welcome.

Restaurant and café

Lunch and fika at Restaurant Rosengården.

Museum Shop

Books, gifts and souvenirs.