Global networks · United States and Soviet Union · G098

Cola for Vodka

Cola concentrate swapped for vodka when the ruble couldn't convert.

Back of Cola for Vodka: the US–Soviet cola-for-vodka countertrade tradition, how a note would work, and the traits of Noun #46 — Back · the tradition

Security Edition v2

The same note set like a banknote: full engraved portrait of Noun #46, guilloche, watermark, thread, foil stripe and microtext, all printed art. What's on it

Security Edition front of Cola for Vodka: a line-engraved portrait of the full actual Noun #46 in a guilloche oval beside a watermark window, thread and holographic-look stripe — Security Edition · front

Security Edition back of Cola for Vodka: a color medallion of Noun #46 in a guilloche rosette, with the note's story — Security Edition · back

v2 front SVG ↓ v2 back SVG ↓

The tradition · 1972–1990

US–Soviet cola-for-vodka countertrade

Because the ruble was not convertible, a US cola maker agreed in 1972 to supply concentrate and bottling plants to the USSR in return for US rights to sell a Soviet vodka; a later deal added ships.

Source: Pepsi (Wikipedia) ↗

How a note would work

Crates are earned by supplying goods to a partner group in another place and spent on what that partner makes, with no cash crossing over. They are never bought or cashed out.

Design concept inspired by this tradition, not issued by or for the people who keep it. Not legal tender, not for sale, no cash value, no redemption and no investment rights.

Front SVG ↓ Back SVG ↓ Machine edition

PlaceUnited States and Soviet Union
Era1972–1990
RegionGlobal networks
UnitCrate · Crates
Face value72 Crates
SerialGB-G098-N0046
NounActual Noun #46 ↗
Why this NounA soda can for the cola side of the Cold War's most famous swap.
Headpop
Glassessquare yellow orange multi
Bodyfoggrey
Accessoryglasses
Seedbg 0 · body 8 · acc 55 · head 162 · glasses 19