CN115366557B

CN115366557B - Value document and method for producing a value document

Info

Publication number: CN115366557B
Application number: CN202210534924.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: M.拉姆; S.比切梅尔; H.洛希比勒; M.菲弗; T.萨特勒
Original assignee: Giesecke and Devrient GmbH
Current assignee: Giesecke and Devrient GmbH
Priority date: 2021-05-18
Filing date: 2022-05-17
Publication date: 2024-06-11
Anticipated expiration: 2042-05-17
Also published as: EP4091830A1; CN115366557A; DE102021002600A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a value document, such as a banknote, check, credit or other payment card, identification card or the like, having a front side and a back side. The value document shows a visually recognizable view in a plan view from the front and has a specific size (L, B) in the plan view. The value document (1) has a base body (2) which has a specific dimension (L, B) in a top view and is connected to a first transparent film (18) having an inner side and an outer side in such a way that the base body (2) rests on the inner side of the first transparent film (18), so that the base body (2) is directed towards the rear side and the outer side of the first transparent film (18) is directed towards the front side. The first transparent film (18) likewise has a specific dimension (L, B) in a top view and is produced from the view identifiable from the front by a metallized first embossing structure (20) which is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film (18). Furthermore, a first security element which can only be read by a machine is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film (18).

Description

Value document and method for producing a value document

Technical Field

The invention relates to a value document, such as a banknote, a check, a credit card or other payment card, a document card or the like, which has a front side and a rear side and which shows a visually recognizable view in a top view from the front side. The value document has a specific dimension in a top view and has a base body which has the specific dimension in a top view and is connected to the first transparent film having an inner side and an outer side such that the base body rests on the inner side of the first transparent film, so that the base body is directed towards the rear side and the outer side of the first transparent film is directed towards the front side. The first transparent film likewise has the specific dimensions in a top view and is produced from the view identifiable by the front side by a metallized first embossing structure which is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film.

Background

Such value documents are known from DE 10 2014 018551a 1. In this document of value, printing inks based on pigment inks (Pigmentfarbe) are completely avoided. The complete optical appearance, including all optical security features, is created in a single embossing process and subsequent evaporation of the front or back side.

DE 10 2017 130588a1 likewise describes such a value document which additionally has moire features, in particular micro-concave mirrors.

DE 10 2019 004325a1 describes a value document in which the embossing structures of the above-mentioned patent documents and a print receiving layer or a colored print image are combined, which produce an optically variable effect.

The value document must in the future meet high demands on security against counterfeiting and at the same time meet ecological sustainability requirements. The ecologically sustainable security element is characterized by less energy consumption and lower raw material consumption in its manufacture. Avoiding rare and environmentally damaging raw materials and the raw materials used are, as completely as possible, re-flowed into the production of other valuable documents at the end of the product life cycle.

Disclosure of Invention

The invention aims to provide a valuable document with improved anti-counterfeiting safety and improved ecological sustainability.

The object is achieved according to the invention by a value document and a method for producing a value document.

A value document is specified, such as a banknote, a check, a credit card or other payment card, a document card or the like, which value document has a specific size in a top view. The value document has a front side and a rear side and shows a visually recognizable view in a top view from the front side. The value document furthermore has a base body which has the specific dimensions in a top view and is connected to the first transparent film having an inner side and an outer side such that the base body rests on the inner side of the first transparent film, so that the base body points toward the rear side and the outer side of the first transparent film points toward the front side. The first transparent film likewise has the specific dimensions in a top view and is produced from the view identifiable by the front side by a metallized first embossing structure which is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film. The value document has a first security element which is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film and can only be read by a machine.

In a preferred embodiment, the value document has a second transparent film which likewise has the specific dimensions and has an inner side and an outer side. The second transparent film is attached with its inner side to the base body, so that the outer side of the second transparent film points towards the back side of the value document. The view identifiable from the rear side is produced by a metallized second embossing structure arranged on the inner side of the second transparent film. A second security element that is only machine-readable is disposed on the inside of the second transparent film.

"Only" can mean that the information of the first or second security element can only be read by the machine device. A security element that is only machine readable is not identifiable by the naked eye of an observer. "metallized" according to the application means a metal coating, as well as a coating with a highly refractive material or a coating with a combination of metal layers and dielectric layers, for example a color-shifted metal-dielectric-metal layer system.

The value document has a smooth front side and a smooth back side, since the outer side of the first transparent film and the outer side of the substrate body or the second transparent film are on the front side and the back side of the value document. The outer side of the first transparent film and the outer side of the substrate body or the second transparent film are preferably not printed with printing ink nor with conventional security elements. An embossing structure which displays an optically recognizable view for the naked eye when the front or rear side is viewed in plan view is arranged on the inner side of the first or second transparent film and is therefore protected from the chemical or physical pressure to which the front or rear side of the value document is exposed. The same applies to security elements which are likewise arranged on the inner side of the first or second transparent film. Furthermore, by this (internal) arrangement of the embossing structure and the security element, they are well protected against access by manipulation (tampering). Protection is also formed in the further processing steps of the value document. This increases the service life in circulation compared to conventional value documents with an external security element. The security against forgery of the document of value is also increased by the security element being located inside, since the security element cannot be easily removed from the surface or manipulated.

The first or second security element and the metallized embossing structure showing the identifiable view are arranged on the inner side of the first or second transparent film. Thus, both the recognizable view from the front and the first security element can be produced on the inner side of the first transparent film in a single embossing step. The same applies to the identifiable view from the back and to the second security element on the inside of the second transparent film. The application and printing processes of conventional security elements can preferably be completely omitted, so that the process steps in the production of the document of value remain low. Thereby saving resources and increasing the yield of the manufacturing machine, thereby reducing the energy consumption and thus improving the ecological sustainability of the value document.

The first security element can extend over the entire specific dimension of the document of value, so that a larger area of the document of value is provided with a first security element which can only be read by a machine and which is not visible to an observer. Thereby providing security against counterfeiting.

The elimination of the application of conventional security elements in the form of LEAD strips, threads, patches or the like achieves a uniform thickness of the document of value, whereby the risk of jamming in the manufacturing machine is reduced. This increases the yield of the manufacturing machine and thus the ecological sustainability of the value document. Furthermore, the stacking quality of the value document is improved by eliminating the conventional security element.

Since the security element is only machine-readable and preferably extends over a large area of the document of value, an increased security against counterfeiting is achieved. This increased security against forgery of the document of value relative to a document of value having a printed conventional security element also increases its ecological sustainability.

The security document of value can be left on the market for a longer time and does not need to be replaced because of an increased counterfeiting rate. The service life of the value document is thereby improved and thus the ecological sustainability is increased.

In the production process of the value document, it is preferred to use only substances which can flow into the subsequent production process again as completely as possible by means of the recycling method. Furthermore, high-value raw materials, such as rare earths or rare metals, and materials that are harmful to health are preferably avoided. These three aspects also improve the ecological sustainability of the value document.

The conventional printing process can be completely omitted. The conventional printing process repeatedly causes an offset in the manufacturing process, such as an offset between the printed image and the substrate body. This offset must be corrected on the processing machine by complex algorithms to verify the conventional value document in circulation. Since the value document according to the invention does not have such an offset, the risk of rejects when handling the value document is lower than in conventionally manufactured value documents, such as banknotes.

The substrate body and the first or second transparent film preferably consist of a polymer and can thereby improve the protection of the embossed structure located inside and the security element as an element made of paper. However, the substrate body may also be composed of paper or other opaque or translucent material. The substrate body may have a continuous opening in regions that are physically covered by the first transparent film and possibly the second transparent film, but appear transparent or translucent to an observer. In this region, optically variable security features designed for use in transparent or translucent regions may be used.

In a preferred embodiment, in addition to the first and/or second security element which can only be machine-readable, further security elements are arranged on the inner side of the first or second transparent film and/or on the side of the substrate body which is directed towards the inner side of the first or second transparent film. These security elements may likewise be machine-readable only, but they may also display image information to the naked eye of an observer.

Since the first or the second transparent film extends over the entire specific dimension of the substrate body, the security element can be distributed over the entire substrate body, which is not limited to the corresponding carrier fixed to the substrate body in the solutions so far. This enables the value document to be used for example for measurements in longitudinal and transverse transport on banknote processing machines. In this case, the person skilled in the art will understand the transport of banknotes in banknote processing machines in which the shorter edges of the banknotes are at the front in the direction of movement. Lateral transport is understood by those skilled in the art as transport of banknotes in a processing machine, in which the longer edges of the banknote are situated in front in the direction of movement. Furthermore, a relatively large area of the value document can be optically hidden or revealed selectively on one or both sides. Furthermore, since the first security element is not limited (as in the case of conventional security elements) to the size of the respective carrier, a combination of machine-readable features and real-time authentication becomes possibleAn example of this is the hidden placement of the conductor track (Leiterbahn).

In a preferred embodiment, the first and/or the second security element influences the penetrating radiation by terahertz radiation (THz radiation). Layers influencing terahertz radiation are known from the prior art, for example from WO 2020/126065.

In a further preferred embodiment, the first and/or the second security element exhibit a resonance effect for electromagnetic terahertz radiation incident in a frequency range. Such a layer influencing terahertz radiation is known from the prior art, for example from WO2006/027112 A1.

The security element that influences terahertz radiation is combined with the first or second embossing structure and is reproduced in a single process step by embossing on the inner side of the first or second transparent film. The metallization of the first or second embossed structure and the first or second security element is also performed in a single process step. Examples of layers influencing terahertz radiation are structures in two planes, which have slits and have a polarizing effect in the terahertz range.

The first security element (i.e. in embodiments the layer influencing terahertz radiation) is located between the first transparent film and the substrate body and is thus inherently anchored in the document of value. The same applies to the second security element arranged between the substrate body and the second transparent film. The first or second security element cannot be removed by a counterfeiter. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the first or the second security element extends over a specific dimension of the document of value. This enables the authenticity of the entire value document, but also of a part of the value document, to be verified by terahertz radiation.

In a preferred embodiment, the first and/or second security element has a plurality of regions. These regions may have the same layer that affects terahertz radiation. However, the layers of the different regions that influence the terahertz radiation may preferably also be different. The wire grid structure is particularly preferably region-specific, for example with respect to its period or its azimuth angle.

Verification of the authenticity of the layer affected by terahertz radiation is achieved by means of a sensor. The sensor consists of a terahertz source and a terahertz detector. Such sensors are located, for example, in the measuring section of a banknote processing machine in banknote production. In this measuring section of the banknote processing machine, the terahertz source and the terahertz detector are preferably mounted opposite the banknote transport section. The terahertz detector measures the terahertz signal transmitted through the value document (in this case a banknote) in at least one wavelength, preferably in two different wavelengths, particularly preferably in a plurality of different wavelengths.

A preferred variant of the document of value produces linearly polarized radiation in the region of the first or second security element, wherein the terahertz detector measures radiation rotated by 90 °. In this variant, only the radiation that has undergone a polarization rotation at the respective security element is measured. This is the case when the wire grid of the layer affecting the terahertz radiation is rotated by an azimuth angle of 90 ° with respect to the incident vector of the terahertz radiation. In this arrangement, the period of the wire grid may also be selected such that the transmitted signal is different for two or more wavelengths. The signal-to-noise ratio is improved since only the region with the layer affecting the terahertz radiation rotates the polarization and generates a signal at the detector.

Furthermore, the layer influencing the terahertz radiation is advantageous for determining the thickness of the value document. The ultrasonic-based thickness sensor can thereby be dispensed with and the terahertz sensor can be used to determine the thickness of the value document.

In an embodiment, the regions of the first or second security element are provided separately for each denomination of currency or the wire grid structure of these regions is different. Thus, for the case of a banknote's banknote unit division, the banknote denomination can be identified by the terahertz sensor and verified accordingly. The properties of the first and second security element that influence the transmission of terahertz radiation are particularly preferably adapted to one another.

The terahertz sensor may also be used to measure the structural color produced by the metalized section of the first or second stamped structure (terahertz structure). Unlike printing inks, structural colors are precisely defined spectrally and are hardly affected by batch fluctuations in manufacturing. They also do not change their reflection or transmission spectrum over time because the imprinted structures are fully embedded in the dielectric and shielded from environmental effects. The additional analysis of the reflection or transmission of the structural color in the ultraviolet or infrared range compensates for the reduction in the security level caused by the elimination of fluorescent or phosphorescent features and magnetic features when the printing ink is omitted.

In an embodiment, a translucent, metallic grid and/or bragg interference structure, which will be described further below, is integrated into the first and/or second security element.

In a preferred embodiment, the value document is additionally printed. The first transparent film is transparent to the terahertz radiation both with the print receptive layer and the printing ink, so that the layer affecting the penetrating irradiation by the terahertz radiation can be well hidden from view, said layer being located between the first transparent film and the substrate body or between the second transparent film and the substrate body.

In other preferred embodiments, the first and/or second security element has a position-and/or orientation-dependent electrical conductivity.

The direction-dependent conductivity (anisotropic conductivity) is achieved by a thin wire, for example. Such wires are conductive in one direction but non-conductive in the other direction. Thus, for example, in a top view of the value document, the electrical conductivity can be formed from left to right, but not from top to bottom. Such a coding according to conductivity can be decoded by a resistance measuring machine. Different components (e.g. power supply, sensor) and output components can also be used by the protected conductor track. A position-dependent electrical conductivity exists when regions of the first and/or second security element are capable of conducting electricity while other regions are not.

In a preferred embodiment, the first and/or the second security element has an NFC element. The security element on the front or back side of the document of value can contain in sections elements, for example for Near Field Communication (NFC), for example elements that can be activated by a smart phone (e.g. OLED). The security element may furthermore comprise in sections an element for identification by means of electromagnetic waves (RFID). Solar modules for generating energy, LEDs, displays for displaying authenticity or elements for storing electrical energy are also possible. Since the first or second security element is located between the first or second transparent film and the substrate body, the mentioned element is also well protected from external influences. These elements can also be well hidden by means of a printing ink preferably applied on the outside of the first or second transparent film.

In other preferred embodiments, the first and/or second security element may have a grid structure that acts as an optical filter. Such a grid structure has grids in a plurality of regions, which are oriented azimuthally differently. The grid structure may be analyzed by a machine (e.g. spectroscopic analysis in T-DID) and show interactions in transmission and interactions in diffuse reflection.

More preferably, the first and/or second security element has a waveguide body with an in-coupling region and an out-coupling region. The section of the first and/or second security element in which the waveguide is provided preferably has a sandwich structure, in particular a three-layer structure, with a thick high-refractive-index film as the light-conductor layer, which is surrounded by two thin low-refractive-index films. Films used as the waveguide may be printed with LRI paint, for example. The coupling-in and coupling-out regions are then produced, for example, by the recesses of the LRI lacquer. It is also possible to combine with windows in the value document or to use a metallized embossing structure. The waveguide film advantageously does not have the inherent roughness of paper compared to the value document made of paper.

In a further preferred embodiment, the first and/or the second security element has a magnetic coding, which has a magnetic coding element. It is possible to have a magnetic encoding with printed Bits (or Bits) based on pigments of high and low coercivity and a combination of Bits that may contain both types of pigments mixed or superimposed in layers. Magnetic encoding is achieved by bit size and order.

The first and/or the second security element particularly preferably have a magnetic coding along the longitudinal direction of the security element, which comprises different types of magnetic coding elements. There is no magnetic material between each individual encoding element. Such magnetic encoding is known from WO 2014/161674. In one embodiment, the coding elements each have a grid-like magnetic region, wherein the direction of the grid bars of different coding elements can be different. Furthermore, the magnetic coding elements can be designed such that they have conventional magnetic regions which do not comprise grid strips, but in which the magnetic material is applied continuously in a ground-like manner.

It is particularly preferred that the first and/or second security element has a conductivity which is dependent on an externally applied magnetic field.

For a security element that can be machine-readable, it is also possible to use a magneto-resistance effect in which the electrical conductivity depends on the magnetization (magnetic susceptibility) of one or more layers. For this purpose, the first security element preferably has a magnetic layer system consisting of one or more magnetic layers and possibly a non-magnetic layer. The magnetization of the layer system and the resistance measured in relation thereto can be changed by applying an external magnetic field.

In the case of an anisotropic magnetoresistance effect (AMR) preferably used as the magnetoresistance effect, the conductivity depends on the direction of current flow relative to the magnetization direction of the magnetic layer. The resistance is greatest when the magnetization is oriented parallel to the current, and is smallest when the magnetization extends perpendicular to the current direction. For example, permalloy, which is an alloy consisting of 81% nickel and 19% iron, may be used as the magnetic layer. The encoding of the machine-readable security element with the magnetoresistive effect is carried out by a linear grating which is vapor deposited with a magnetic material and has an azimuth angle which can be adjusted at will.

For example, two magnetic layers with different coercive field strengths can also be used as a magnetic layer system, which are separated from one another by a thin nonmagnetic intermediate layer. GMR effects occur on such layer systems: giant magnetoresistance (Giant Magnetoresistance). When the two magnetic layers are magnetized parallel to each other, the resistance of the layer system is lower, whereas when the magnetization directions in the two layers are opposite, the resistance of the layer system is higher. Iron, cobalt or nickel or an alloy containing these metals is preferably used as the magnetic metal. Particularly preferred is the use of ferrosilicon or other iron-containing alloys. For example, cr may be used as a nonmagnetic intermediate layer.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the value document has a first transparent film only on that side of the substrate body which is directed towards the front side of the value document, which first transparent film is provided with a first embossing structure. The second transparent film is not applied to the substrate body and is therefore located on the back side of the value document. The first imprinted structure is metallized and is also visible from the back side of the value document. This is not the case when applying printing inks that require an opaque ink-receiving layer. When they are applied on the front side of the value document, they are not perceived or only less perceived when the value document is viewed from the back side.

The first stamping structure particularly preferably has a vertically asymmetrical contour in sections and a vertically symmetrical contour in sections. The vertically asymmetric profile is a two-dimensional periodic color filter grid, as described in DE 10 2011 101 635 A1. Such a grid produces different color saturation of the front and back sides in reflection. This makes it possible to produce mirror-inverted views with different color saturation on the front and back.

The embossed structure having a vertically symmetrical profile shows the same appearance as seen from the front side and from the back side. A linear grid, i.e. a one-dimensional periodic sub-wavelength grid, is typically used as a vertically symmetrical profile.

The value document according to the application uses a combination of a two-dimensional periodic grid and a one-dimensional periodic sub-wavelength grid in order to be able to visualize an asymmetrical symbol or pattern on the back surface in front of the reading ground (SEITENRICHTIG). This will be further elucidated in the course of the further process according to an embodiment.

By means of the metallized embossing structure on the inner side of the first transparent film, a color effect is produced in transmission which can be perceived when viewed from the back side of the value document. Thus, for example, transmissive features may be formed without having to design windows in the substrate body. Furthermore, the transmissive feature may extend over the entire value document, since the first embossed structure is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film and the first transparent film extends over said specific dimension of the value document. The authenticity check of the value document is thereby significantly simplified, since it is difficult to perform in conventional windows.

Since only one side of the value document is structured (no transparent film is provided on the other side) in this embodiment, the resource consumption of the UV lacquer for embedding the stamp structure is halved, and the energy consumption and the aluminum consumption in vapor deposition are reduced (only one transparent film has to be processed). Further, since only one transparent film is applied to the substrate body, the thickness and weight of the document of value are reduced compared to the conventional document of value having films applied on both sides. The risk of wrinkling is reduced by the two-layer composite structure consisting of the substrate body and the first transparent film relative to a three-layer composite structure consisting of the substrate body and the two films. The risk of delamination of the film is also reduced. The stacking ability of the value document is also improved by the smaller thickness. In addition, security against forgery is improved in the value document of the present embodiment, since it is not possible to separate the appearance on the front side and the back side, and the embossing structure can extend over the entire specific dimension of the value document.

In a method for producing a value document according to the invention, the value document having a base body and a first transparent film arranged on a front-facing side of the base body, the method comprises the following steps:

A prototype (Original) is first provided, which has the specific dimensions of the value document and onto which a first imprint structure is applied, resulting in a stamper. Here, the first imprint structure present in the photosensitive lacquer is "replicated" by electroplating in nickel or by shaping in a photopolymer, thereby forming a stamper on the prototype.

An impression cylinder is then produced from this stamper on the prototype. For this purpose, a prototype with a stamper located thereon is reproduced on the face of the impression cylinder. This is again achieved by shaping in nickel. The structured nickel shim is then tightened on the impression cylinder.

In a subsequent step, the first imprint structure is transferred from the imprint cylinder onto the first transparent film. This is done in a continuous process (e.g. roll-to-roll) by embossing in UV lacquer (UV nanoimprinting) or Hot embossing (Hot-Embossing).

The first imprinted structure is then covered by a thin metal layer, preferably made of aluminum, copper, chromium, iron, nickel, silver or their alloys, or by a high refractive index coating such as ZnS, tiO ₂、SiO_x. Bimetallic evaporation can preferably also be used for the coating in order to produce or reinforce different colours on the front and back of the value document. Combinations of super silver coatings or thin film metallizations, such as color shifting (Colorshift), are also possible. Methods in the coating process are, for example, high-vacuum evaporation, such as thermal, electron beam evaporation or sputtering.

Finally, a metallized first stamped feature on the first transparent film is attached to the substrate body. This is accomplished, for example, by lamination (KASCHIEREN) or lamination with the first embossed structure inside, i.e., between the first transparent film and the substrate body.

The first stamped feature is sectionally metallized. Preferably, demetallised regions, in particular windows, can be provided in the metallised stamp structure. These areas may be printed with washable ink (Waschfarbe) prior to coating (metallization) with metal or high refractive index materials, for example. After metallization, the metallization is removed in the area together with the washable ink during the washing process. Alternatively, the demetallized regions may also be produced by irradiation with a laser beam after metallization or by a wet etching process or a dry etching process.

In the manufacturing method, the first imprint structure is preferably imprinted in a UV lacquer. In order to reduce the consumption of film in manufacturing, UV lacquer that is structured and subsequently metallized may be transferred onto the substrate body in a transfer process. The film used for the transfer method can be reused later.

There is currently no known method of recycling UV lacquer for embossing. By using a hot-pressing method to introduce the first embossed structure onto the first transparent film, the consumption of UV lacquer is significantly reduced and the film can be recycled.

In a preferred embodiment, the serial number of the value document can also be applied to the metallized first stamp structure by laser irradiation. In this case, the metallization is either completely removed or is modified with a laser pulse in such a way that the metallization is contrasting in color or reflection intensity.

The manufacturing method already described does not change fundamentally if a second transparent film is provided. After the impression cylinder is manufactured, the first and second impression structures are transferred from the impression cylinder onto the first and second transparent films. This is done in a continuous process (e.g. roll-to-roll) by embossing in UV lacquer (UV nanoimprinting) or Hot embossing (Hot-Embossing). The stamped structure is then coated as already described and, if necessary, removed again in sections.

The first and second transparent films are connected to the substrate body by lamination or lamination, preferably in a single working step, so that the substrate body is located between the two transparent films.

In other preferred embodiments, the substrate body is transparent. The use of a transparent substrate contributes to the security against counterfeiting of the document of value. In the design, the structural color produced by the metallized embossing structures applied to both sides is selected such that the regions complement one another in terms of color when the front and rear faces are viewed from above. Furthermore, the regions of the first stamp structure can be coated with a metallic or high-refractive-index coating, while the opposite regions of the second stamp structure are not coated, so that the color effect produced by the metallized first stamp structure is visible in the demetallized regions of the second stamp structure when looking down on the back side of the value document. In this embodiment of the document of value, it is almost impossible to forge the document of value by separating the front side and the back side, so that the security against forgery is increased.

One or more design features, such as demetallized multi-tone watermarks, masking of the fluorescent, phosphorescent or infrared light lying inside differently on both sides, and structures for optically detecting authenticity, can preferably be applied to the value document, but also hidden structures which can only be measured by special illumination/sensors (for example hidden micromirror arrays (Mikrospiegelanordnungen) which are interlaced with visible micromirror arrays and thus cannot be detected by eye).

Copy protection structures such as ohm-rings, guillotine (Guillochen) or copy protection structures consisting of metallized embossed structures may also be applied on the inner side of the first and/or second transparent film and/or on the substrate body itself.

In a preferred embodiment, the front side of the value document, i.e. the outer side of the first transparent film, and the inner side of the first transparent film, or the substrate body itself, can be printed. If a second transparent film is provided, it can likewise be printed on both sides. All common printing processes are possible, in particular magnetic printing, neoMag, IR, sicpaTalk, fluorescence, UVABC, phosphorescence, but also the stamping of characteristic substances such as M, NAOS, elu, jewel or the stamping of conventional security features, for example in the form of lines or patches (Aufdruck). Conventional security elements may be, for example, holograms, micromirrors, sub-wavelength grids, moth-eye structures, CS, CC, in combination with fluorescent, luminescent, phosphorescent, or IR materials. Standard banknote printing by engraving of a steel plate and screen printing are of course also possible if the document of value is a banknote.

The invention also relates to a method for producing a value document, such as a banknote, a check, a credit card or other payment card, a document card or the like, which has a front side and a rear side, has a specific size in a plan view and shows a visually recognizable view in a plan view from the front side. The substrate body having the specific dimensions in plan view is connected to the first transparent film having the same specific dimensions in plan view and having an inner side and an outer side in such a way that the substrate body rests on the inner side of the first transparent film, so that the substrate body is directed toward the rear side and the outer side of the first transparent film is directed toward the front side. The view identifiable from the front side is produced by a metallized first embossing structure which is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film and a machine-readable only first security element is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film.

It is particularly preferred that the second transparent film, which likewise has the specified dimensions and has an inner side and an outer side, is applied with its inner side against the substrate body, so that the outer side of the second transparent film points towards the rear side of the value document. In this case, a second embossing structure is arranged on the inner side of the second transparent film, by means of which a view is produced which can be recognized from the rear side, and a second security element which can only be read by a machine is arranged on the inner side of the second transparent film.

Drawings

The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which also disclose essential features of the invention. These examples are for illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. For example, descriptions of embodiments having multiple elements or components should not be construed as being necessary for implementation of all such elements or components. Rather, other embodiments may include alternative elements and components, fewer elements or components, or additional elements or components. Elements or components of different embodiments may be combined with each other as long as not otherwise described. Modifications and variations described with respect to one of the embodiments may also be applied to the other embodiments. To avoid repetition, identical or corresponding elements in different figures are denoted by the same reference numerals and are not explained again. In the drawings:

Fig. 1 shows a value document in a top view on the front side;

fig. 2 shows a value document in a sectional view;

fig. 3 shows a banknote in a top view on the front side, with regions exhibiting interactions in the terahertz range;

fig. 4 shows a banknote in a sectional view, with regions showing interactions in the terahertz range;

FIG. 5A shows a security element in top view with regions exhibiting interactions in the terahertz range;

FIGS. 5B-5E show in top view the areas showing interactions in the terahertz range;

6A-6D illustrate regions with authenticity features in top view;

6E-6F show images of regions with authenticity features in top view;

Figure 7 shows an authentication system on a banknote processing machine;

FIG. 8A shows a schematic diagram showing wavelength dependent reflection of an imprinted structure;

FIG. 8B shows a schematic diagram showing the wavelength dependent transmission of an imprinted structure;

FIG. 9A shows a semitransparent metal grid in transmission;

FIG. 9B shows a Bragg interference structure in reflection;

FIGS. 10A-10B show areas with conductive line structures in top view;

FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate NFC elements;

FIGS. 12A-12B show a transmissive sub-wavelength grid in cross-section;

FIGS. 13A-13D show the DID window element in cross-section;

FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate waveguide structures;

FIG. 15A shows a magnetic encoding in cross-section;

FIG. 15B shows a magnetic code in top view;

FIG. 15C shows in cross-section an imprinted structure, partially evaporated with a magnetic material;

FIGS. 16A-16D illustrate an demetallized grid design;

fig. 17 shows an ohm-ring;

FIGS. 18A-18C illustrate an anti-copy structure that is demetallized;

Fig. 19 shows a banknote with regions having a vertically asymmetrical structure in a top view on the front side;

figure 20 shows in cross-section a banknote having regions with vertically asymmetric structures;

fig. 21A shows a banknote with multiple sides in top view of the front side (left) and top view of the back side (right);

fig. 21B shows a banknote with multiple regions in top view of the front (left) and top view of the back (right).

In the drawings, the same elements are respectively provided with the same reference numerals.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a value document 1 with a base body 2 in a top view on the front. The value document 1 and thus the substrate body 2 have a length L and a width B, wherein according to the application a specific dimension L, B is referred to. The first optically variable element 4, the second optically variable element 6 and the third optically variable element 8 are arranged on the value document. Further, the serial number 10, the number 12 and the first image element 14 and the second image element 16 are located on the value document 1.

Fig. 2 shows the value document 1 in a sectional view. The first transparent film 18 is arranged on the base body 2 such that the outer side of the first transparent film is directed toward the front surface. A first embossed structure 20 is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film 18 directed towards the substrate body 2. The first stamped structure 20 has a metallization 22. A DeMet region 24 is provided between the first transparent film 18 and the substrate body 2. The internal printed image 23 is located on the substrate body 2. An external printed image 25 is arranged on the back side of the substrate body 2 and on the outside of the first transparent film 18.

Furthermore, a first security element is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film 18. The first security element is not explicitly shown in fig. 2, since it cannot be distinguished schematically from the first embossed structure 20. The first embossed structure 20 is applied together with the first security element in a single process step, preferably by embossing, onto the inner side of the first transparent film 18. By means of this internal arrangement of the first stamp structure 20 and the first security element, they are protected from the chemical and physical stresses to which the front and back sides of the value document 1 are exposed. In addition, an enhanced protection against access by manipulation and a longer service life are achieved compared to value documents with conventional printed security elements.

The substrate body 2 and the first transparent film 18 consist of a polymer and thus enable improved protection of the first embossed structure 20 in the interior and of the first security element as a substrate made of paper.

The first embossed structure 20 is applied on the inside of the first transparent film 18 and is coated with a metallization 24. The metallized imprint structure produces a color effect by forming a structural color. Even picture elements 14, 16 can be produced. In this way, printing ink can be dispensed with entirely in embodiments. In the embodiment of fig. 2, the external printed image 25 is still applied to the outside of the first transparent film 18 and to the substrate body on the side directed towards the rear side of the value document 1. This outer printed image 25 serves to conceal the first security element from an external observer.

Additionally, the first security element is only machine-readable, so it is not or hardly recognizable to an external observer with the naked eye. It can only be read out by a machine device. Thereby improving the security against forgery of the value document 1.

The first transparent film 18 also has the specific size L, B, so that the first transparent film is located on the entire surface on the substrate body 2. The first embossed structure 20 is disposed on the inside of the first transparent film 18, and thus the first embossed structure may also extend over the entire specific dimension L, B. By means of the metallization 22 of the first stamp structure 20, a color effect can be produced on the entire specific dimension L, B of the value document 1 by means of the first stamp structure 20 coated with the metallization 22 only.

The first security element is also arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film 18 and can thus extend over the entire specific dimension L, B of the value document 1, so that a larger area of the value document 1 is provided with security elements which are only machine-readable. The first security element is not limited to the respective carrier and its dimensions as in conventional printed security elements. Since only machine-readable security elements are initially not perceptible to an external observer, the actual security protection is significantly higher than that which the security element initially appears to have when the front face is viewed with the naked eye.

In addition to the first security element which is only machine-readable, other security elements (also not shown) may also be arranged between the substrate body 2 and the first transparent film 18. The further security element is here also a security element which can only be read by a machine. However, conventional security elements in the form of patches or strips may also be applied. The security element may be applied either to the substrate body 2 or to the inside of the first transparent film 18.

Serial number 10 and number 12 are produced, for example, by laser irradiation of metallization 22 on first stamped structure 20. In this case, the metallization 22 is either completely removed in the irradiated region or the metallization 22 is modified with ultrashort laser pulses in such a way that the metallization 22 is contrasting in color or reflection intensity.

Fig. 3 shows a value document 1 in a further embodiment as a banknote in a top view from the front. The value document 1 has a substrate body 2, a first transparent film 18 being applied to the substrate body 2 (indicated by shading). A second transparent film 21 is applied on the back surface of the substrate body 2. As with the first transparent film 18 and the second transparent film 21, the base body 2 has a specific size L, B.

Banknote printing 26 and security strip 28 are arranged in regions on the document of value 1. The value document 1 also has a third optically variable element 30 and a fourth optically variable element 32 and a serial number 10. The first terahertz feature 34, the second terahertz feature 36, the third terahertz feature 38, the fourth terahertz feature 40, the fifth terahertz feature 42, and the sixth terahertz feature 44 are provided regionally.

Fig. 4 shows the value document 1 according to fig. 3 in a sectional view. The base body 2 is connected to the first transparent film 18 and the second transparent film 21 through the aluminum vapor deposition portion 43. The first embossed structure 20 and the first slit structure 47 are arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film 18. The second embossed structure 45 and the second slit structure 49 are arranged on the inner side of the second transparent film 21. A plurality of first regions 41 can be seen in the cross-sectional view, and second region 46, third region 48, and fourth region 50 can be seen. The terahertz features 34 to 44 are designed in the regions 46 to 50, the first region 41 not affecting the penetrating irradiation by the terahertz radiation.

The overall appearance of the value document 1 according to fig. 3 and 4 is produced solely by the interaction of the stamp structures 20, 45 with the first and second security elements (in this case terahertz features 34 to 44). No printed image is applied either internally or externally. Furthermore, there is no conventional carrier-based security element on either the substrate body 2, the first transparent film 18 or the second transparent film 21.

Thus, in the present embodiment, without the use of printing inks, only a recognizable view is produced by the structural color, which can be perceived with the naked eye when the front side of the value document 1 is observed. These structural colors are produced by a first stamp structure 20 coated with a metallization 22, which is inherently anchored in the value document 1 (which is located on the inner side of the first transparent film 18) and is thus well protected from external influences. In contrast to printing inks, this structural color enables analysis of reflection or transmission in the ultraviolet or infrared range and thus enables the introduction of additional security features in order to increase the security against forgery of the document of value 1.

The embossing structures 20, 45 and the security element (in this case slit structures 47, 49) are applied in a single process step by embossing onto the inner side of the first or second transparent film 18, 21. The embossing structures 20, 45 and the possible metallization 22 of the security element are likewise carried out in a single process step. In this embodiment a structure with slits in two planes is provided. Other areas affecting the irradiation by penetration of terahertz radiation are also possible. The measurement of penetrating radiation by terahertz radiation is explained in more detail below with reference to fig. 7.

The design of the value document according to fig. 3 and 4 ensures that the security element inherently anchored in the value document 1 is not torn off by counterfeiters as is the case with conventional security elements based on carriers which are located on the surface of the value document 1. Furthermore, the stamp structure may extend over the entire specific dimension L, B of the value document 1. The same applies to the first or second security element. This enables the authenticity of the entire value document 1 to be verified, but also of the parts by terahertz radiation.

As shown in fig. 3, the value document 1 has a plurality of regions with different terahertz features 34 to 44. The terahertz features 34 to 44 are different in shape. However, if they are designed as a wire grid, they may also differ, for example, in their period or their azimuth angle. Multiple areas with identical terahertz features 34 to 44 can also be applied on the value document 1.

In the embodiment of the value document 1, it has to be noted that, when the terahertz features 34 to 44 are applied to the front side of the value document 1, the rear side of the value document 1 must also exhibit a transmission when irradiated with the terahertz radiation in order to be able to measure the transmission accordingly. This can be seen in fig. 4. As with the third region 48 and the fourth region 50, the second region 46 has transmission during irradiation of terahertz radiation, but not in the first region 44. Terahertz waves do not show any transmission in a closed metal film, but are instead transmissive to dielectrics such as paper or film. Wire grids are particularly preferred because of their polarizing effect on transmission. This will be explained in more detail with reference to fig. 7.

The second region 46 has a second slit structure 49 on the inner side of the second transparent film 21. The inner side of the first transparent film 18 opposite this region is demetallized so that terahertz interactions can be measured in transmission. In the fourth region 50, the situation is reversed. The first slit structure 47 is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film 18, while the inner side of the second transparent film 21 opposite to this area is demetallized. The first and second slit structures 47, 49 may also be opposite each other, as in the case of the third region 48, so that terahertz interactions in transmission may also be measured.

A pattern 52 in the form of a parrot is shown in figure 5A. The pattern is an example of a first or a second security element arranged on the value document 1. Superimposed on this pattern 52 is a structure that shows interactions in transmission in the terahertz range and that cannot be recognized in the visible range (i.e. can only be machine-readable). As with the second terahertz structure 56, the first terahertz structure 54 shows a polarization effect in which the first terahertz structure 54 is arranged to rotate relative to the second terahertz structure 56. A third terahertz structure 58 is furthermore provided. Reference numeral 59 in fig. 5A is a schematic diagram showing the transmission effect of the structures 54 to 58.

The terahertz structures 54 to 58 show interactions in the terahertz range and are filled with grids whose period is on the order of the terahertz wavelength range (50 μm) and preferably shorter than the wavelength of the terahertz sensor for measurement in transmission. These grids are transmissive in TM polarization, while transmission of TE polarized waves is blocked. TE polarization means that the E vector of the incident electromagnetic radiation is parallel to the grid lines or slits. The TM polarization of the incident radiation defines the orientation of the E vector perpendicular to the grid lines.

Fig. 5B to 5E show examples of wire grids 60 that may be present in areas with terahertz structures 54 to 58. Fig. 5B shows a linear grid that can be rotated by one azimuthal arrangement. Fig. 5C shows a circular grid. Fig. 5D shows a radial grid and fig. 5E shows a combination of a circular grid and a linear grid oriented azimuthally in different ways. Of course, the period of the wire grid 60 may be the same or additionally different in all embodiments.

Fig. 6A to 6D show further examples of terahertz structures 54 to 58 as described in detail in WO 2006/027112 A1.

Fig. 6E and 6F show images in top view of such a structure, namely terahertz structures 54 to 58.

Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of an authentication system on a banknote processing machine. The value document 1 according to fig. 3 (in the form of a banknote) is guided through the banknote processing machine in a transport section in a banknote transport direction 61. The terahertz source 62 and the terahertz detector 64 are oppositely disposed in alignment with the transport section.

Authentication of authenticity through the terahertz features 34 to 44 is achieved by a terahertz sensor. This terahertz sensor is composed of a terahertz source 62 and a terahertz detector 64. The terahertz source irradiates the value document 1 and thus the terahertz features 34 to 44 with radiation in the terahertz wavelength range. The terahertz detector 64 then measures the terahertz signals transmitted through the value document in at least one wavelength, preferably in two different wavelengths, particularly preferably in a plurality of different wavelengths, in particular in the region of the terahertz features 34 to 44.

If a wire grid is provided in the regions of the terahertz features 34 to 44, linearly polarized radiation is generated in these regions. Here, the terahertz detector 64 measures only radiation rotated by 90 °, i.e., radiation subjected to polarization rotation at the terahertz features 34 to 44. This rotation of polarization occurs at the terahertz features 34 to 44 when the linear grid is rotated by an azimuth angle of 90 ° with respect to the incident vector of the terahertz radiation. Since only the wire grid rotationally arranged in the regions of the terahertz features 34 to 44 causes a polarization rotation, a signal is also generated at the terahertz detector 64 only in these regions, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio. If the period of the line grating is selected differently from one terahertz feature 34 to 44 to another terahertz feature 34 to 44, different transmitted terahertz signals can also be generated for multiple wavelengths.

The described terahertz sensor can also be used to determine the thickness of the value document 1, so that an ultrasound-based thickness sensor can be dispensed with.

Fig. 8A shows a first graphical view 66 of the spectral reflection (0, 0 to 0, 3) of different two-dimensional periodic nanostructures 68 to 76, which are evaporated with a 40nm thick aluminum coating, in a first coordinate direction Y1 as a function of the wavelength (350 nm to 850 nm) in a second coordinate direction X at normal incidence of radiation. Fig. 8B shows a second graphical view 78 of the spectral transmission in the first coordinate direction Y2 as a function of the wavelength in the second coordinate direction X at normal incidence of radiation. The first nanostructures 68 have a period of 280nm, the second nanostructures 70 have a period of 300nm, the third nanostructures 72 have a period of 340nm, the fourth nanostructures 74 have a period of 380nm and the fifth nanostructures 76 have a period of 420 nm.

The curves of all two-dimensional periodic nanostructures 68 to 76 show very characteristic formants in both the visible and infrared and ultraviolet ranges in transmission and reflection. These distinct formants can be used for authenticity identification. The known spectral measuring sensors are suitable for this purpose in processing machines.

Fig. 9A shows a security element in the form of a metal translucent grid 80 having a first section 82, a second section 84 and a third section 86. Upon illumination with the light source 88, a first optical effect 90 is produced in the first section 82, a second optical effect 92 is produced in the second section 84 and a third optical effect 94 is produced around the third section 86 and directed into the eye 96 of the observer.

Fig. 9B shows a security element in the form of an embossed bragg interference structure 98 that reflects radiation incident at an angle 102 from a first direction 100 into a second direction 102.

The metal semitransparent grid 80 according to fig. 9A and the bragg interference structure 98 according to fig. 9B are known. They are aluminum-based stamped structures that have lower aspect ratios than known nanostructures and can therefore be more easily mass-produced with a smaller reject rate. The metal semitransparent grid 80 is suitable as an attractive colored transmission feature in, for example, a banknote window, and the bragg interference structure 98 may create a color effect in reflection. Furthermore, the Bragg interference structure 98 may be superimposed with the Fresnel structure such that the viewer perceives a spatial effect and also perceives a motion effect.

Both types of structures (fig. 9A and 9B) can be used as security elements according to the application. Thus, they may be applied to the first transparent film 18 in the same process as the first embossed structure 20 or to the second transparent film 21 in the same process as the second embossed structure 45 in a single embossing step.

Furthermore, the metallic semitransparent grid 80 or the bragg interference structure 98 has only a simple aluminum coating, so that the coating of the imprint structures 20, 45 or the metallization 22 can also be carried out in a single process step.

The combination of the metal semitransparent grid 80 and the bragg interference structure 98 also achieves an improvement of the appearance of the value document 1. The plasmonic structure color tends to appear dark due to light absorption, while the metal imprinted bragg interference structure 98 appears relatively bright because such a structure absorbs little light.

Fig. 10A shows a metal line structure 105 with horizontal continuous metal lines. Fig. 10B shows a metal line structure 105 with vertical discontinuous metal lines.

With the wire structure 105 according to fig. 10A and 10B, a security element with a position-and/or orientation-dependent conductivity can be produced. Such a metal line structure 105 is also preferably applied in a single process step either together with the first embossed structure 20 on the inner side of the first transparent film 18 or together with the second embossed structure 45 on the inner side of the second transparent film 21.

The continuous horizontal metal line of fig. 10A has conductivity in the horizontal direction but does not have conductivity in the vertical direction. Decoding of the metal line structure 105 may be achieved, for example, by resistance measurement. The metal line structure 105 according to fig. 10B has a break in the vertically extending metal line and is therefore neither horizontally nor vertically conductive.

Fig. 11A shows the NFC element 106, i.e. the element for near field communication, as in fig. 11B. Such elements may also be applied as security elements together with the embossed structures 20, 45 on the transparent films 18, 21. May also be applied to the substrate body. In any case, the NFC element 106 is inherently in the value document 1 protected.

Fig. 12A shows a transmissive sub-wavelength grid 107 that may also be used as a first or second security element according to the present application. The transmissive sub-wavelength grid 107 has tilted nano-platelets 108, which nano-platelets 108 are covered over their entire surface with a coating 110. Fig. 12B also shows a transmissive sub-wavelength grid 107, as already shown in fig. 12A. However, the transmissive sub-wavelength grid 107 according to fig. 12B is only partially covered by the coating 110. Such a structure is known from EP3334611B 1. It is important for the application that such elements are applied over a large area on the inner side of the first transparent film 18 in a single process step together with the embossed structures 20, 45.

Fig. 13A to 13D show a DID (DIFFRACTIVE IDENTIFICATION DEVICE, diffraction recognition device) window element 112 known from WO 2017/202866. These DID window elements can also be opened together with the stamp structures 20, 45 in one process step into the value document 1 and thus be security elements according to the invention.

Fig. 14A to 14C show the value document 1 in a sectional view. Similar to fig. 2, a substrate body 2 is shown, a first transparent film 18 being arranged on said substrate body 2. The first embossed structure 20 where the metallization 22 is located is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film 18. Further, an internal printed image 23 is applied on the base body 2 and an external printed image 25 is applied on the base body 2 and the first transparent film 18. A waveguide body, not explicitly shown, is arranged between the substrate body 2 and the first transparent film 18. The waveguide has an in-coupling region 114 and an out-coupling region 116 (shown schematically by arrows). The waveguide body may of course also be arranged between the substrate body 2 and the second transparent film 21.

The waveguide body, not shown in detail, generally has a three-layer structure in which a thick high refractive index film serves as a light guiding layer and is surrounded by two thin low refractive index films. For example, films used as waveguides may be printed with LRI (low refractive index ) paint. The out-coupling region 114 and the out-coupling region 116 are then created by the void of the LRI lacquer.

Fig. 15A shows a magnetic encoding element 118 as already known from WO 2014/161674. Such a magnetic coding element 118 can also be applied in one step as a first or second security element over a large area to the inner side of the first or second transparent film 18, 21. In this embodiment, the mechanical reading is achieved by NSMag sensors, which can be used similarly to the terahertz sensors described.

Fig. 15B shows the value document 1 in a top view. A plurality of magnetically active regions are applied to the substrate body 2 in the form of patches. The first magnetic patch 120 and the second 122 and third 124 magnetic patches can be seen in fig. 15B.

Fig. 15C shows the structure of creating the magnetic patches 120 to 124 in a cross-sectional view. In the present embodiment, an embossing structure 126 is provided as a security element, which is provided with a magnetic coating 128 in sections.

The embossed structure 126 may be applied to the inner side of the first or second transparent film 18, 21 by embossing in a single process step together with the first or second embossed structure 20, 45. Likewise, the magnetic coating 128 may be applied in a unique process step with the metallization 22. The magnetic patches 120-124 have a coating of LoCo (low coercivity), hiCo (high coercivity) or HiLoCo (combination of LoCo and HiCo) to create a security element that is only machine readable.

A watermark in the form of a demetallised mesh design 130 may also be applied to the inner side of the transparent films 18, 21. Fig. 16A-16D illustrate examples of demetallized mesh designs 130. As a security element that can only be read by a machine, an ohmic ring 132 can likewise be applied, as shown in fig. 17. The demetallised copy protection structure 134 according to fig. 18A to 18C may also be applied.

Fig. 19 shows a preferred embodiment of the value document 1. Fig. 20 shows a sectional view through the value document 1 in this embodiment, wherein the optical effect of the first stamp structure 20 with the metallization 22 in sections is illustrated on the basis of a first image 136 and a second image 138. The first embossed structure 20 is applied to the first transparent film 18 on the inner side directed towards the substrate body 2. The first transparent film 18 is connected to the base body 2 through the aluminum vapor deposition portion 43. The substrate body 2 and the first transparent film 18 each have the specific dimension L, B. In the present embodiment, the second transparent film 21 is not provided. It can be seen that the first image 136 perceived in the top view of the front side of the value document 1 is designed in mirror opposition to the second image 138 perceived in the top view of the back side of the value document 1. Furthermore, the two images 136, 138 differ in color saturation.

The first image 136 produced by the first stamped feature 20 may also be identified as a second image 138 viewed from the back side due to the metallization 22. In the preferred embodiment of fig. 20, the first embossing structure 20 is designed as a vertically asymmetrical structure, as is known from DE 10 2011 101 635 A1. This configuration produces different color saturation of the first image 136 and the second image 138.

It is known that an embossed structure 20 having a vertically symmetrical profile gives the same appearance when viewing the front and back sides. The imprint structure 20 having a vertically symmetric profile is, for example, a one-dimensional periodic sub-wavelength grid, such as a line grid. In the following embodiments, this vertical symmetrical contour is combined with a two-dimensional periodic grid having a vertical asymmetrical contour and exhibiting the effect set forth in fig. 19 and 20, so that an asymmetrical symbol or pattern can be visualized identically and in a forward view when the front and back of the value document 1 are observed.

Fig. 21A shows the front side (left) and the back side (right) of the value document 1 in a top view. The document of value has the substrate body 2 and the elements already described, namely terahertz features 40, 42, banknote printing 26, security strip 28 and serial number 10. A first transparent film 18 is applied on the base body 2, on the inner side of which a first embossed structure 20 is arranged. The second transparent film 21 is not provided. The structural configuration is thus the same as that shown in fig. 20. Unlike fig. 20, in this embodiment, a vertically symmetrical embossed structure is combined with a vertically asymmetrical embossed structure.

The first face 140 has a vertically symmetrical profile as does the second face 142. Here preferably a one-dimensional periodic sub-wavelength grid. Conversely, the third face 144 and the fourth face 146 have a vertically asymmetrical profile and thus produce different color saturation when the value document 1 is viewed from the front side and from the back side. The fifth side 148 emerges on the back side of the value document, being produced on the inner side of the first transparent film 18 by the first embossed structure 20 provided in the first side 140. As the appearance of the second, third and fourth faces 142, 144, 146 when the back face of the value document 1 is observed, the same applies to the sixth, seventh and eighth faces 150, 152, 154.

The outline of the first imprinting structure 20 in facets 144 and 146 is mirrored vertically, so that third facet 144 and eighth facet 154 appear (or appear) identical in color when viewed from the respective sides. The same applies to the fourth face 146 and the seventh face 152. The outline of the imprinting structure 20 in the third face 144 is chosen such that the color appears the same as the color of the first face 140, so that the first face 140 and the third face 144 together appear as a uniform-color face, while the second area 142 and the fourth area 146 differ in outline of the first imprinting structure 20 and so that the denomination "5" can appear visually. This effect is reversed when viewed from the back of the value document 1. The sixth face 150 and the eighth face 154 produce the same color impression, so that the faces formed by the two faces 150, 154 together appear as a uniform-color face, while the fifth face 148 and the seventh face 152 visibly appear the denomination "5".

Fig. 21B shows a further preferred embodiment in which different imprint structures 20 are present in a plurality of regions, thereby producing a particular optical effect. The basic structure corresponds to the structure of fig. 21A.

When viewed from the front of the value document 1, a first region 156 and a second region 158 are provided, in which a first stamp structure 20 is partially superimposed, the first stamp structure 20 producing a denomination "5". The same applies when the third area 160 and the fourth area 162 are viewed from the back side of the value document 1. The first embossed structure 20 on the inner side of the first transparent film 18 is selected such that a strong contrast in color saturation is produced when viewed from the front or back. The peripheral zone 164 is created by the first stamped feature 20 having a vertically symmetrical profile, thus creating the same type of peripheral zone 166 when viewing the back side. The first imprinting structure 20 is selected such that the surrounding region 164 and the second region 158 or the surrounding region 166 and the fourth region 162 produce the same color appearance. Thus, the view of the forward read of the denomination "5" becomes visible both when viewed from the front side and when viewed from the back side. The mirrored, oppositely imaged portion of the first region 156 disappears because in this embodiment the second region 158 has the contour of the vertical mirror image of the first region 156 and therefore disappears as a region of uniform color to the surrounding region 164.

List of reference numerals

1 Value document

2 Substrate body

4 First optically variable element

6 Second optically variable element

Third optically variable element

10 Serial number

Number 12

14 First picture element

16 Second picture element

18 First transparent film

20 First imprint structure

22 Metallizations

23, Printed image inside

24DeMet region

25 Outer printed image

26 Banknote printing section

28 Anti-fake strip

Third optically variable element

32 Fourth optically variable element

34 First terahertz feature

36 Second terahertz features

38 Third terahertz feature

40 Fourth terahertz feature

41 First region

42 Fifth terahertz feature

43 Aluminum vapor deposition section

44 Sixth terahertz feature

45 Second imprinting structure

46 Second region

47 First slit structure

48 Third region

49 Second slit structure

50 Fourth region

52 Pattern

54 First terahertz feature

56 Second terahertz features

58 Third terahertz feature

59 Schematic diagram

60 Wire grid

61 Banknote transport direction

62 Terahertz source

64 Terahertz detector

66 First graphic view

68 First nanostructures

70 Second nanostructure

72 Third nanostructure

74 Fourth nanostructure

76 Fifth nanostructure

78 Second graphic view

80 Semitransparent metal grid

82 First section

84 Second section

86 Third section

88 Light source

90 First optical Effect

92 Second optical Effect

94 Third optical Effect

96 Eyes

98 Bragg interference structure

100 First direction

102 Angle

104 Second direction

105 Wire grid of metal

106NFC element

107 Transmitted sub-wavelength grid

108 Nanometer flake

110 Coating

112DID window element

114 Coupling-in region

116 Coupling-out region

118 Magnetic coding element

120 First magnetic patch

122 Second magnetic patch

124 Third magnetic patch

126 Stamping structure

128 Magnetic coating

130 Demetallized grid design

132 Ohm dragon ring

134 Demetallized copy-proof structure

136 First image

138 Second image

140 First side

142 Second side

144 Third face

146 Fourth face

148 Fifth side

150 Th six face

152 Seventh surface

154 Eighth face

156 First region

158 Second region

160 Third region

162 Fourth region

164 Peripheral region (front)

166 Surrounding area (Back)

Width B

L length

X second coordinate direction

First coordinate directions of Y1 and Y2

Claims

1. Valuable document, said valuable document

-A front side and a back side,

A view which can be identified with the naked eye is shown in a top view from the front,

-Having a specific dimension in top view, and

Having a base body (2) which has the specific dimensions in a top view and is connected to a first transparent film (18) having an inner side and an outer side such that the base body (2) rests on the inner side of the first transparent film (18) such that the base body (2) is directed towards the rear side and the outer side of the first transparent film (18) is directed towards the front side, wherein,

-The first transparent film (18) also has said specific dimensions in top view, and

-A view identifiable from the front surface is produced by a metallized first embossing structure (20) arranged on the inner side of a first transparent film (18),

It is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

-A first security element which is only machine-readable is arranged on the inner side of the first transparent film (18).

2. The value document as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the second transparent film (21), which likewise has the specified dimensions and has an inner side and an outer side, rests with its inner side against the base body (2) so that the outer side of the second transparent film (21) points towards the rear side of the value document (1), wherein,

-A view identifiable from the rear surface is produced by a metallized second imprint structure (45),

-Said metallized second embossed structure (45) is arranged on the inner side of the second transparent film (21), and

-A second security element which can only be machine-readable is arranged on the inner side of the second transparent film (21).

3. The value document according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and/or the second security element influence the penetrating radiation by terahertz radiation.

4. A value document as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first and/or the second security element exhibit a resonance effect for electromagnetic terahertz radiation incident in a predetermined frequency range.

5. A value document as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first and/or second security element has a position-and/or orientation-dependent electrical conductivity.

6. A value document according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first and/or the second security element has an NFC element (106).

7. A value document as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first and/or the second security element has a grating structure, which acts as an optical filter.

8. The value document according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first and/or the second security element has a waveguide body with a coupling-in region (114) and a coupling-out region (116).

9. A value document as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and/or second security element has a magnetic coding, the magnetic coding having a magnetic coding element.

10. A value document as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first and/or the second security element has a conductivity which is dependent on an externally applied magnetic field.

11. A value document according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the substrate body (2) is transparent.

12. Value document according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first stamp structure (20) has a sectionally vertically asymmetrical contour and a sectionally vertically symmetrical contour.

13. A value document as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a conventional security element is applied to the front and/or rear face.

14. A value document as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the value document is a banknote, a check, a credit card or other payment card, a certificate card.

15. A method for producing a value document, which has a front side and a rear side, has a specific dimension in a plan view and shows a visually recognizable view in a plan view from the front side, wherein,

-Connecting the substrate body (2) having said specific dimensions in top view with the first transparent film (18) also having said specific dimensions in top view and having an inner side and an outer side such that the substrate body (2) rests on the inner side of the first transparent film (18) such that the substrate body (2) is directed towards said rear side and the outer side of the first transparent film (18) is directed towards said front side, and

The view identifiable from the front is produced by a metallized first embossing structure (20) arranged on the inside of a first transparent film (18),

It is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

16. Method according to claim 15, characterized in that a second transparent film (21) which likewise has the specified dimensions and has an inner side and an outer side is applied with its inner side against the substrate body (2) so that the outer side of the second transparent film (21) is directed towards the rear side of the value document (1),

Wherein a second embossing structure (45) is arranged on the inner side of the second transparent film (21), by means of which a view identifiable from the rear is produced, and a second security element which can only be read by a machine is arranged on the inner side of the second transparent film (21).

17. A method according to claim 15, wherein said document of value is a banknote, check, credit card or other payment card, identification card.