Geek Chic or Not: Swiss Introduce Science-Themed Currency

The Swiss National Bank held a design competition this year, asking designers to consider the theme "Switzerland open to the world." The winning design by Manuel Krebs, a Zurich-based graphic designer, depicts some unusual themes, to say the least. On the 100 Swiss Francs bill is an embryo. The 200 Swiss Francs bill shows a picture of the AIDS virus. And the 1000 Swiss Francs bill has a picture of a skull. "Think of having a fun dinner with friends at a nice restaurant," says blogger Bruno Guissani, "and then hand[ing] over to the waiter a 200-Francs bill representing the AIDS virus."