Chinese Man Recovers Cash Left Exposed to Elements for Weeks

According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, a man identified as Mr. Cui from Liaoning Province, China, recently faced a significant financial ordeal. While away on business, Mr. Cui inadvertently left 100,000 yuan (approximately 500,000 Thai Baht) on his home balcony. Upon returning after more than two weeks, he discovered the banknotes had been severely damaged by exposure to heavy rain and intense sunlight, causing them to stick together in a moldy, hardened mass.

On July 23, Mr. Cui sought assistance from a local bank. A team of six bank employees spent over two hours meticulously restoring the currency. The process involved carefully rehydrating the paper fibers with damp cloths and water sprays before using tweezers and small blades to separate the individual notes. Once separated, the staff cleaned the mold, repaired tears, and air-dried the bills to verify their authenticity.

For residents and travelers, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of securing valuables, especially in regions with unpredictable weather. While the bank was able to salvage the funds in this instance, the process was described as exceptionally difficult. It remains to be confirmed whether all 100,000 yuan were fully recovered in a condition acceptable for circulation, as the report notes the complexity of the restoration process.