Coronavirus $20 note conspiracy theory: TikTok user claims to have found a hidden COVID-19 symbol on banknote
- The new $20 note features a symbol almost identical to a coronavirus cell
- The note began circulating in October 2019 - months before virus was identified
- It is actually a box-leaf wattle, which is native to Australia, featured on the note
- Here’s how to help people impacted by Covid-19
A TikTok user has noticed the new $20 bank note in Australia features a symbol almost identical to a coronavirus cell.
The Royal Australian Mint began circulating the new note in October 2019, months before the virus was even identified in Wuhan, China - the original epicentre.
But a TikTok fan by the name of Jaydan noticed the similarities between the design and scientific images of coronavirus.
The COVID-19 cell is widely depicted as being round with small spike-like branches protruding from the main body.
The COVID-19 cell is widely depicted as being round with small spike-like branches protruding from the main body
While a similar looking symbol is featured on the note, it actually represents a box-leaf wattle, which is native to Australia.
Box-leaf wattle, also known as acacia buxifolia, is found in eastern parts of Australia and is a shrub which produces dainty yellow flowers.
The note also includes a picture of the laughing kookaburra, convict-turned-merchant Mary Reibey and Reverend John Flynn.
Even after the theory was debunked by another user who recognised its true meaning, others commented agreeing the timing was suspicious.
A TikTok fan by the name of Jaydan noticed the similarities between the design and scientific drawings of coronavirus
Box-leaf wattle, also known as acacia buxifolia, is found in eastern parts of Australia and is a shrub which produces dainty yellow flowers
'It's on the $20 note because its 2020,' one person wrote.
'$20 is like 2020... That means they predicted the future,' another added.
COVID-19 was first identified in Wuhan in December 2019, but rapidly spread to almost every corner of the globe.
Entire nations - including Australia - have been forced into lockdown in an attempt to slow the spread of the deadly respiratory virus, which has so far claimed the lives of at least 270,000 people globally and infected 3.9 million.
There are 6,900 known cases of coronavirus in Australia, including at least 6,063 who have already recovered and 97 people who died.
The 'coronavirus cell' - which is actually a box-leaf wattle - is pictured in the bottom right corner and through the middle of the note
There are 6,900 known cases of coronavirus in Australia, including at least 6,063 who have already recovered and 97 people who died
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