NYT Mini · 7-Across · 5 letters
First country to use paper money, way back in the 7th century NYT Mini crossword clue
Editorially reviewed October 2, 2026
Answer · 5 letters
CHINA
The clue's seventh-century hint points to China. The Bank of England dates China's first use of banknotes to around that century, and the British Museum describes early paper money in Tang-dynasty China. The five-square country name is CHINA.
Different crossing letters? Check another fit →Use the date to locate the country
The Bank of England identifies China as the first country to use banknotes around the seventh century. That makes the clue a historical-country question, not a request for a currency name; the five boxes take C-H-I-N-A.
Do not confuse early use with a surviving note
The British Museum describes Tang-dynasty paper money, including convenient 'flying coins' used to move value without hauling heavy coins. A much later physical banknote can still be the oldest example in a particular collection; that does not make its issuing country the answer to this clue.
References behind this explanation
- October 2 NYT Mini numbered clue and answer
- Bank of England: how money changed over time
- British Museum: Tang-dynasty paper money
These references support the meaning or background; they are not publisher endorsements.
Where this clue appeared
7-Across in NYT Mini puzzle for October 2, 2026.
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