Swiss blockchain smart card wallet maker Tangem will reportedly issue physical notes for the Marshall Islands’ national digital currency, the Sovereign (SOV).

The physical banknote will be embedded with a secure blockchain-enabled microprocessor to combine the familiar advantages of paper banknotes with the security of blockchain technology.

In an announcement made on January 28, Tangem said the physical SOV will circulate as legal tender alongside the US Dollar as the country’s national currency. The SOV banknotes are also “to ensure all citizens of the Marshall Islands have fair and equal access to their digital currency, whether or not they have internet connection”.

Meant to be be fully transparent, “100% secure”, and decentralized, Tangem added that the physical SOV represent a “controllable mechanism” of currency issuance and circulation for the country.

“We are excited to bring in Tangem as another reputable and forward-thinking partner on our journey to create the world’s first sovereign digital currency,” said Minister David Paul, Minister-in-Assistance to the President of the Marshall Islands.

Cointelegraph noted that the decision to issue a national crypto initially sparked controversies within the country, and with the likes of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The IMF had advised against the proposed plan, claiming it could pose significant impact to its financial integrity and standing with foreign banks.

This is not the first time Tangem has printed crypto notes. Back in May 2018, it produced 10,000 physical Bitcoin notes of various denominations in a pilot program. Earlier this month, TheCryptoSight also reported that SBI Group, Japan’s financial services heavyweight, is investing $15 million into Tangem.