Abstract: An apparatus for collecting banknotes in a vending machine is disclosed. The apparatus includes a removable cassette having a banknote intake opening, the cassette being closed and locked automatically when removed from the apparatus. The cassette also shows slot-like wall openings for the insertion of thin actuating fingers for pushing previously collected banknotes away from the intake opening to provide a free space for the next banknote to be fed into the cassette. After said next banknote has been received in the cassette, the fingers are withdrawn, such that the previously collected banknotes are put together with the banknote received due to the action of spring means in the cassette.