On 13 December 2012, the governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Barry Whiteside, has show Fiji new $5 polymer banknote and a $2 coin that will replace the $2 note. The obverse of the note will show an image of a beautiful green kadavu parrot found in the misty highlands of Kadavu. The design of the new $10, $20, $50 and $100 dollars banknote are also reveal by the governor.
This is the first time after 78 years, Fiji banknotes will not include an image of British Monarch. They started with King George V in 1934 and are now ending with Queen Elizabeth II. The Reserve Bank obtained approval from the Cabinet to carry out changes in their banknote design on July 2010. This approval also included the replacement of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s effigy with abstract or non-portrait designs.
Fiji new notes from now onwards will feature Fiji's flora and fauna. The selection of the all important subjects and designs for our currency was the job of the Currency Design Committee (CDC) which was established in July 2010. The CDC in the early stages of its deliberations, considered a number of options including historical landmarks, Fiji’s Coat of Arms, various industries, national heritage items and unique flora and fauna.
For the first time, the Reserve Bank has produced a limited edition all-denomination set of coloured coins. This is a one-of-a-kind coin set depicting the flora and fauna designs in their natural colours on the front of each coin. Specially packaged uncirculated coin sets will also be available for those who just want to own a piece of history.
For the notes, collectors can either buy specially packaged individual denominations or the full set with matching serial numbers. Uncut banknote sheets of 20 notes and 25 notes will also be available.
The coins were designed and minted by the Royal Canadian Mint and the banknotes designed & printed by De La Rue.
For a complete list of the currency complete with pictures and video, you can read my post; Fiji new currency pictures & video.
