Imagine a banknote that is not just a means of payment, but a true calling card for a country. A banknote that tells the story of people, nature, and cultural heritage. This is what the new polymer money of the Falkland Islands has become. They combine modern technology, environmental sustainability, and the vibrant symbolism of the archipelago. These banknotes have already attracted the attention of numismatists worldwide and have instilled pride in the local community.

Banknote description

B223 (PNL): 5 pounds Colour: red. Obverse: English text, five black-browed albatrosses in flight, a map of the Falkland Islands, King Charles III, coat of arms. Reverse: English text, five species of penguins, the national flower – pale maiden, a mountain on Steeple Jason Island. Issue date: 14 August 2025, signature No. 10, prefix A.

B224 (PNL): 10 pounds Colour: green. The design is similar to the 5-pound banknote, with the same motifs of albatrosses, penguins, the national flower, and the Steeple Jason landscape. Issue date: 14 August 2025, signature No. 10, prefix A.

B225 (PNL): 20 pounds Colour: brown. It maintains the single style of the series with the portrait of the monarch, coat of arms, albatrosses, penguins, and the island landscape. Issue date: 14 August 2025, signature No. 10, prefix A.

History of creation

The banknote redesign was a response to a real need — a shortage of 5-pound specimens in 2024. However, the process was not limited to a technical solution. It turned into a large-scale public project: the islanders themselves chose the symbols that most accurately reflect their uniqueness. "These banknotes are a celebration of our nature," said the Falkland Islands government. And Richard Hislop emphasized that nine rounds of consultations with artists and numismatists made it possible to create a product that is equally valuable for both the economy and culture.

Technical and economic aspects

The use of SAFEGUARD® polymer material has a number of advantages: the banknotes are resistant to wear, moisture, and dirt, which extends their service life and reduces printing costs. The economic stability of the currency is ensured by its peg to the pound sterling. For collectors, the government offers limited series of banknotes with a 20% premium, available only by personal order in Stanley. The introduction of the new banknotes is part of a broader strategy to modernize the islands' payment system. Polymer banknotes not only increase security but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the need for frequent replacement of worn-out specimens. The transition to polymer is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, as the cost of producing the currency will decrease and its durability will increase.

International recognition

The 5-pound banknote (B223) has been nominated by the International Bank Note Society (IBNS) for the "Banknote of the Year 2025" award for artistic skill and innovative design. This nomination highlights the successful combination of a royal portrait with elements of local nature, including the image of a king penguin as a security feature.

Significance for the Falkland Islands

The new banknotes are not only a practical tool but also a symbol of the identity of the Falkland Islands. The images of local fauna and flora — penguins, albatrosses, the pale maiden — emphasize the ecological uniqueness of the region. In the context of global challenges such as climate change, this design is a gesture in support of biodiversity conservation. For local residents, the new banknotes have become a source of pride, and for numismatists and collectors, an attractive object for investment.

Vitalii Cherniuk (IBNS 13299-R)

CEO World Banknote Store