Tonga Introduces New Series of Banknotes into Circulation

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The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) unveils new series of banknotes featuring Polymer substrates and enhanced security features. On December 4, the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) marked a significant milestone with the launch of Tonga's new series of banknotes. The chosen date for the release holds special significance as it commemorates the birthday of King Tupou I, a key modernizer who reigned from 1845 to 1893. Produced in collaboration with De La Rue, the new banknote series incorporates both paper and polymer substrates, introducing updated security elements to enhance durability and deter counterfeiting. This redesign represents Tonga's first use of polymer in its currency since 2015. The series comprises 2-, 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, and 100-pa’anga notes, with the colors remaining unchanged. Notably, the 5- and 10-pa’anga denominations have transitioned to polymer due to its proven durability, particularly for extensively circulated notes. With one pa’anga being e...
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Sir Vivian Richards on $2 Banknote for ECCB's 40th Anniversary

In honor of the esteemed West Indian cricketer Sir Vivian Richards, a commemorative $2 banknote featuring the image of the former batting star has been produced and is set to circulate throughout Eastern Caribbean countries. Starting on December 6, these notes will be available at banks across the Eastern Caribbean. The tribute currency was unveiled during an event marking the 40th anniversary of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank in Antigua, Sir Vivian Richards’ birthplace.

Meanwhile, Sir Vivian Richards expressed his gratitude for the recognition.

“To be honored in such a manner is something dreams are made of,” Richards stated, as reported by islandpressbox.com. He was presented with the inaugural $2 bill featuring his likeness.

Camillo Gonsalves, Chairman of the ECCB Monetary Council, emphasized that individuals prioritizing financial gain over representing West Indies or enhancing West Indies Cricket may not attain the same level of success or stature as Sir Vivian.

The front of the EC$2 commemorative banknote proudly displays the image of the legendary former West Indies cricketer and living National Hero of Antigua and Barbuda, Sir Vivian Richards. Meanwhile, the reverse side of the banknote showcases a depiction of the Map of the Lesser Antilles, accompanied by illustrations of fish, coral, and turtles.

“Today, new forms and locations of apartheid arise, morphing into genocide, and our sportspeople remain silent. However, Sir Viv was never silent. Now, we have a modern generation of cricketers so consumed with money that they overlook the significance of the unity of the West Indies cricket team. Those who pursued wealth in apartheid South Africa, those who pursue wealth today, will never find themselves depicted on currency as Sir Viv does today,” quoted Camillo Gonsalves.

Richards is acknowledged as one of the premier batters of his era and is revered as one of cricket’s all-time greats. Having played 121 Tests and 187 One-Day Internationals for the Men in Maroon, he maintained an average of over 50 in Tests and over 47 in ODIs. He also captained the team, leading them to 27 victories, and under his leadership, the Windies never lost a Test series.

The commemorative banknote holds legal tender status and is slightly smaller than other EC polymer banknotes. It is accessible at all commercial banks within the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union starting from December 6, 2023. It's important to note that this particular banknote cannot be acquired through ATMs. Anticipated by collectors, many enthusiasts eagerly await the opportunity to add this unique piece to their collections.

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