oceania

...Tonga - nd2014 Specimen Reprints Of 2008 Series Three Notes

2026-09-03T04:00:00.000+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Here are the three reprints of 10, 20 and 50 pa'anga specimen notes. This series was first introduced in 2008, and since then reprints were issued in 2012 for the 1, 2, 5, and 10 pa'anga notes. The notes that I have posted here are considered as the third prints since this series was first introduced in 2008, however, for these reprints only 10, 20 and 50 pa'anga were issued. It should be noted that both the 20 and 50 pa'anga were not included in the 2012 reprints, however, this is the third issue for the 10 pa'anga since 2008. No reprint for the 100 pa'anga has been reported or sighted.

The signature for this series are:-

Prime Minister - Siale 'Ataongo Kaho, Lord Tu'ivakano (tenure 2010-2014)

Minister of Finance - Lisiate Akolo (tenure 2012-2013)

Ten Pa;anga

nd2014, 152mm x 71mm

Front - On the front, it featured the King George Tupou V (b.1948-2012) in full military uniform. King George Tupou V's birth name was Siaosi Taufa'ahau Manumataongo Tuku'aho Tupou. King Tupou V was born in 1948 and died in Queen Mary Hospital in Hong Kong in 2012 at the age of 63 years old. He inherited the throne in 2006 following the death of his father, King Táufa'áhau Tupou lV (b.1918-2006). King George Tupou V was never married but did have a daughter from his previous relationship. However, due to the Constitution of Tonga that only allowed children born of a royal marriage, she was ineligible to the throne. King George Tupou V was succeeded by his younger brother, Tupou VI on 18.03.2012.

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Back - The Royal Tombs of Tonga. The Royal Tombs is also known as langi and is a significant cultural and historical site. The site consists of atone burial structures for the Tongan royalty. There are two primary sites and are located in Lapaha on Tongatapu. Tongatapu was the ancient capital. The other one is located in Mala'ekula in the capital city of Nuku'alofa. This is the current site where the royal family members are buried when they are gone. This note depicts the current burial site of the Royal members.

Twenty Pa;anga

nd2014, 150.5mm x 70.5mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Back - The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) building in Nuku'alofa. The NRBT is a five story building and is the tallest building in Tonga. This building was built in 1994 and this building first featured on the 20 pa'anga 2008 note series. The building is also partly occupied by the Embassy of Japan.

Fifty Pa;anga

nd2014, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Back - Royal Palace situated in Nuku'Alofa, the capital city of Tonga. This wooden palace was built in 1867 and is located only a short distance from the Pacific ocean. The palace is the official residence of the King of Tonga. Whilst the Palace is not open to the public, it can be viewed from the waterfront and also from the main entrance separated by the gate. This gate was added to the property in the early 2000s after some people on lorries/trucks invaded the property compound. The Royal Palace building was previously depicted on the back of the 10 pa'anga notes.

Below are the notes issued for this 2008 series

nd2008 - full set 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 pa'anga;

nd2012 - 1, 2, 5 and 10 pa'anga; and

nd2014 - 10, 20 and 50 pa'anga.

...Papua New Guines - 5 And 20 Kina nd2024 Prints

2026-07-24T04:00:00.000+14:00

Independent State of Papua New Guinea

Bank of Papua New Guinea (Est.1973)

Currency - Kina (PGK)

It is believed that only two notes were issued with the year date of (nd)2024, and here I have posted both the notes. No change to the designs and these are the reduced sizes series, first introduced in 2016.

Five Kina

Front - National Parliament House of Papua New Guinea located in Port Moresby. The parliament house was officially opened on 08.08.1984 by Prince Charles (now King Charles The lll). On the right is the Coat of Arms and on the far left is a see-through image of a Bird of Paradise.

Signatures

Governor - Elizabeth W Genia (tenure 2023-)

Secretary, Department of Treasury - Andrew F Oaeke (tenure 2021-)

Date - (nd)2024

Sizes - 130mm x 70.5mm

Back - On the back, it features traditional currencies like a Hombuli Mask, Kina shell and necklace.

Twenty Kina

Signatures

Governor - Elizabeth W Genia (tenure 2023-)

Secretary, Department of Treasury - Andrew F Oaeke (tenure 2021-)

Date - (nd)2024

Dimensions - 140mm x 70mm

Back - A boar head and conches

...Western Samoa - ND2020 Series Numismatic Reprints

2026-07-20T04:00:00.000+14:00

Western Samoa

(1914-1997)

Bank of Western Samoa, (Est 1959-1975)

Monetary Board of Western Samoa (Est.1975-1984)

Currency - Pound (until 1967), Tala (WST)

Here, I have posted 8 notes all reportedly issued in (nd)2020. There are reprints from previous issues but not sure if these were newly printed banknotes or these were derived from reminders of old stocks. All notes are printed with watermark features, presumably the same as those original issues. I have a very strong feeling that these are newly reprints and not from the old stock.

According to a letter dated 08.06.2020 and signed by the bank governor, Maiava Atalina Ainuu Enari, these notes were released to a company called Van Reijen International Agencies Limited, a Coins, Banknotes and postage stamps dealer in Guernsey. In the letter, it also stated that these notes were released mainly for numismatic purposes. It looks like this company in Guernsey has the sole distribution rights on these reprints. I believe I have a full set of these Samoa numismatic reprints here.

Maiava Atalina Ainuu Enari is the current Bank Governor of the Central Bank of Samoa and she has been in this role since August 2011.

In order to differentiate these reprints from those issued earlier is the letter prefix printed on these reprints. Most of the previous original issues were printed without a letter prefix. For these reprints, they are printed with either a letter 'S' or 'T', the prefix 'V' was also reported. I have seen one note with the letter 'W' too. Unfortunately, I do not have any of the original issues in my collection, as if I do, I would compare these notes side by side. The signatures on these notes are the same as those initially issued for circulation. Obviously, and I believe, most or all of them are no longer with us today. It would be a miracle if any of them are still around.

Whilst these are reprints for collectors, I am not sure if the notes here are still legal tender in Samoa. As these are reprints, the notes are all printed with the words 'Legal Tender' on it. I also understand that all Samoa notes issued in Tala values are still legal tender.

The first three reprint notes are from the 1963 series of 10 shillings, £1 and £5. In 1967, it changed the £sd system to decimal. The £sd currency is an archaic system and it can be a bit time consuming in working out the calculation, and to improve economic efficiency and to align with global trading partners, the decimal system was adopted. Interesting thing is that the British did not convert to the decimal currency system until 1971. Australia did that on Valentine's day in 1966, both Samoa and New Zealand on 10.06.1967, Tonga on 03.04.1967 and Fiji on 15.01.1969. Countries like Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea were using Australia currency before adopting its own as of today.

Now you must be wondering why I buy these notes? I am just wondering this myself and I do not have an answer for you. Is this a total waste of money? Perhaps it is as some of these may not be worth anything. I did not get these when it was first announced until recently. Whilst these are numismatic items that should or should not be considered as collectibles for notaphilists, they are all printed with strong watermarks security features (I believe) like those original real money. If these are actually the same as those originally issued in the 1960s with the same security features, then credit must be given to the bank. This is much better than those so called 'Reproduction' of banknotes that you find selling in the market. My original intention was to ignore them but changed my mind as my aim is to collect all modern banknotes issued in the Pacific regions. Having these original notes issued in the 1960s in an uncirculated collection would be a dream. However, getting them may cost a fair bit, so instead having these reprints is my second best.🤣

I believe uncut sheets are also available but I do not have the details, and I have no intention to get them, not even one sheet. For them, I believe it is a total waste of money, money that I can channel into other banknotes that I am interested in.

Ten Shillings (One Tala conversion)

Front - Coat of Arms on the left. Fishermen at work. Sea and landscape in the back.

Manager - N.O. Maitland

Date - nd2020 (reprint of 1963 series)

Watermark - Repeating alphabet letters BWS (Bank of Western Samoa )

Sizes - 139mm x 77mm

Back - A thatched hut in the center by the beach. Thatched huts in Samoa are built mainly for residential living, coastal relaxation, and are also used for low-budget visitor accommodation. They are designed to provide shade, cool airflow, and protection from rain. A thatched hut in Samoa is called 'fale'. Coconut trees on both sides of the hut.

One Pound (Two Tala conversion)

Front - A large Coat of Arms in the center. Coconut trees on both sides with sunrise or sunset. I would take these as sunrise on one side and then sun set on the other. Coconut plantations are a vital part of Samoa's rural economy as about 30% of its land area is used for cultivation.

Manager - N.O. Maitland

Date - nd2020 (reprint of 1963 series)

Watermark - Repeating alphabet letters BWS (Bank of Western Samoa )

Sizes - 158mm x 82mm

Back - A thatched hut on center right with a beach scene with coconut trees and a boat with a person in the background.

Five Pounds (Ten Tala conversion)

Front - A billowing flag of Samoa. Arms on lower right. A Kava bowl on the left. In my book, this is a large sized note, just like all other old banknotes.

Manager - N.O. Maitland

Date - nd2020 Reprint (reprint of 1963 series)

Watermark - Repeating alphabet letters BWS (Bank of Western Samoa )

Sizes - 167mm x 67.5mm

Back - Banana trees on the left, coconut trees in the center left and cocoa trees on the right. In the background is a sense of a beach and landscape in the distance. Samoa produces about 22,000+ metric tons of bananas annually and mainly exports them to New Zealand. For coconut cultivation, it mainly exports organic virgin coconut oil and copra. In general, the cocoa beans production is considered relatively very small, as it accounts for roughly 0.01% global production. These beans are also used to manufacture a Samoan traditional drink called 'koko Samoa', a niche export market exists, mainly to New Zealand, Australia and the United States.

One Tala

Front - Arms on the left. Fishermen at work. Sea and landscape in the back. As Samoa is a small nation in the Pacific ocean, fishing represents approximately 3.5% to its national GDP. Small-scale fisheries and aquaculture provide substantial economic value to the nation, estimated around T$70 million annually. It should also be noted that about 25% of the Samoan households are involved in fishing, one way or the other.

Senior Manager - K.W. Taylor

Date - nd2020 (reprint of 1967 series)

Watermark - Repeating alphabet letters BWS (Bank of Western Samoa )

Sizes - 138mm x 77mm

Back - A thatched hut in the center by the beach. Coconut trees on both sides of the hut.

Two Tala

Front - A large Arms in the center. Coconut trees on both sides with sunrise or sunset.

Senior Manager - K.W. Taylor

Date - nd1967 reprint (reprint of 1967 series)

Watermark - Repeating alphabet letters BWS (Bank of Western Samoa )

Sizes - 144mm x 77mm

Back - A thatched hut on center right with a beach scene with coconut trees and a boat with a person in the background. This scene looks very calm and relaxing.

Ten Tala

Front - A billowing flag of Samoa. Arms on lower right. A Kava bowl on the left.

Senior Manager - K.W. Taylor

Date - nd2020 (reprint of 1967 series)

Watermark - Repeating alphabet letters BWS (Bank of Western Samoa )

Sizes - 150mm x 76mm

Back - Banana trees on the left, coconut trees in the center left and cocoa trees on the right. In the background is a sense of a beach and landscape in the distance. This scene or design is good enough as a picture hanging on the wall.

One Tala

Front - A billowing flag of Samoa in the center left. Two women weaving using pandanus leaves. In the center is the landscape of the sea and mountains.

Chairman - Filipo Vaovasamanaia

Date - nd2020 (reprint of 1980 series)

Watermark - A head of a man facing right

Sizes - 140mm x 72mm

Back - A billowing flag of Samoa in the center right. Two fishermen at work. Below the flag is the Coat of Arms of Samoa.

One Tala (Specimen)

Date - nd2020 reprint

Watermarks - A head of a man facing right. 5 x 1 numeral numbers (2 large and 5 small) under UV light

Sizes - 140mm x 72mm

Note - Only the front is printed with the word 'Specimen' but not on the back.

Two Tala (Specimen)

Front - A billowing flag on the left and a woodcarver to the right. In the center is the landscape of the sea and mountains.

As you can see, this reprint note or 2 tala is printed with the word 'Specimen' in the center, like the one tala posted above. Why, I am not sure. The note has a normal 6-digit serial number and the letter prefix is 'S'. I understand that no Samoan paper banknotes issued have been demonetised yet and as normal numismatic reprints for this note without the word Specimen are also available, then why the authority also print this note as specimen note, when this note was issued for collectors only and not intended for normal circulation. Even if this normal note has the face value of 2 tala and is legal tender, it is very unlikely that anyone would cash this in as the cost of getting such note is much higher than the face value itself. It should be noted that on the front is printed with the word 'Specimen' and none on the reverse.

Minister of Finance - Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi

Date - nd2020 (1985)

Watermarks - A head of a man facing right. 5 x 2 numeral numbers (2 large and 5 small) under UV light

Sizes - 140mm x 72mm

Back - A thatched hut on center right with a beach scene with coconut trees. Only the front is printed with the word 'Specimen' but not on the back.

...New Zealand - $10 1990 Commemorative Sequicentennial Anniversary of Waitangi Treaty 1840-1990 (150th Year)

2026-07-13T04:00:00.000+14:00

New Zealand

Aotearoa

Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ est.1934)

Te Putea Matua

Currency : Dollar (NZD)

I have waited for more than 30+ years and now decided to see if I can complete this set. Unfortunately, I am still short of two notes.

Here, I have posted 8 out of the 10 notes for the 1990 $10 commemorative notes celebrating the 150th year of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi (1840-1990). These notes were first released for circulation on 14.08.1992. This is the first time that the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has issued a legal tender banknote commemorating a historical event in the country.

Back in the early 90s, this note was marketed in Australia by the Royal Australian Mint, and I recall, the 2-in-One Uncut sheets were made available but I cannot remember if other uncut sheets were offered too. I am pretty sure that only the uncut sheets were offered and not the single notes. As if not, I would have bought them too. I then purchased the 2-in-One uncut sheet only, as it was selling quite expensive back in the 90s. Since then, I made no attempt to get the rest of the series (single notes and all other prefixes) until now. Despite the hefty price I have paid for these single notes, it does give me some satisfaction that I now have 8 notes in my collection. To buy them separately could cost me even more and it may also be a challenge to find them available for sale in the market too. As you can see, I am still missing the two notes printed with the prefixes of CCC and DDD.

The Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) was first signed on 06.02.1840 by Captain William Hobson (1795-1842), who represented the British Crown and then by Northern Maori chiefs at Waitangi. The treaty was written in both English and Maori. The Waitangi Treaty is a foundational agreement in New Zealand which established a partnership between the British Crown and Maori chiefs. It is considered as a constitutional document that guides the relationship between the Crown (the British) and Maori. After the initial signing, the document was then traveled all over New Zealand in the next few months to have it signed by all other chiefs in New Zealand. In all, approximately 540 Maori chiefs signed the treaty, including 13 women. Most of them signed on the Maori version of the treaty, with 39 signed on the English version. As per the name of the treaty, Waitangi is located in the northern part and on the right side of North Island and is about 230 km north of Auckland. Waitangi is not a name of a town or city but rather a locality/settlement and is located in the Bay of Islands. The closest town to Waitangi is Paihia, which is connected by a bridge near the mouth of the Waitangi River estuary. Paihia is a very small coastal town with a population of less than 2000 people.

New Zealand was first visited by the Dutch in 1942. In 1769, Captain James Cook arrived on his first of his three voyages. Since then, New Zealand has been visited by explorers, sailors, missionaries and traders. The Treaty of Waitangi dated 06.02.1840 is considered the official date of colonisation of New Zealand by the British. The treaty was intended to create unity between the British and Maori, but different understandings of the two versions and breaches have led to ongoing controversies and disagreements until today. According to the Maori, the treaty grants the Crown/British governance over the land while acknowledging Maori authority, while the English version gives the Crown/British full sovereignty.

A total of 1.0m pieces were printed for this series with 10 prefixes* issued. Each prefix was printed with 100,000 pieces each with the exception of AAA and BBB prefixes. For the AAA prefix, only 96,000 printed but none were originally issued in single notes. For the BBB prefix, a total of 104,000 issued with 19,450 released in a cardboard sleeve as numismatic products and sold for NZ$17.85 per set. In addition to Prefix BBB, Prefix CCC notes were also sold in a cardboard sleeve as well and it was reported that only 500 sets (CCC 000001-CCC 000500) were made available. As the AAA prefix notes were initially sold as uncut sheets, and later those unsold sheets were returned to RBNZ, and then the bank cut these unsold sheets into individual notes and released them back into circulation. If you have got one in single, it could be possible that it came from the uncut sheet not cut by the bank. I have seen a few of these AAA prefix notes offered by dealers here and most of them are just badly cut and you can tell that it was not officially cut by the RBNZ. As for the uncut sheets, so far, I have sighted the sheets of 32, 16, 4 and 2.

Below are the list of prefixes printed for this series:-

AAA - s/n 000001 to 096000 (initially uncut sheets only);

BBB - s/n 000001 to 104000 (19,450 sets in cardboard sleeve);

CCC - s/n 000001 to 100000 (also issued in cardboard sleeve);

DDD - s/n 000001 to 100000;

CWB - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Countrywide Banking Corporation Ltd);

FTC - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Farmers Trading Company Ltd);

MBL - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Mobil Oil Corporation);

RNZ - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Radio New Zealand);

RXX - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Rank Xerox); and

TNZ - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Television New Zealand TVNZ).

In addition to the above, 10 pieces were printed with the prefix of NZ* but used as specimen notes only. It was also reported that no replacement prefixes were printed for this series. Whilst we can confirm that the first prefix for this serial is AAA, would you say the last prefix is TNZ, or there is no last prefix as every one printed is just as unique as the others.

Based on the quantity of 1.0m pieces printed, and in my opinion, this is not a large quantity issue especially for the denomination of $10, which is usually a popular denomination circulating in an economy, just like those notes of $1, $2, $5 and perhaps $20 as well. Back in the early 1990s, New Zealand had a population of about 3.30m people and for that and with a quantity of 1.0m is not considered a large issue.

I have waited for more than 30+ years and now decided to see if I can complete this set.

Here, I have posted 8 notes for the 1990 $10 commemorative notes celebrating the 150th year of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi (1840-1990). These notes were first released for circulation on 14.08.1992. This is the first time that the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has issued a legal tender banknote commemorating a historical event in the country.

Below are the list of all prefixes printed for this series:-

AAA - s/n 000001 to 096000 (initially uncut sheets only);

BBB - s/n 000001 to 104000 (19,450 sets in cardboard sleeve);

CCC - s/n 000001 to 100000 (also issued in cardboard sleeve);

DDD - s/n 000001 to 100000;

CWB - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Countrywide Banking Corporation Ltd);

FTC - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Farmers Trading Company Ltd);

MBL - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Mobil Oil Corporation);

RNZ - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Radio New Zealand);

RXX - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Rank Xerox); and

TNZ - s/n 000001 to 100000 (Television New Zealand TVNZ).

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand also put together the first 1000 sets all with matching serial numbers (#000001 - 001000) for sale to collectors. Report stated that 7 notes with prefixes DDD, CWB, FTC, MBL, RNZ, RXX and TNZ with matching serial numbers were sold as numismatic products. The notes with prefixes of AAA, BBB and CCC were not included. However, I have only six notes with matching serial numbers. These 1000 sets were first released to collectors in July 1990. I wonder if the RBNZ managed to sell all these 1000 sets issued and if not, were there any unsold sets redistributed back as single notes for circulation. The bank, I believe, has a habit of either redistributing unsold numismatic products or destroying them completely to save storage space. Whilst I am not entirely clear as to why the bank printed these unusual six prefixes that each represented a business entity in New Zealand, however, it was believed (according to a dealer) that these companies were involved in the sponsoring for this commemorative $10 series which would allow them to promote their businesses/brands in the country with their business acronym printed on the note as letter prefixes. In terms of how successful these promoting exercises were may not be known unless they have conducted research on this after the release of the notes back then. I honestly doubt anyone would have noticed this unless you are a collector or the employees of these companies involved, as normal people would have care less. Apology for my negative comment as the truth always hurts!😁.

Ten Dollars AAA Two-in-One Uncut Sheet

155.5mm x 157mm

Front - The Portrait of Queen Elizabeth the Second (1926-2022). This portrait was taken in 1977 by Peter Grugeon, The Queen was 51 years old when this portrait was taken. The design of this note on the front is very similar to the $10 circulating at that time, albeit the colour looks a bit lighter blue and the commemorative logo is added next to the Queen's portrait.

Governor - Donald Thomas Brash (tenure 1988-2002)

Date - 1990 (Commemorative logo)

Watermark - Captain James Cook (b.1728-1779)

Printer - Bradbury Wilkinson & Co (De La Rue & Co Ltd since 1986)

Dimensions - 155.5mm x 157mm

Back - The design on the back is completely new and it depicts an image of the signing of the treaty by one of the Maori chiefs in front of the British Officer. The design came from a bas-relief by a British born sculptor, Alfred Drury. This design was previously printed on New Zealand 10 shilling notes. From the design, I personally feel that this treaty signing was a bit intimidating to the Maoris. I do not know who that sitting British officer was, but one can only assume that would be Captain William Hobson. Whilst he was sitting with both his hands resting on the hilt of a British Army Officer ceremonial sword, the Maori chief was not and had to stand and bend over to sign the document. This is clearly showing (to me imo) that this was done with intimidation against the Maori. On the right of the note, the following commemorative text printed with upper case are added: -

NEW ZEALAND 1990

COMMEMORATING THE

SIGNING OF THE

TREATY OF WAITANGI

1840

Selling price A$33.50 by RAM

BBB Prefix in Folder

Prefix BBB - NZ$17.85 Cardboard sleeve. The note is sealed in the sleeve and cannot be safely removed without damaging the sleeve. 19,450 folders issued but not sure if all were sold out or any unsold folders returned to the central bank. There is no shortage in supply for this note with this prefix. It is just the matter of what price you are willing to pay for. This BBB prefix folder note, together with the 2-in-one uncut sheet are the most common notes that you can find for sale for this commemorative series.

CCC Prefix

(Missing)

This note is also sold in a cardboard sleeve just like the Prefix BBB note. However, I have no details as to how many were made available then.

DDD Prefix

(Missing)

CWB Prefix

Countrywide Banking Corporation Limited

156mm x 79mm

Countrywide Banking Corporation Limited was a retail bank operating throughout New Zealand until 1998 when the company was acquired by the National Bank of New Zealand. The bank was created from Country Building Society, which itself emerged from the original Auckland Co-operative Terminating Building Society established in March 1897. In 2003, the Australia & New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ) purchased the National Bank of New Zealand, and in 2014 retired the brand in favour of the ANZ brand.

FTC Prefix

Farmers Trading Company Ltd

156.5mm x 78.5mm

Farmers Trading Company Ltd is a New Zealand mid-market department store chain with its headquarter based in Auckland. The company operates 59 stores across the country specialising in family fashion, beauty, homewares, furniture, large appliances and whiteware/white goods. The company was founded by Robert Laidlaw in 1909, initially selling agricultural supplies through mail order catalogues.

MBL Prefix

Mobil Oil Corporation

157mm x 78.5mm

Mobil Oil Corporation, the brand name speaks for itself. Mobil New Zealand is the oldest oil company, with it's roots tracing back to 1896 when Vacuum Oil of New York established its operation in Wellington. Since then, they have been operating in New Zealand in various forms, and a major player in the New Zealand fuel market for over a century.

RNZ Prefix

Radio New Zealand

156mm x 78.5mm

Radio New Zealand was the first radio broadcast in New Zealand on 17.11.1921 by Professor Robert Jack. Since then public radio broadcasting can be traced through several key periods - The Radio Broadcasting Company (1925-1931); the New Zealand Broadcasting Board (1931-1936); the National Broadcasting Services (1936-1962); and the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation (1962-1975). RNZ is a Crown owned entity and is governed by the Radio New Zealand Act 1995.

RXX Prefix

Rank Xerox

156.5mm x 78mm

Rank Xerox was formed in 1956 by the partnership between Rank Organisation and Xerox Corporation. The company was established to manufacture and distribute plain paper photocopying equipment. The company then entered into a joint venture with Fuji Photo film, known as Fuji Xerox. In 1990, Rank Xerox's operation was taken over by Fuji Xerox, later changing its name to Fujifilm Business Innovation in 2021.

TNZ Prefix

Television New Zealand

156mm x 78.5mm

Television New Zealand (TVNZ) is a New Zealand state-owned media company and Crown entity. TVNZ was established in 1980 following the merger of Television One and South Pacific Television. TVNZ was the sole television broadcaster in the country until the private channel TV3 was launched in 1989.

Footnote: The above comments posted may not be correct or accurate and have not been verified by any relevant authorities. The comments on the Treaty of Waitangi mentioned are solely mine and are based on my own opinion and understanding. I only come up with my conclusion based solely on my brief understanding of the British's history during the so-called period of - "Britannia Ruled The Waves". It is okay to disagree with what I have written here, and if you do, most likely you are correct and I am not. 😁

...Western Samoa - Specimen ND1985 And ND1990

2026-07-08T04:00:00.000+14:00

Malo Saʻoloto Tutoʻatasi o Sāmoa

Independent State of Samoa

Central Bank of Western Samoa (1959-1975)

Monetary Board of Western Samoa (1975-1984)

Central Bank of Samoa (Est.1984)

Currency - Tala (WST)

Here are the four specimen notes that I have in my collection. I am missing the 2 and 5 tala specimen notes. It is believed that these were first introduced in (nd)1985 for the 10 and 20 tala, and the remaining two notes, 50 and 100 tala released in (nd)1990.

The notes posted here are the third series since the country adopted the 'Tala' currency from the 'Pound' series. Samoa adopted the 'Tala' currency on 10.07.1967 at the conversion rate of 1 tala = 10 shilling (2 tala = 1 pound).

For this series, only one print for each denomination was issued and the legal text on the notes are all printed with - Legal Tender in Western Samoa. Samoa was first called Western Samoa in 1914 when New Zealand troops occupied the nation during World War I. Prior to that, the country was known as German Samoa. In 1997, it changed its name to just Samoa.

Ten Tala Specimen

Front - Billowing Samoa national flag. In the background is a view of Samoa coastline from a distance. To the right is a farmer harvesting bananas with a machete.

Minister of Finance - Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi

Date - nd1985

Watermark - Malietao Tanumafili I

Sizes - 141.5mm x 73mm

Back - Billowing Samoa national flag. A view of Samoa beach with coconuts trees. Samoa Coat of Arms below the flag.

Twenty Tala Specimen

Front - Samoa billowing national flag. A fisherman casting his net at the beach. A view of Samoan coastline in the distance.

Minister of Finance - Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi

Watermark - Malietao Tanumafili I

Date - nd1985

Sizes - 141.5mm x 72.5mm

Back - Parliament house (Fono House) in Apia. A billowing national flag of Samoa to the right and the Coat of Arms below the flag.

Fifty Tala (Specimen)

Front - HRH Malietoa Tanumafili II (b.1913-207). He was the Head of State (O le Ao o le Malo) of Samoa from 1962 to 2007. A billowing national flag to the right. In the background is a view of Villa Vailima, the former residence of Robert Louis Stevenson (b.1850-1894). Villa Vailima is now museum. A Tanoa Bowl (Laulau) which is used in 'Ava ceremony is printed to the left of Malietoa Tanumafili.

Signatures

Minister of Finance - Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi

General Manager - Leasi Papali'i Tommy Scanlan

Date - nd1990

Watermark - Malietao Tanumafili I

Sizes - 140mm x 72mm

Back - Man performing traditional Samoan fire knife dance. Women seated dancing as a group. A pole with Samoan billowing flag hoisted.

One Hundred Tala Specimen

Front - HRH Malietoa Tanumafili II (b.1913-207). Head of State from 1962 to 2007. A billowing national flag to the left. In the center is the Fono House (Parliament house) situated in Apia.

Signatures

Minister of Finance - Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi

General Manager - Leasi Papali'i Tommy Scanlan

Date - nd1990

Watermark - Malietao Tanumafili I

Sizes -140mm x 72mm

Back - Farmers processing coconuts. A billowing flag of Samoa to the right and the country's Coat of Arms below the flag.

...Papua New Guinea - 100 Kina ND2026 Commemorative Sir Julius Chan 陳仲民 Anniversary

2026-07-04T04:00:00.000+14:00

Papua New Guinea, Independent State of

Bank of Papua New Guinea (Est.1973)

Currency - Kina (PGK)

This is a commemorative note of 100 kina that was released on 28.01.2026 to celebrate the first anniversary of the passing of Papua New Guinea's second Prime Minister. Sir Julius Chan. Sir Julius died on 30.01.2025 in Huris, New Ireland Province. Following his death, the government of Papua New Guinea declared a week of national mourning. He was given a state funeral in Port Moresby, the capital city and his remains were then buried in New Ireland Province.

Sir Julius Chan was born half Chinese and half Papua New Guinean (mother Miriam Tinkoris, a native of New Ireland). His father was Chan Pak (陳柏 b.1896-1994 Sydney Australia), a trader originally came from Taishan, a coaster city situated in the southwest of Guangdong province. Sir Julius was the fifth child out of seven children, and it was believed that he spoke Cantonese, apart from English and a local dialect of Papua New Guinea. During the Second World War, because of his mixed race, the Japanese occupiers treated the entire Chan family as outsiders and put his father into forced labour building roads and bridges. One of his younger brothers died during the war (casualty of war). His older brother was in Hong Kong schooling during the war, and was tricked by a family friend and sold as a slave in China working as a farm labour. He was then rescued by a Communist Party general and they made him a shoe cleaner and a pistol carrier. After the war the Chinese General felt sorry for him and helped him to return to Hong Kong as a free man and later he managed to return home and united with the family in Papua New Guinea.

This is the second time in the history of the Bank of Papua New Guinea since 1975 that banknotes were issued honoring a politician. The first time this happened was Sir Michael Somare on a fifty kina paper note issued in 1989. Since then, the 50 kina note with the portrait of Sir Michael Somare has been reprinted in polymer substrate materials including normal and commemorative notes, and I am just wondering if this 100 kina note with the portrait of Sir Julius Chan will be the same design for all future reprints. The difference between Sir Michael Somare and Sir Julius Chan is that the 50 kina notes were issued when Sir Michael Somare was still alive and Sir Julius Chan is not.

Whilst this note was issued as a commemorative banknote, there is nothing, like a commemorative logo or text to say this is a commemorative issue.

One Hundred Kina

Front - Papua New Guinea's Parliament building located in Waigani in the capital city of Port Moresby. The parliament house was officially opened on 08.08.1984 by Prince Charles (now King Charles The lll). The parliament house was formerly known as the House of Assembly Building of Papua New Guinea from 1964 to 1975. On the top left is the Bird of Paradise, the national emblem of Papua New Guinea, perched on a Kundu Drum and Ceremonial spear. Coat of Arms and on the far left is a see-through image of the bank's logo and the images of Bird of Paradise.

Signatures

Governor - Elizabeth W Genia (tenure 2023-)

Secretary, Department of Treasury - Andrew F Oaeke (tenure 2021-)

Date - nd2026

Sizes - 150mm x 70mm

Back - The portrait of the late Sir Julius Chan (b.1939-2025). Julius Chan who was the second Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea from 1980 to 1982, and again in 1994 to March 1997, and June 1997 to July 1997. Julius Chan was half Chinese and half native of Papua New Guinea and was born on Tanga Islands. His Chinese given name is 陳仲民 (transliteration - Chan Chung-min/Chen Zhongmin). His father was from Taishan (泰山 - southern China, near Macau) in China. Apart from Papua New Guinea dialects and English, he also spoke Cantonese. Apart from being the country's Prime Minister, he was also the 4th governor of New Ireland from 2007 to 2025 (until his death). Julius Chan was born in 1939 and died on 30.01.2025 at the age of 85 years old. Other images printed on this note is an image of a fisherman on a canoe (shark caller) catching sharks.

...Tonga - 2012 Specimen Reprints Of 2008 Series

2026-07-01T04:00:00.000+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Below are four reprints of notes from the 2008 series. The 2008 series was printed in a full set of seven notes, from one to 100 pa'anga. This is the first of the 4 reprints since it was first introduced.

The signatures for these reprints are; -

Prime Minister - Siale 'Ataongo Kaho, Lord Tu'ivakano (2010-2014)

Minister of Finance - Sunia Fili Manu (tenure 2010-2012)

The design for these reprints are still the same, except for the two new signatures.

One Pa'anga

nd2012, 151.5mm x 71mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Back - The theme on the back of the note is mainly related to tourism, depicting a Humpback whale doing a water backsplash. Whales watching months in Tonga are from June to October, with August and September being the best months. Humpback whale watching is popular around the islands of Vava'u. Vava'u islands are located north-east of the main island Tongatapu and to get there by air is about one hour flight

Two Pa'anga

nd2012, 151mm x 71mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Back - Scene of school activities. In the center left it depicts a school activity showing a teacher conducting a class outdoors. In the background is a school building and to the right a rugby player attacking another player holding the rugby ball in his arm. Rugby Union is the national sport of Tonga. The national team is known as 'Ikale Tahi or Sea Eagles in English. Whilst banknote theme designs are repeated from series to series in Tonga, this is the first time this design or theme is depicted on a Tongan banknote since 1967. However, apart from the nd2012 reprint, this theme has not been repeated since then.

Five Pa'anga

nd2012, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT.

Ten Pa'anga

nd2012, 151.5mm 70.5mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT.

...Tonga - 2008 Specimen Full Set Hybrid

2026-06-06T04:00:00.000+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

This is a full set of seven notes with new designs. This is the third series of banknotes issued by the National Reserve Bank of Tongo, since 1992. This is also the first time the 100 pa'anga denomination is introduced and also the first Hybrid note too.

One Pa'anga

nd2008, 151.5mm x 71mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Two Pa'anga

nd2008, 151.5mm x 71.5mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Five Pa'anga

nd2008, 151.5mm x 70.5mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT.

Ten Pa'anga

nd2008, 151.5mm 70.5mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Twenty Pa'anga

nd2008, 152mm x 72mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Fifty Pa'anga

nd2008, 151mm x 71mm

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

One Hundred Pa'anga Hybrid Commemorative

nd2008, 151mm x 70mm

This note was issued to coincide with the crowning of King George Tupou V on 01.08.2008.

Watermarks - King George Tupou V and electrotype NRBT

Back - An Aerial view of Vava'u Harbour. The Vava'u Harbour is also known as the Port of Refuge. The harbour is located in the northern part of Tonga within the Vava'u island group. The main town is Neiafu and is located on the shores of this harbour. Vava'u island is famous for its natural beauty and is a tourist attraction and destination for the rich (yachts visiting) and cruise ships and for sailing and humpback whales watching.

...Fiji - Polymer Notes Series ND2026 Full Set Two-In-One Uncut Sheets

2026-05-25T04:00:00.000+14:00

Republic of Fiji

Reserve Bank of Fiji (Est.1983)

Currency - Dollar (FJD)

On 17.01.2026, I posted a full set of five polymer notes issued on 12.01.2026. Now I have added a full set of 2-in-one uncut sheet polymer banknotes for all the five denominations. You can read my previous post here.

In addition to these 2-in-one uncut sheets, other uncut sheets such as 5, 10 and 45-in-one are also available to collectors. However, I do not have them nor I intend to get them either.

From the below scans, you will see the two images for the $50 and $100 are incomplete. This is because the length of these se-tenant strips are longer than what my standard size scanner can handle. In general, I would prefer to have them issued in a vertical pair as it would allow storage much easier. I have made a habit that when it comes to collecting uncut sheets, I would restrict myself to not buy any of these that are more than 5 or 8 uncut sheets, and it also depends on the format of the uncut sheets offered. The issue I have is more of my storing problem and why would anyone want to get half or a full size uncut sheet when they are hard to store? Most of these large sized sheets are stored in a tube and in most cases, never to be seen after getting them. To me, these are just wallpapers and you would not take them out once just to admire them. So there is no need to spend more money on them that I have already spent (wasted). Of course, this is just my opinion and I do not expect you to agree with me on this. If you enjoy them, then I am happy for you.

Five Dollars Two-In-One Uncut Sheet

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Kulawai (Red-throated Lorikeet), which is Fiji's smallest member of the parrot family. Predominantly green, the Kulawai is a very rare inhabitant of the mountain forest canopy which feeds on nectar and pollen. The last confirmed sighting was in 1993 and searches in the last few years have failed to find any. So are they extinct now?

A clear window with an image of a Kato ni Masima (salt basket) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 272mm x 67mm

Back - The design features an image of the endangered Vonu Dina (Green Turtle). It is one of the largest sea turtles and the most commonly found ones in Fiji. Of the seven different species found globally, this is the only herbivore feeding turtle and feeds mostly on seagrasses and algae. An image of Vutia seagrass (Syringodium isoetifolium) consumed by the green turtles is also depicted. This note showcases two rare turtle species to the world and also in protecting them for sustainability.

Ten Dollars Two-In-One Uncut Sheet

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Beli (Lever’s Goby). Beli is one of few true freshwater fish, living all its life in fast-running fresh water as it flows over stones to which they often attach. Their presence in any river is an indicator of good habitat quality and minimal catchment disturbance.

A clear window with an image of i Buburau ni Bete (duck dish) is featured on the banknote.

Sizes - 280mm x 67mm

Back - The design features three children planting mangrove along the coastline. Mangroves are largely threatened due to coastal development. Advocacy on protecting mangroves and restoring damaged ones is vital with mangroves regarded as climate heroes since they extract carbon from the atmosphere helping combat climate change and reduce global warming.

Twenty Dollars Two-In-One Uncut Sheet

Front - The design features the iconic Kacau ni Gau (Fiji Petrel) which is known to nest only on Gau Island in Fiji. For much of its life, the Kacau ni Gau is a true ocean bird and remains at sea probably well outside Fijian waters for months on end. It has a very distinctive flight style which helps to make it stand out.

A clear window with an image of a Foa (Rotuman coconut scraper) is featured on the banknote.

Sizes - 292mm x 67mm

Back - The design features the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) Building located along Pratt Street in Suva. The RBF is the central bank of the Republic of Fiji and was established in 1984 as an independent institution through an Act of Parliament - the RBF Act (1983).

Fifty Dollars Two-In-One Uncut Sheet

Part of the note on the left-hand side is missing from the scan.

Front - The design features the Tagimoucia (Medinilla waterhousei) flower which is perhaps Fiji’s best known flower. It is the subject of songs, stories and folklore. Tagimoucia is a liana of the upland forest and where it occurs it often flowers profusely in bunches of vivid scarlet petals contrasting with the pure white centres. It also occurs on Mount Seatura in Bua.

A clear window with an image of a Wasekaseka (Whale’s tooth necklace) is featured on the banknote.

Sizes - 300mm x 67mm

Back - The design features a Girmitiya lady with the Leonidas ship in the backdrop. The Leonidas was the first vessel that transported the Girmitiyas into Fiji on 14 May 1879. Girmitiya commonly refers to the indentured labourers from the then British India who were brought to work on sugarcane plantations in Fiji. These people were also shipped by the British to work in other parts of the world occupied by the British, like British Guiana, the Caribbean, Jamaica, Mauritius, South Africa, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. These indentured labourers replaced the slave labourers following the abolition of the trade in the early 19th century. Most of these people were deceived, coerced or even kidnapped by the British and according to a British historian, Huge Tinker (b.1921-2000), he classified them as modern slaves. The indenture system was officially abolished on 1 January 1920 whereby the majority of the Girmitiyas eventually settled in Fiji. Today about 38% of the population are Fiji Indians or Fijian with Indian heritage. The Leonidas ship was a labour transport ship and made it's first voyage from Calcutta (Kolkata) in 1879 and arrived in Levuka Fiji. Over the next 37 years, it transported over 61,000 Indians from India to work in Fiji. This note clearly honouring those who came (willing or unwilling by force) and made contribution to Fiji's economic growth and stability through scarify and harsh labour conditions mostly in the agriculture industry. It is good to see Fiji honoring them for their contributions after so many years.

Part of the note on the left-hand side is missing from the scan.

One Hundred Dollars Two-In-One Uncut Sheet

The letter F and part of the note on the left hand side is missing from the

scan. This is not an error note.

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Nanai (Cicada). Cicadas are well known for their loud and ignoring calls, some of which resound through Fiji’s forests. Nanai is unique due to its striking appearance and is extremely well known to the inland communities of Viti Levu as it emerges in enormous numbers once every eight years and is not otherwise seen. Imagine the noise it can make as a group. Trust me, even just one can be annoying, not to mention them in a group.

A clear window with an image of a Buli Kula (Golden Cowrie) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 312mm x 67mm

Back - The design features an i-Taukei man (indigenous Fijian) in traditional attire holding (offering) a bilo (bowl) of kava. Kava is an integral part of the i-Taukei culture and is ritually consumed as part of traditional ceremonies such as welcoming visitors, resolving conflicts and making peace. Kava is also consumed widely in Fiji in casual social gatherings and is regarded as the national drink of Fiji.

The numeral 1 on the left hand corner is missing from the scan.

This is not an error note

...Tonga - ND2005 Specimen Full Set

2026-05-23T04:00:00.000+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Here is a full set of six notes issued in (nd)2005. This is the last of the series, first introduced in 1995 under the banner of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga. This series was then discontinued after the death of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV in 2006. New series was then introduced with new designs of the new King Tupou V in 2008.

The two signature printed on these notes belonged to; -

Prime Minister - Prince Ulukalala Lavaka Ata [King Tupou VI] (tenure 2000-2006)

Minister of Finance - Siosiua Tuitalukua Tupou 'Utoikamanu (tenure 2001-2008)

One Pa'anga

nd2005, 151mm x 70.5mm

Front - Portrait of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (b.1918-2006). King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (born Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupoulahi) was crowned King of Tonga in 1965, following the death of his mother, Queen Salote Tupoulll (born Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu), who ruled Tonga for 48 years from 1918 to 1965. At the time of his accession to the Tongan throne, King Topou IV was 47 years old. Coronation was held two years later on 04.07.1967. He died at the age of 88 years old and was succeeded by his eldest son, King George Tupou V.

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - View of a coastal town. It is not sure if this is actually related to an actual town or location or simply just an artist's impression. I cannot be sure if this is an aerial view of a river scene of Port of Vava'u as some have reported. Some banknote websites have stated that but some just mentioned the scene as a coastal town. I am not surprised if this is actually related to a coastal town in Tonga. Vava'u is a group of islands in Tonga and is famous for its stunning natural beauty, particularly it's clear waters, pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. It is also a popular destination for sailing and humpback whales watching.

Two Pa'anga

nd2005, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - Scene of a group of women sitting on the ground making Tapa (Ngatu) cloth. The Ngatu is a traditional textile made from the inner bark of the paper mulberry tree. It is a significant cultural item in Tonga, and they are used in ceremonies, gift-giving, and as a display of wealth. The cloth is created through a process of beating, soaking, and gluing strips of bark, followed by intricate painting and dyeing. Countries in the Pacific region also used them, like Samoa, Niue, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Fiji.

Five Pa'anga

nd2005, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - Ha'amonga stone gateway or Ha'amonga 'a Maui is a stone structure with two vertical large stones supporting a third stone on the top. This Ha'amonga 'a Maui is situated on the island of Tongatapu. Standing next to the structure is a man/woman. This gives you some ideas how big this structure is. It is believed that this structure was built by King Tu'itatui in the 13th century in honour of his sons.

Ten Pa'anga

nd2005, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Twenty Pa'anga

nd2005, 151.5mm x 70mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - The note depicts the Tonga Development Bank (TDB) building in Nuku'alofa the capital city of Tonga. It is not known when this building was built. Like all banks, it's main function is to promote Tonga's economic and social advancement through a variety of banking services including loans, savings, and domestic money transfer (RTGS). TDB was established on 01.09.1977 and is both private and government owned.

Fifty Pa'anga

nd2005, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

...Fiji - ND2026 Polymer Series Replacement Prefix ZZ Full Set

2026-05-02T04:00:00.001+14:00

Republic of Fiji

Reserve Bank of Fiji (Est'd.1983)

Currency - Dollar (FJD)

Here is a full set of five notes all printed with the replacement prefix of ZZ. This serial was issued on 02.01.2026. For this series, the bank also released this new series in a booklet with all five notes as well as a single note in a folder. The bank has also made uncut sheets available in 2-in-1, 5-in-1, 10-in-one and 45-in-one.

Personally, I find this set quite expensive. As my ego continues to grow daily when it comes to this hobby, I do not feel I have any option but to get one full set for my collection just to satisfy myself. For this series, I now have one full set of individual notes, one full set in a single folder, one set of specimens and to complete this with the replacement set.

I was a bit surprised when I saw the low serial number for the $10 note - ZZ 000005. This is the lowest replacement note number I have in my entire replacement notes collection. Most of my replacement notes serial numbers are in thousands and to get one such a low number is a bonus to my collection. I do not usually chase after such notes as they can be very expensive, not to mention, hard to find too. Since I got this out of the blue, it does give me the satisfactory feeling to have one in my collection. Of course, the number 1 note would be the best, but hoping for such a note is just a dream that may never be fulfilled. One can only continue to dream as it is still free to dream about it.

This series of banknotes is designed by Svetlana Nekrasova and printed by Crane Currency on CCL Secure's GUARDIAN™ polymer substrate.

Five Dollars

Front - Features Fiji’s endemic Kulawai (red-throated Lorikeet), Fiji’s smallest member of the parrot family. Predominantly green, the Kulawai is a very inhabitant of the mountain forest canopy which feeds on nectar and pollen. The last confirmation sighting was in 1993 and searches in the last few years have failed to find it.

A clear window with an image of a Kato ni Masima (salt basket) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 136mm x 67mm

Back - Features an image of the endangered Vonu Dina (Green Turtle). It is one of the largest sea turtles and the most commonly found ones in Fiji. Of the seven different species found globally, this is the only herbivore feeding turtle and feeds mostly on seagrasses and algae. An image of Vutia seagrass (Syringodium isoetifolium) consumed by the green turtle is also depicted.

Ten Dollars (low serial number ZZ 000005)

Front - Features Fiji’s endemic Beli (Lever’s Goby). Beli is one of few true freshwater fish, living all its life in fast-running fresh water as it flows over stones to which they often attach. Their presence in any river is an indicator of good habitat quality and minimal catchment disturbance.

A clear window with an image of i Buburau ni Bete (duck dish) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 140.5mm x 67mm

Back - Features children planting mangrove along the coastline. Mangroves are largely threatened due to coastal development. Advocacy on protecting mangroves and restoring damaged ones is vital with mangroves regarded as climate heroes since they extract carbon from the atmosphere helping combat climate change and reduce global warming.

Twenty Dollars

Front - Features the iconic Kacau ni Gau (Fiji Petrel) which is known to nest only on Gau Island in Fiji. For much of its life, the Kacau ni Gau is a true ocean bird and remains at sea probably well outside Fijian waters for months on end. It has a very distinctive flight style which helps to make it stand out.

A clear window with an image of a Foa (Ratuman coconut scraper) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 146mm x 67mm

Back - Features the Reserve bank of Fiji (RBF) Building located along Pratt Street I Suva. The RBF is the central bank of the Republic of Fiji and was established in 1984 as an independent institution through an Act of Parliament – the RBF Act (1983).

Fifty Dollars

Front - Features the Tagimoucia (Medinella waterhouse) flower which is perhaps Fiji’s best known flower. It is the subject of songs, stories and folklore. Tagimoucia is a liana of the upland forest and where it occurs it often flowers profusely in bunches of vivid scarlet petals contrasting with the pure white centers. It also occurs on Mount Seatura in Bua.

A clear window with an image of a Wasekaseka (Whale’s tooth necklace) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 150.5mm x 67mm

Back - Features a Girmitiya lady with the Leonidas ship in the backdrop. The Leonidas was the first vessel that transported the Girmitiyas into Fiji on 14 May 1879. Girmitiya commonly refers to the indentured labourers from the then British India who were brought to work on sugarcane plantations in Fiji. The indenture system was officially abolished on 1 January 1920 whereby the majority of the Girmitiyas eventually settled in Fiji.

One Hundred Dollars

Front - Features Fiji’s endemic Nanai (Cicada). Cicadas are well known for their loud calls, some of which resound through Fiji’s forests. Nanai is unique due to its striking appearance and is extremely well known to the inland communities of Viti Levu as it emerges in enormous numbers once every eight years and is not otherwise seen.

A clear window with an image of a Buli Kula (Golden Cowrie) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 156mm x 67.5mm

Back - Features an i-Taukei man (indigenous Fijian) in traditional attire holding a bilo (bowl) of kava. Kava is an integral part of the i-Taukei culture and is ritually consumed as part of traditional ceremonies such as welcoming visitors, resolving conflicts and making peace. Kava is also consumed widely in Fiji in casual social gatherings and is regarded as the national drink of Fiji.

...Tonga - ND2001 Specimen Of Four Notes Full Set

2026-04-25T04:00:00.001+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Below are four specimen notes, first issued in 1995. These are reprints and have the following signatures printed on the notes: -

Prime Minister - Prince Ulukalala Lavaka Ata [King Tupou VI] (tenure 2000-2006)

Minister of Finance - Dr Kinikinilau Tutoatasi Fakafanua (tenure 1991-2000)

One Pa'anga

nd2001, 151mm x 70.5mm

Front - Portrait of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (b.1918-2006). King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (born Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupoulahi) was crowned King of Tonga in 1965, following the death of his mother, Queen Salote Tupoulll (born Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu), who ruled Tonga for 48 years from 1918 to 1965. At the time of his accession to the Tongan throne, he was 47 years old. Coronation was held two years later on 04.07.1967. He died at the age of 88 years old and was succeeded by his eldest son, King George Tupou V.

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Two Pa'anga

nd2001, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Five Pa'anga

nd2001, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Ten Pa'anga

nd2001, 151.5mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - The note depicts the Tonga Development Bank (TDB) building in Nuku'alofa, the capital city of Tonga. It is not known when this building was built. Like all banks, it's main function is to promote Tonga's economic and social advancement through a variety of banking services including loans, savings, and domestic money transfer (RTGS). TDB was established on 01.09.1977 and is both private and government owned.

...Tonga - 1995 (ND1997/1998) Specimen Of Three Notes

2026-04-04T03:00:00.001+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Below are three specimen notes from the 1995 series. The three notes here are reprints from the initial issues, first introduced in 1995. It is not sure when these were released, but one can only guess either 1997 or 1998, after the release in 1995.

The signatures printed on the notes belonged to:

Prime Minister - Baron Vaea von Houma (tenure 1991-2000)

Minister of Finance - Dr Kinikinilau Tutoatasi Fakafanua (tenure 1991-2000)

One Pa'anga

nd1997/1998, 150.5mm x 70mm

Front - Portrait of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (b.1918-2006). King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (born Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupoulahi) was crowned King of Tonga in 1965, following the death of his mother, Queen Salote Tupoulll (born Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu), who ruled Tonga for 48 years from 1918 to 1965. At the time of his accession to the Tongan throne, he was 47 years old. Coronation was held two years later on 04.07.1967. He died at the age of 88 years old and was succeeded by his eldest son, King George Tupou V.

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Twenty Pa'anga

nd1997/1998, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Five Pa'anga

nd1997/1998, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

...Fiji - Polymer Specimen Notes Series ND2026 Full Set

2026-03-14T03:00:00.001+14:00

Republic of Fiji

Reserve Bank of Fiji (Est.1983)

Currency - Dollar (FJD)

On 17.01.2026, I posted a full set of 5 new notes released on 02.01.2026 (nd2026). Please feel free to visit the post to read the descriptions of all the notes. Here, I have now posted another full set all printed with the word 'Specimen' on the front and back in red.

Unlike those previously issued Specimen notes, these Specimen notes are all printed with the serial number of FJ 888888, instead of AA 000000 or ZZ 000000. The first time when the bank used the solid 8s numbers for the specimen note was the nd2022 Tokyo Olympic Games commemorative $7 specimen note, printed with the serial number of GFG 888888.

Five Dollars Specimen

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 139mm x 67mm

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Ten Dollars Specimen

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 141.5mm x 66.5mm

Back - The design features three children planting mangrove along the coastline. Mangroves are largely threatened due to coastal development. Advocacy on protecting mangroves and restoring damaged ones is vital with mangroves regarded as climate heroes since they extract carbon from the atmosphere helping combat climate change and reduce global warming.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Twenty Dollars Specimen

Kacau ni Gau (Fiji Petrel)

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 146mm x 67mm

Back - The design features the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) Building located along Pratt Street in Suva. The RBF is the central bank of the Republic of Fiji and was established in 1984 as an independent institution through an Act of Parliament - the RBF Act (1983).

Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) Building

Fifty Dollars Specimen

Tagimoucia (Medinilla waterhousei) flower

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 156mm x 67mm

Back - The design features a Girmitiya lady with the Leonidas ship in the backdrop. The Leonidas was the first vessel that transported the Girmitiyas into Fiji on 14 May 1879. Girmitiya commonly refers to the indentured labourers from the then British India who were brought to work on sugarcane plantations in Fiji. These people were also shipped by the British to work in other parts of the world occupied by the British, like British Guiana, the Caribbean, Jamaica, Mauritius, South Africa, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. These indentured labourers replaced the slave labourers following the abolition of the trade in the early 19th century. Most of these people were deceived, coerced or even kidnapped by the British and according to a British historian, Huge Tinker (b.1921-2000), he classified them as modern slaves. The indenture system was officially abolished on 1 January 1920 whereby the majority of the Girmitiyas eventually settled in Fiji. Today about 38% of the population are Fiji Indians or Fijian with Indian heritage. The Leonidas ship was a labour transport ship and made it's first voyage from Calcutta (Kolkata) in 1879 and arrived in Levuka Fiji. Over the next 37 years, it transported over 61,000 Indians to work in Fiji. This note clearly honouring those who came (willing or unwilling by force) and made contribution to Fiji's economic growth and stability through scarify and harsh labour conditions mostly in the agriculture industry.

a Girmitiya lady with the Leonidas ship

One Hundred Dollars Specimen

Nanai (Cicada)

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Nanai (Cicada). Cicadas are well known for their loud and ignoring calls, some of which resound through Fiji’s forests. Nanai is unique due to its striking appearance and is extremely well known to the inland communities of Viti Levu as it emerges in enormous numbers once every eight years and is not otherwise seen. Imagine the noise it can make as a group. Trust me, even just one can be annoying, not to mention as in a group.

A clear window with an image of a Buli Kula (Golden Cowrie) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 156mm x 67mm

Back - The design features an i-Taukei man (indigenous Fijian) in traditional attire holding (offering) a bilo (bowl) of kava. Kava is an integral part of the i-Taukei culture and is ritually consumed as part of traditional ceremonies such as welcoming visitors, resolving conflicts and making peace. Kava is also consumed widely in Fiji in casual social gatherings and is regarded as the national drink of Fiji.

an i-Taukei man (indigenous Fijian)

...Tonga - 1992-1997 Specimen Notes

2026-03-06T03:00:00.001+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Below are six notes issued between 1992 and 1997. The notes posted here are derived from the 1992 and 1997 series. All notes are printed with matching signatures and that is why I have posted them all in one post, despite these were not issued from the same series.

The signatures on the notes are; -

Prime Minister - Baron Vaea von Houma (tenure 1991-2000)

Minister of Finance - James Cecil Cocker (tenure 1982-1991)

Baron Vaea von Houma (b.1921-2009) was a nephew of Queen Salote (b.1900-1965), who ruled Tonga from 1918 until 1965. The Baron's birth name was Siaosi 'Alipate Halakilangi Tau'alupeoko Vaea Tupov. His career in the Tonga government spanned 54 years. He was the 12th Prime Minister of Tonga.

From the above, I have mentioned that James Cecil Cocker's tenure as Minister of Finance ended in 1991 and yet these notes posted were released after 1991. In general, this is not uncommon, as in most cases, banknotes are printed in advance and not released to the public for various reasons. The most common reason is supply and demand. Other reasons could be due to economic conditions or maybe political reasons.

One Pa'anga

nd1995, 151mm x 70mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Two Pa'anga

nd1995, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Five Paánga

nd1995, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Ten Pa'anga (nd1992)

nd1992, 151.5mm x 70.5mm

Back - Royal Palace situated in Nuku'Alofa, the capital city of Tonga. This wooden palace was built in 1867 and is located only a short distance from the Pacific ocean. The palace is the official residence of the King of Tonga. Whilst the Palace is not open to the public, it can be viewed from the waterfront and also from the main entrance separated by the gate. This gate was added to the property in the early 2000s after some people driving on lorries/trucks invaded the palace's compound.

Ten Pa'anga (nd1997)

nd1997, 151mm x 71mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - Royal Palace situated in Nuku'Alofa, the capital city of Tonga. This wooden palace was built in 1867 and is located only a short distance from the Pacific ocean. The palace is the official residence of the King of Tonga. Whilst the Palace is not open to the public, it can be viewed from the waterfront and also from the main entrance separated by the gate. This gate was added to the property in the early 2000s after some people driving on lorries/trucks invaded the palace's compound.

Twenty Pa'anga (nd1995)

nd1995, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - The front image of the Tonga Development Bank (TDB) building in Nuku'alofa the capital city of Tonga. It is not known when this building was built. Like all banks, it's main function is to promote Tonga's economic and social advancement through a variety of banking services including loans, savings, and domestic money transfer (RTGS). TDB was established on 01.09.1977 and is both private and government owned.

...Fiji - Polymer Notes Series nd2026 Full Set Numismatic Folder Matching Serial Numbers

2026-02-08T03:00:00.007+14:00

Republic of Fiji

Reserve Bank of Fiji (Est.1983)

Currency - Dollar (FJD)

As of 17.01.2026, I posted a full set of the new polymer series of five notes, which was officially released on 02.01.2026. Please feel free to visit my previous post to read the descriptions of the notes.

In addition to the official release of this series, the bank also issued numismatic products for the benefits of collectors, and below is one of the many collectibles items made available to the public.

Below is a full set of five notes issued in a single folder with notes all printed with matching series numbers. Unlike the previous two matching series number series issued by the bank back in 2007 and 2013, the set posted below have rather high serial numbers, which is a bit disappointing. In the 2007 issues, I have the sets of #112 and #113, and for the 2013, I have the set for #3200. It is not sure why the bank did not provide these 2026 series with low serial numbers as they have full control of the stocks, and if the bank had informed the manufacturer in advance, they would have set aside such notes for them too.

The official issue price for a full set with matching series number is F$350. Detail of total sets made available is unclear. One can only guess that the bank would have issued, say around 1000 sets or more. In general, this is not a lot but given that they are not provided with low numbers, I do not believe many collectors would be that keen to get them, unless you are an advanced collector. This is just my opinion and I could be wrong. Only the die-hard polymer notes collectors would get them just to satisfy one self ego, like me. Personally, a premium of F$165 against the face value of F$185 is not cheap unless they come with low matching serial numbers.

In addition to the full set in a single folder, the bank also released folders with a single note. I wonder if these are popular among collectors.

Folder Front Cover

The matching serial number set that I have posted here is all printed with the serial number of AA 028016.

Five Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 136mm x 66.5mm

Ten Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

A clear window with an image of i Buburau ni Bete (duck dish) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 140mm x 66.5mm

Twenty Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 146mm x 66.5mm

Fifty Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 151mm x 67mm

One Hundred Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Nanai (Cicada). Cicadas are well known for their loud and ignoring calls, some of which resound through Fiji’s forests. Nanai is unique due to its striking appearance and is extremely well known to the inland communities of Viti Levu as it emerges in enormous numbers once every eight years and is not otherwise seen. Imagine the noise it can make as a group. Trust me, even just one can be annoying, not to mention as in a group.

A clear window with an image of a Buli Kula (Golden Cowrie) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 155mm x 67.5mm

賤

...Samoa - 50 and 100 Tala ND2025 Polymer Normal And Replacement Notes

2026-02-01T03:00:00.004+14:00

Malo Saʻoloto Tutoʻatasi o Sāmoa

(Independent State of Samoa)

Central Bank of Samoa (Est'd.1984)

Currency : Tala (WST)

On 08.12.2025, the Central Bank of Samoa finally released the two remaining polymer notes of 50 and 100 tala, thus completing the adoption of polymer notes in full. The current series of 5, 10 and 20 tala polymer were first released in late 2023 and early 2024.

The designs for these two new polymer notes are the same as those hybrid notes previously issued, except that as these are polymer notes, it also incorporated with a see-through windows in the design, just like those previous lower denominations issued

It is believed that only one prefix is printed for each domination, and to continue with traditions, these notes are printed with DD prefix for the 50 tala and EE for the 100 tala. Replacement notes are all printed with ZZ prefixes.

As of today, there are now 21 nations fully adopting polymer banknotes. It should be noted that Samoa first tried the polymer substrate banknote when the country released the 2 tala note in 1991. In those days, Samoa was known as Western Samoa. The 2 tala polymer went on in circulation until 2009 when the central bank ceased issuing this banknote and replaced it with a coin in 2011.

With these two notes and the Fiji 2026 polymer full set released recently, the following countries are now embracing polymer banknotes in full - Australia (1996), Fiji (2026), New Zealand (1999), Papua New Guinea (2010), Samoa (2025), and Vanuatu (2017). The remaining three countries that are yet to follow are the French Polynesia, Tonga and Solomon Islands.

Fifty Tala

Front - On the front it features the Government complex at Matagialalua. The main building is Fiame Mata'afa Faumuina Mulinuu II (FMFM II) Government Building, which houses several government ministries and agencies, including the Public Services Commission and the Bureau of Statistics. This building is located on the Apia waterfront on Beach Road, and behind this building is the Matagialalua Friendship park.

Signatures: -

Minister of Finance - Hon. Lautimuia Afoa Uelese Va'ai (since 01.10.2023)

Governor - Maiava Atalina Emma Ainuu-Enari (since 11.08.2011)

Sizes - 140mm x 72mm

Back - On the back, it depicts the Central Bank of Samoa building located in the capital city of Apia. Whilst the central bank was established in 1984, the construction for the Central Bank of Samoa building was completed in 2009.

Fifty Tala ZZ Replacement Note

Sizes - 140mm x 71mm

One Hundred Tala

Front - The portrait of the late Malietoa Tanumafili II (b.1913-2007). He was the Samoa paramount chief and the head of state when Samoa became independent in 1962 until his death. In Samoan, his official title is - O le Ao o le Malo of Samoa.

Signatures: -

Minister of Finance - Hon. Lautimuia Afoa Uelese Va'ai (since 01.10.2023)

Governor - Maiava Atalina Emma Ainuu-Enari (since 11.08.2011)

Sizes - 140mm x 72mm

Back - The main feature printed on the note is the historical Mulivai Catholic Cathedral in Apia. Officially, this church is known as the Mulivai immaculate Conception of Mary Roman Catholic Cathedral and is located in Apai.

One Hundred Tala ZZ Replacement Note

Sizes - 140mm x 71.5mm

Back to Home page

...Fiji - Polymer Notes Series nd2026 Full Set

2026-01-17T03:00:00.017+14:00

Republic of Fiji

Reserve Bank of Fiji (Est.1983)

Currency - Dollar (FJD)

Posted below is a full set of five polymer banknotes released on 02.01.2026. The announcement of this series was made on 02.12.2025. Like the previous full set released in 2013, this nd2026 series also includes numismatic products of uncut sheets for all denominations, single note in full set with matching serial numbers as well as individual notes in a presentation folder.

The themes for this new series are national identity, people, resources, and national heritage. The front of the banknotes retains the familiar flora and fauna unique to Fiji, and the reverse sides feature new imagery specific to each denomination.

The uncut sheets are 2, 5, 10 and 45-in-one. The 2, 5 and 10-in-one come in a strip form. Those who collect any sheets larger than 2-in-one may have to leave them in a tube that is supplied by the bank as it would be hard to find such a large banknote sleeve to house them flat. Specimen notes for all denominations are also printed and I will be uploading these in full set in a separate post.

As the official release date for this series was 02.01.2026, some dealers already have the notes in stock for sale well before Christmas 2025. So, are these notes considered as series nd2025 or nd2026?

As this is a new series, the bank retains the main design features on the front of the previous series but with new designs on the back for all the notes. The last time Fiji released a new series was back in 2012 when the bank replaced the portrait of Queen Elizabeth the Second. This is the first time that Fiji has released a full set of banknotes printed in polymer substrate.

I believe that Fiji is the 21th nation* that has now fully adopted polymer banknotes and this new series is to circulate together with the previous series issued (polymer and paper). Fiji is also one of the very few countries that have issued banknotes in traditional cotton based paper notes, hybrid and now polymer in full set.

Five Dollars

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 136mm x 68mm

Ten Dollars

Sizes - 140mm x 66.5mm

Back - The design features three children planting mangrove along the coastline. Mangroves are largely threatened due to coastal development. Advocacy on protecting mangroves and restoring damaged ones is vital with mangroves regarded as climate heroes since they extract carbon from the atmosphere helping combat climate change and reduce global warming.

Twenty Dollars

Sizes - 146mm x 67mm

Back - The design features the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) Building located along Pratt Street in Suva. The RBF is the central bank of the Republic of Fiji and was established in 1984 as an independent institution through an Act of Parliament - the RBF Act (1983).

Fifty Dollars

Sizes - 151mm x 67mm

Back - The design features a Girmitiya lady with the Leonidas ship in the backdrop. The Leonidas was the first vessel that transported the Girmitiyas into Fiji on 14 May 1879. Girmitiya commonly refers to the indentured labourers from the then British India who were brought to work on sugarcane plantations in Fiji. These people were also shipped by the British to work in other parts of the world occupied by the British, like British Guiana, the Caribbean, Jamaica, Mauritius, South Africa, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. These indentured labourers replaced the slave labourers following the abolition of the trade in the early 19th century. Most of these people were deceived, coerced or even kidnapped by the British and according to a British historian, Huge Tinker (b.1921-2000), he classified them as modern slaves. The indenture system was officially abolished on 1 January 1920 whereby the majority of the Girmitiyas eventually settled in Fiji. Today about 38% of the population are Fiji Indians or Fijian with Indian heritage. The Leonidas ship was a labour transport ship and made it's first voyage from Calcutta (Kolkata) in 1879 and arrived in Levuka Fiji. Over the next 37 years, it transported over 61,000 Indians to work in Fiji. This note clearly honouring those who came (willing or unwilling by force) and made contribution to Fiji's economic growth and stability through scarify and harsh labour conditions mostly in the agriculture industry.

One Hundred Dollars

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Nanai (Cicada). Cicadas are well known for their loud and ignoring calls, some of which resound through Fiji’s forests. Nanai is unique due to its striking appearance and is extremely well known to the inland communities of Viti Levu as it emerges in enormous numbers once every eight years and is not otherwise seen. Imagine the noise it can make as a group. Trust me, even just one can be annoying, not to mention as in a group.

A clear window with an image of a Buli Kula (Golden Cowrie) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 156mm x 68mm

Back - The design features an i-Taukei man (indigenous Fijian) in traditional attire holding (offering) a bilo (bowl) of kava. Kava is an integral part of the i-Taukei culture and is ritually consumed as part of traditional ceremonies such as welcoming visitors, resolving conflicts and making peace. Kava is also consumed widely in Fiji in casual social gatherings and is regarded as the national drink of Fiji.

Note * - I believe the following countries/nations have fully adopted polymer banknotes in full. When I say fully adopted, I meant that only polymer notes are issued going forward and not paper banknotes anymore.

Australia, Barbados, Brunei, Canada, East Caribbean, Falkland Islands, England, Fiji, Jamaica, Maldives, Mauritius, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Northern Ireland, Samoa, Scotland, Trinidad and Tobago, United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu and Vietnam.

I have excluded The Philippines as I understand that the Philippines is still releasing paper notes and polymer notes for the same denominations for general circulation.

Officially, there are 195 countries around the world but the exact number can vary based on political recognition and disputed territories such as Taiwan, Transnistria and a few others. Based on 195 countries around the world, and the first introduction of Polymer banknotes in 1988 by Australia, today only approximately 11% of these countries have fully adopted polymer banknotes. Many countries are still taking the cautious approach and adopting a mixture of paper and polymer banknotes, with denominations issued in polymer that are common and popular in demand.

...Tonga - ND1992 Series Specimen Notes 1, 2, 5 And 10 Pa'anga Full Set

2025-12-25T03:00:00.002+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Here is my first set of specimen notes issued by the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT). I have another set of specimen notes from Tonga but these notes were issued by the Government of Tonga and were issued as a joint venture with the Franklin Mints as a numismatic product in 1978. NRBT was not established until 1989. The notes posted here were the first series ever issued under the authority of NRBT and these notes belonged to the 1992 series.

The signatures printed on these notes belong to:-

Prime Minister - Fatafehi Tu'ipelehake (tenure 1965-1991)

Minister of Finance - James Cecil Cocker (tenure 1982-1991)

Based on the above signatures, these are the only four notes issued, however there are other notes also issued but do not have the same signatures. A reprint of the 10 pa'anga was later issued and a 20 pa'anga was also introduced but with a different Prime Minister's signature. It should also be noted that there are not many banknotes issued by central banks that bear the signature of a Prime Minister. Most banks would only have just the signature of the Governor or the Governor together with the Minister of Finance/Secretary.

As specimen notes, each note is printed with the word 'SPECIMEN' in capital letter diagonally on the front and back in black. These are official specimen notes, usually issued to financial institutions in the country. The Tongan Pa'anga currency is generally not negotiable outside the country or exchangeable and for this reason I wonder if such specimen notes were also distributed overseas. It would not serve the purpose if they are not convertible outside the territory of Tonga. One can assume the inconvenience for the locals when travelling overseas is that you have to convert your local money to a foreign one.

None of these notes are dated and unlike later issues, this series is printed mainly with just two main colours. All notes are printed with the word 'Specimen' diagonally in red in the front and back. This series is generally considered as C series as all prefixes are printed with C over 1 (C/1). I do not believe the notes are printed with any watermarks either.

Tonga is a country situated in the Pacific consisting of 171 islands with 45 uninhabited. The official name is the Kingdom of Tonga with the King as its Head of State. Tonga is a constitutional Monarchy and the power of the King is limited by its constitution and laws. The monarchy has a long history dating back over 1000 years and its current constitution was established in 1875. Since 1845, the Kingdom has had only 6 monarchs. Of the previous 5, King George Tupou I was the longest serving king, reigned from 1845 to 1893, a total of 48 years. He only served one year longer than Queen Salote Tupou III (b.1900-1965). Queen Salote Tupou III was the Queen of Tonga from 1918 to 1965 (reigned 47 years).

One Pa'anga

150.5mm x 70.5mm

Front - Portrait of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (b.1918-2006). King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (born Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupoulahi) was crowned King of Tonga in 1965, following the death of his mother, Queen Salote Tupoulll (born Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu), who ruled Tonga for 48 years from 1918 to 1965. At the time of his accession to the Tongan throne, he was 47 years old. Coronation was held two years later on 04.07.1967. He died at the age of 88 years old and was succeeded by his eldest son, King George Tupou V.

Two Pa'anga

151mm x 70.5mm

Five Pa'anga

150.5mm x 70.5mm

Ten Pa'anga

150.5mm x 70.5mm

Back - Royal Palace situated in Nuku'Alofa, the capital city of Tonga. This wooden palace was built in 1867 and is located only a short distance from the Pacific ocean. The palace is the official residence of the King of Tonga. Whilst the Palace is not open to the public, it can be viewed from the waterfront and also from the main entrance separated by the gate. This gate was added to the property in the early 2000s after some people driving on lorries/trucks invaded the palace's compound.

...Papua New Guinea - 50 Kina 2025 Commemorative 50th Year of Independence

2025-11-04T03:00:00.001+14:00

Independent State of Papua New Guinea

Bank of Papua New Guinea (Est.1973)

Currency - Kina (PGK)

Here, I have posted the 50 kina polymer note issued commemorating the country's 50th year of gaining independence from Australia. This note was reportedly released on 28.08.2025 to the public for circulation.

Papua New Guinea achieved independence on 16.09.1975 after almost 57 years of under the Australian administration. Papua New Guinea was given to Australia's rule after the end of World War I. Prior to that, the country was divided into two, with the German occupying the top half of present-day Papua New Guinea and the British occupying the bottom half. In 1902, the British ceded their control to Australia and after the defeat of the German in the First World War, the part that was occupied by the German prior the war was then handed over to the Australia control.

Since gaining independence, numerous banknotes have been released to celebrate the country's independence: -

1995 - 2 kina 20th Anniversary of Independence

2000 - Full set 25th Anniversary of Independence

2010 - Full set 35th Anniversary of Independence

2015 - 20 kina 40th Anniversary of Independence

The design for this 50 kina commemorative note is very similar to the current 50 kina normal circulating note but with added commemorative features mainly on the front.

Fifty Kina

Front - Coat of Arms, a flying Bird of Paradise, with Papua New Guinea's parliament in the background. The independence logo of 50 is printed next to the parliament building. Below are two butterflies flying.

Governor - Elizabeth W Genia (tenure 2023-)

Secretary, Department of Treasury - Andrew F Oaeke (tenure 2021-)

Sizes - 145.5mm x 70mm

Back - Portrait of Sir Michael Somare (b.1936-2021); spears from Sepik; shield and mask from New Ireland; leaf and pointed Tubuan face mask from New Britain; headdress from the Highlands; mask and costume from Sepik River. No security thread.

...Tonga - Specimen Notes No Signatures Government of Tonga Issues ND1985 And 1988 (Commemorative)

2025-09-15T04:00:00.001+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Here are my two specimen notes both issued prior to the establishment of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga in 1989.

The two notes posted here were printed with no signatures and with no dates either. I believe these two notes belong to the third series since 1921. The 20 pa'anga was first issued in 1985 (Series 1985-1989) and was issued by the Government of Tonga, whilst the 50 pa'anga was first issued 1988 and a reprint was issued with the year date of 1989. In general, the 50 pa'anga was a short series which has only been printed twice. However, this design was later re adopted and issued under the National Reserve Bank of Tonga.

As these are specimen notes and printed with no dates, for those issued for general circulation the notes were printed with the following signatures, both signed as Finance Commissioner (Komisiona Pa'anga) from L-R:-

Accountant General - James Cecil Cocker (tenure 1982-1991)

Prime Minister - Prince Fatafehi Tu'ipelehake (tenure 1965-1991)

Secretary for Finance - Sione Uhila Liava'a

Twenty Pa'anga

Front - Portrait of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (b.1918-2006). King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (born Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupoulahi) was crowned King of Tonga in 1965, following the death of his mother, Queen Salote Tupoulll (born Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu), who ruled Tonga for 48 years from 1918 to 1965. At the time of his accession to the Tongan throne, he was 47 years old. Coronation was held two years later on 04.07.1967. He died at the age of 88 years old and was succeeded by his eldest son, King George Tupou V.

Fifty Pa'anga (Commemorative)

An Aerial view of Vava'u Harbour. The Vava'u Harbour is also known as the Port of Refuge. The harbour is located in the northern part of Tonga within the Vava'u island group. The main town is Neiafu and is located on the shores of this harbour. Vava'u island is famous for its natural beauty and is a tourist attraction and destination for the rich (yachts visiting) and cruise ships and for sailing and humpback whales watching.

This note was issued to coincide with the celebration of the King's 70th birthday. However, no text or logo were incorporated into the design for this celebration.

...Papua New Guines - ND2023 Prints Of 2, 10 and 100 Kina

2025-09-14T04:00:00.001+14:00

Independent State of Papua New Guinea

Bank of Papua New Guinea (Est.1973)

Currency - Kina (PGK)

Below are three notes all printed with the year nd2023. At present, only these notes have been reported and we are not sure if the five, twenty and fifty kina have been released as well, as the last print for these notes were all dated nd2021. Time will tell if more than 3 notes have been issued for the nd2023 series.

Two Kina

Governor - Elizabeth Genia (tenure 2023-)

Secretary, Department of Treasury - Andrew F Oaeke (tenure 2021-)

Dimensions - 126mm x 70.5mm

Front - Papua New Guinea's Parliament located in Waigani in the capital city of Port Moresby. The parliament house was officially opened on 08.08.1984 by Prince Charles (now King Charles The lll). The parliament house was formerly known as the House of Assembly Building of Papua New Guinea from 1964 to 1975. On the top left is the Bird of Paradise, the national emblem of Papua New Guinea, perched on a Kundu Drum and Ceremonial spear. Coat of Arms and on the far left is a see-through image of the bank's logo.

Back - The main design on the back are a Mt Hagen axe, Kula Arm band from Milne Bay, engraved dog teeth from Bouganville, and a clay pot from the Sepik regions.

Ten Kina

Governor - Elizabeth Genia (tenure 2023-)

Secretary, Department of Treasury - Andrew F Oaeke (tenure 2021-)

Dimensions - 136mm x 70.5mm

Front - The main design elements on the front are the Parliament House and the National Crest of Papua New Guinea, which is a stylised Bird of Paradise sitting on a Kundu (drum) and a spear.

Back - The main design elements on the back are a Tami Bowl, Bird of Paradise feathers, a Boar’sTusk from the Highlands and Tambu Shell Money from East New Britain, which is also the complex window design

One Hundred Kina

Governor - Elizabeth Genia (tenure 2023-)

Secretary, Department of Treasury - Andrew F Oaeke (tenure 2021-)

Dimensions - 151mm x 70mm

Front - The front of the Banknote contains an Intaglio portrait of the Parliament House and the National Crest symbolising National Unity.

Back - The main feature on the back of the note depicts the transition from the traditional primary economy towards the modern economy encompassing mining, petroleum, tourism, transportation and technology.

...Fiji - 100 Cents Polymer ND2023 Uncut Sheets Of 2 and 3 Commemorative Numismatic Products

2025-09-01T04:00:00.004+14:00

Republic of Fiji

Reserve Bank of Fiji

(Established 1983)

Currency - Dollar (FJD)

On 04.11.2023, I posted the single note for the Fiji 100 cents polymer commemorative note with the design of a Chinese Dragon. This note was issued in a joint-venture between the Reserve Bank of Fiji and a company in China called China Coin Industrial Co. Limited (CCIC) trading as Shenzhen China Coin Investment Co. Limited. CCIC was granted full license to distribute this note and was first released on 08.08.2023. The intention for this note was to celebrate the Chinese Zodiac Year of the Dragon 2024. Since the release in 2023, it is not sure how successful this issue is and I wonder if they are still selling them or they are all sold out by now. If not, then I do not believe it will ever get all sold out as the note was sold at a pretty high price given the face value is nominal.

Whilst the note printed may be auspicious to the Chinese, only banknote collectors would be interested in this as I believe such note would attract any interest from the normal folks in China.

One Hundred Cents Two Uncut Sheet Polymer

Front - Hibiscus flower, Coat of Arms. The design on the front is very similar to the previous 88-cent note, except for the see-through window on the left. Even the colours are similar too.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (tenure since 11.09.2017)

Watermark - N/A

Printer - De La Rue (not printed)

Dimensions - 145.5mm x 140.5mm

Back - A Chinese Imperial dragon holding a fireball in its paw. A Chinese word '龍' (Dragon) is also printed in the bottom right. Like the China 100 yuan polymer commemorative note issued in 2000, this note also depicts a Chinese Imperial Dragon, and back in the Chinese Imperial years right up to 1911, only the sitting Emperor of the day was allowed to have such dragon design on their robe. Anyone found to have the same dragon or similar design on their clothing will not live another day to enjoy this. The yellowish background colour also represents the Chinese Imperial colour as well.

One Hundred Cents Three Uncut Sheet

Dimensions - 210mm x 145.5mm

...Samoa - 10 Tala Polymer XVI Pacific Games 2019 Commemorative Specimen

2025-08-04T04:00:00.002+14:00

Malo Saʻoloto Tutoʻatasi o Sāmoa

Independent State of Samoa

Central Bank of Samoa, Est 1984

Currency - Tala (WST)

One in Spirit / Tasi i le Agaga

On 31.08.2019, I posted the ten tala commemorative polymer note issued to celebrate the XVI Pacific Game. The game was held in the capital city of Apia from 07.07.2019 to 20.07.2019. You can read more about my original post here.

Here, I have posted the same note but printed with the word 'specimen' on the front and on the back. Unlike the normal issues which also came in a folder, this specimen note is not. Whilst specimen notes are usually printed with all zeros serial numbers, this note is also printed with a tiny control number at the bottom left corner. The control number printed on this note is 500, and I am not sure how many pieces have been issued but I am aware that there are no shortage of supply for such specimen notes, and this is all depending how much you are willing to pay for it. I have no idea how many of the specimen notes have been printed but if I have to guess and based on past experience, I guess it would be at least 500 pieces issued. Given Samoa has a rather small population, it is unlikely that they would have printed more than 500 pieces, unless these are given away as gifts to all the participants involved in the games, which I do not believe this is the case. Of course I could be wrong here.

Ten Tala Polymer Specimen

Minister of Finance - Mr Sili Epa Tuioti (tenure 2016-2021)

Governor - Ms Maiava Atalina Emma Ainuu-Enari (Tenure 2011-)

Date - 2019

Dimensions - 141mm x 72mm

Front - Twenty-two sports were held in this XVI Pacific Game. In the center the note depicts the images of three sports - women weightlifting, rugby and outrigger canoeing. The 22 games are archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, boxing, cricket, football, golf, judo, lawn bowls, netball, outrigger canoeing, powerlifting, rugby league nines, rugby sevens, sailing, shooting, squash, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, tennis, touch rugby, triathlon, volleyball and weightlifting. To the center left is the image of the game's logo for the tournament with the word Samoa and 2019 printed on the logo. Underneath the logo is the text of "One in Spirit/Tasi i le Agaga" (Samoan).

Back - Featuring children doing various activities, with a boy carrying coconuts with a tree branch over his shoulder, a young man rowing in a canoe and four boys playing rugby with a coconut as ball. In the background is a scene of a beach with coconut trees and smaller islands. As the game's logo is in a transparent feature, it is featured sideway's on top of the note. The game ended with New Caledonia winning the most medals with 76 gold, 55 silver and 51 bronze (total 182), followed by Papua New Guinea 38/57/35 (130) and Samoa 38/42/45 (125). Every nation that participated won at least one medal, and Tokelau was the winner of the wooden spoon with only one bronze.

...Tonga - ND2023 Series Full Set #A 000086 Paper And Polymer Matching Numbers Set Commemorative

2025-04-04T03:00:00.001+14:00

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989)

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

I posted a full set of six notes (nd)2023 on 01.05.2024. Now, I have posted another full set with matching serial numbers. These are specially put together in a limited edition in folders and sold at a premium as Numismatic Collectable items. This set consists of 2 polymer notes and 4 paper banknotes. The denominations for 5 and 10 are both printed on polymer substrate. This is the first time polymer notes have been issued in the Kingdom of Tonga. This set was introduced on 04.12.2023 and is the 9th series of banknotes issued since 1921. This set was issued to commemorate the birthday of the Kingdom's moderniser King Tupou I. King George Tupou I was born on 04.12.1797 and died on 18.02.1893. He was the King of Tonga from 1845 for 48 years until his death at the good old age of 95. He lived a very long life as this is very uncommon as life expectancy in those days was around 60.

Right now there are about 11 nations in the Pacific region that are issuing their own banknotes, and all have at least one or two notes that are printed on polymer substrate except for the French Pacific Territories and New Caledonia. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu have all fully converted their banknotes to polymer notes and now Tonga have issued two of their notes in polymer substrate notes too. The reason for the two notes of 5 and 10 pa'anga printed on SAFEGUARD on polymer substrate is that these are the two most used denominations in the country. These notes are all printed by De La Rue (name not printed on the notes).

The theme for this new series is similar to those previous issues with the exception of the 50 pa'anga. I believe the design for the 50 pa'anga is completely new. As expected, the design on the front for all the notes are the same albeit in different colours. The dimensions for all six notes are also basically the same with 1 to 1.5mm in variance, which is normal. These notes are all undated (nd04.12.2023).

The serial numbers for this set are all printed with the matching numbers of A 000086. Given a rather small population in Tonga, I believe all notes for all denominations for this series are printed with the letter A prefix only. This folder set comes with a certificate of authenticity printed on the back of the folder and is signed by the bank governor, Tatafu Toma Moeaki.

Two Pa'anga (Paper)

Prime Minister - Siaosi Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni (since 12.2021)

Minister of Finance - Tiofilusi Tiueti (since 10.2022)

Bank Governor - Tatafu Toma Moeaki (since 12.2022)

Watermarks - King Tupou VI and electrotype NRBT

Dimensions - 150.5mm x 70mm

Front - The engraved portrait of King of Tonga - Tupou VI (b.1959). He was crowned King of Tonga on 18.03.2012 following the death of his brother, King George Tupou V. Prior to that, he served as the 13th Prime Minister of Tonga from 2000 to 2006. In 2008, he was then appointed as the Chief of mission for Tonga's High Commission in Canberra Australia and in 2010, he was appointed as the Tongan ambassador to Japan. To the far right is the Coat of Arms. The design on the fronts are all the same, albeit different denominations, colour and some security features.

Back - The theme on the back of the note is related to tourism, depicting a Humpback whale doing a water backsplash. Whales watching months in Tonga are from June to October, with August and September being the best months.

Five Pa'anga (Polymer)

Prime Minister - Siaosi Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni (since 12.2021)

Minister of Finance - Tiofilusi Tiueti (since 10.2022)

Bank Governor - Tatafu Toma Moeaki (since 12.2022)

Watermarks - King Tupou VI and electrotype NRBT

Dimensions - 151.5mm x 71mm

Front - This is the first of the two polymer notes issued by Tonga. It is not sure why the bank did not include the two pa'anga notes as polymers. Perhaps, the 2 pa'anga is not as heavily circulated in the country, like the 5 and 10 pa'anga.

Ten Pa'anga (Polymer)

Prime Minister - Siaosi Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni (since 12.2021)

Minister of Finance - Tiofilusi Tiueti (since 10.2022)

Bank Governor - Tatafu Toma Moeaki (since 12.2022)

Watermarks - King Tupou VI and electrotype NRBT

Dimensions - 151.5mm x 70.5mm

Front - Like the last series issued in 2015, all notes are printed with three signatures. It is not sure how many of these numismatic collectable sets are available as such information is not mentioned in the folder. Based on the set that I have here it would be fair to say that the first 100 numbered notes or more are sold as matching numbered sets. Despite saying this, I have seen matching sets selling on the Internet with notes numbered in 8xxx. However, I am not sure if these are from the official issues or if it just happened that the seller got them with matching numbers. I honestly doubt that such high serial numbered notes are from the Official matching set releases, but I could be wrong. I have a set that is not matching numbers and one of the notes has the serial number of #3327.

Back - Tonga ancient and ritual ceremony, depicting Princess Angelika Latufuipeka Tuku'aho (b.1983) performing Kava Ceremony Milolua. The princess is the eldest daughter of King Tupou VI, and the princess is the current Tonga High Commissioner to Australia since 2012.

Twenty Pa'anga (Paper)

Prime Minister - Siaosi Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni (since 12.2021)

Minister of Finance - Tiofilusi Tiueti (since 10.2022)

Bank Governor - Tatafu Toma Moeaki (since 12.2022)

Watermarks - King Tupou VI and electrotype NRBT

Dimensions - 151mm x 69.5mm

Front - This note is printed with a PUREIMAGE security feature, a holographic thread in the central right of the note. All notes are printed with the country's Coat of Arms underneath the denomination on the front.

Back - The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) building in Nkuk'alofa. The NRBT is a five story building and is the tallest building in Tonga. This building was built in 1994 and this building first featured on the 20 pa'anga 2008 note series. The building also hosts the Embassy of Japan.

Fifty Pa'anga (Paper)

Prime Minister - Siaosi Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni (since 12.2021)

Minister of Finance - Tiofilusi Tiueti (since 10.2022)

Bank Governor - Tatafu Toma Moeaki (since 12.2022)

Watermarks - King Tupou VI and electrotype NRBT

Dimensions - 151.5mm x 70mm

Front - On the front it features the NEXUS security thread, a dynamic micro-optic thread with the 'Drive' effect and denominational numeral. The security thread measures about 4.5mm wide and is printed in green colour.

Back - The St George Government Building was built in May 2017. This is a four-storey building which is occupied by the Prime Minister department, the Minister of Finance and National Planning, and also the office of Trade and Foreign Affairs. The cost for the construction was funded via a grant from China and was built by Shanghai Construction Group. This is the first time this building is featured in a Banknote series.

One Hundred Pa'anga (Paper)

Prime Minister - Siaosi Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni (since 12.2021)

Minister of Finance - Tiofilusi Tiueti (since 10.2022)

Bank Governor - Tatafu Toma Moeaki (since 12. 2022)

Watermarks - King Tupou VI and electrotype NRBT

Dimensions - 151mm x 70mm

Front - With NEXUS security feature which is a 18mm wide embedded micro optic stripe on the central left side of the note. You can find this security feature printed on the Guernsey ₤20 (nd2023), Qatar 500 riyals (2020 and 2022) and Solomon Islands $50 and $100 (nd2023).

Back - On the back is the Royal Palace situated in Nuku'Alofa, the capital city of Tonga. This wooden palace was built in 1867 and is located only a short distance from the Pacific ocean. The palace is the official residence of the King of Tonga, and this building has been featured on Tonga's banknotes since the 1967 series.