ECCB Announces Replacement of Queen Elizabeth II’s Likeness on Eastern Caribbean Currency

In a significant move, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) has revealed plans to replace the likeness of Queen Elizabeth II on the Eastern Caribbean currency. The decision was made during the 105th Meeting of the Monetary Council of the ECCB on July 21.

Since its inception in November 1984, the Eastern Caribbean banknotes have prominently featured a large portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. However, the Monetary Council has now approved a proposal to replace her image with the logo of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). This logo represents all eight member countries of the ECCU. The proposal is subject to a period of public consultation, which will run until December 31, 2023.

While the Queen’s image will be replaced, it is anticipated that the landmarks currently featured on the Eastern Caribbean (EC) notes will be retained. These landmarks include the Warspite for Anguilla (on the back of the $10 note), Admirals House for Antigua and Barbuda (on the back of the $5 note), Trafalgar Falls for the Commonwealth of Dominica (on the back of the $5 note), Nutmeg for Grenada (on the back of the $20 note), Government House for Montserrat (on the back of the $20 note), Brimstone Hill for Saint Christopher (St Kitts) and Nevis (on the back of the $50 note), Les Pitons for Saint Lucia (on the back of the $100 note), and Admiralty Bay for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (on the back of the $10 note).

Additionally, the images of Sir Arthur Lewis (on the back of the $100 note) and Sir K. Dwight Venner (on the back of the $50 note) are likely to be retained on the EC notes.

To ensure public participation, the ECCB is inviting individuals to share their views on the proposal to replace Queen Elizabeth II’s image with the ECCU logo. The consultation period provides an opportunity for the public to suggest alternatives or additional images to be used on the EC currency. Recommendations can be submitted directly to the ECCB Connects Facebook Page or via email at newECimage@eccb-centralbank.org.

The Monetary Council aims to make a final decision on the new look for the EC currency by February 2024, taking into account the feedback received during the public consultation.

This development marks a significant transition for the Eastern Caribbean currency and reflects the region’s desire to further promote its collective identity and independence.