Belize's First Bank Notes: Are They Gold Foil?

In 1984, the Central Bank of Belize issued the First Gold Bank Notes of Belize, which were special legal tender banknotes covered in 22-karat gold. These unique banknotes featured a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, as well as various animals and ships. This set of gold foil banknotes was introduced as a collector's series, with thin gold foil bonded to the paper. Each note had a face value ranging from $1 to $100 and depicted different animals, birds, fish, and ships on the front, with Queen Elizabeth II and the ruins of Altun Ha on the back. These gold foil banknotes are a reflection of Belize's history and culture, offering a unique collector's item for enthusiasts around the world.

The Central Bank of Belize produced the notes to commemorate the 1st anniversary of independence

In 1984, the Central Bank of Belize produced the first gold bank notes of Belize to commemorate the first anniversary of the country's independence from Britain in 1973. These special legal tender banknotes were covered in 22-karat gold and featured the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, along with various animals and ships. The Central Bank of Belize has the sole right to issue notes and coins in the country and has continued to enhance the security features of its banknotes to deter counterfeiters.

The first bank notes of Belize were issued under the Government of Belize and circulated on 1 January 1974, in denominations of $1, $2, $5, $10, and $20. These notes maintained the colours and design of the previous British Honduras notes, with subsequent printings in 1975 and 1976. However, these notes were demonetised in 1981 and are no longer legal tender.

The Central Bank of Belize introduced newly designed banknotes in 1990, with different reverse sides highlighting the rich variety of Belizean wildlife, national culture, and historic sites. These 1990 designs continue to be used in the current family of banknotes, with enhanced security features to maintain public confidence in the currency.

In 2012, the Central Bank of Belize issued commemorative 20-dollar banknotes to celebrate its 30th anniversary. This note depicted the Jabiru Stork in flight, along with the Headquarters of the Bank, symbolising the strength and stability of Belize's economy.

The notes are stamped on paper coated in gold foil

In 1984, the Central Bank of Belize issued the First Gold Bank Notes of Belize. These were special legal tender banknotes that were produced as collector's items. The notes were stamped on paper coated in gold foil—specifically, thin gold foil bonded to the paper. The notes featured a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, as well as various animals and ships.

The front of the notes displayed animals, birds, fish, and ships, while the back showed Queen Elizabeth II and the ruins of Altun Ha. The notes were issued in a variety of denominations, from $1 to $100. Each denomination featured different animals, birds, fish, and ships on the front, with the same portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and the ruins on the back.

The use of gold foil on banknotes is not unique to Belize. The Government of Antigua-Barbuda also issued gold foil banknotes as a collector's series from 1983 to 1988. These notes featured Queen Elizabeth II and a view of the island on the front, with flowers, plants, and animals on the back.

The Central Bank of Belize continues to issue commemorative banknotes to celebrate significant events, such as its 30th anniversary in 2012, when it issued a $20 commemorative banknote. The bank is committed to enhancing the security features of its banknotes to deter counterfeiting and maintain public confidence in Belize's currency.

They are not legal tender and cannot be exchanged for regular notes

In 1984, the Central Bank of Belize issued The First Gold Bank Notes of Belize. These were special legal tender banknotes covered in 22-karat gold foil. They featured a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, along with different animals and ships. These notes are not, however, legal tender and cannot be exchanged for regular notes.

The First Gold Bank Notes of Belize were issued under the authority of the Central Bank of Belize, which has the sole right to issue notes and coins in the country. The bank has continuously worked to enhance the security features of its banknotes to protect them from counterfeiting and maintain public confidence in the Belizean currency.

While these gold-covered notes are no longer legal tender, they hold a unique place in the history of Belize's currency. They were introduced when Belize was still transitioning from being a British colony to an independent nation. The notes reflected the country's strong ties with the United Kingdom, as they featured Queen Elizabeth II.

It is important to distinguish these gold-covered notes from the regular banknotes of Belize, which are the only valid means of payment within the country. The gold notes are considered collector's items and are often sold online. They are sought after by those interested in unique currencies and historical memorabilia.

Although The First Gold Bank Notes of Belize cannot be used for transactions, they remain a fascinating part of the country's numismatic heritage and are valued by collectors worldwide.

It is illegal to export the currency

In 1984, the Central Bank of Belize issued The First Gold Bank Notes of Belize. These special legal tender banknotes were covered in 22-karat gold and featured the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, along with different animals and ships. While these unique banknotes may be of interest to collectors, it is important to remember that exporting currency from Belize, including these gold-covered banknotes, is subject to strict regulations.

According to Belize Customs regulations, travellers can freely import and export up to 100 BZD per person in local currency. Residents of Belize can export up to 400 BZD in local currency. However, it is important to declare any currency in excess of 10,000 BZD or its foreign currency equivalent when entering or leaving the country. This declaration is a requirement under the Customs Laws of Belize and helps to ensure compliance with the country's import and export regulations.

The import and export sector is a significant aspect of Belize's economy, with a focus on encouraging foreign investment. The country is a member of the World Trade Organization and actively works to improve commercial ties with major markets such as China, Mexico, and the United States. The Belize Customs & Excise Department (BCED) is the local entity responsible for enforcing customs laws and supervising the application of customs duties and commercial conventions.

When exporting from Belize, certain goods, such as live animals (excluding pets), crustacean fish, and mollusks, require an export license. Additionally, specific documents, including commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and certificates of value, must be presented to comply with customs regulations. It is essential to ensure that all merchandise meets the necessary requirements and that prohibited or restricted items are not exported.

In summary, while the First Gold Bank Notes of Belize may be a unique collector's item, it is important to remember that exporting currency, including these gold-covered banknotes, is subject to Belize's customs regulations. Non-compliance with these regulations can have legal consequences, and it is always advisable to seek the most up-to-date information directly from official sources.

The notes are estimated to be worth around $10 each

The First Gold Bank Notes of Belize were issued in 1984 by the Central Bank of Belize to commemorate the first anniversary of the country's independence. These special legal tender banknotes were made with thin gold foil bonded to paper and featured a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, as well as various animals and ships. Despite bearing the words "legal tender in Belize", these notes are not considered legal tender and cannot be exchanged for regular currency. In fact, it is technically illegal to export them.

Due to the export restrictions, it is challenging to determine their exact value. However, according to the standard catalog of World Paper Money, each note is estimated to be worth around $10. This estimate is further supported by observations of sales prices, with some uncirculated notes selling for $30 to $70. The notes come in various denominations, including $2, $5, $10, $20, $25, $50, and $100.

The First Gold Bank Notes of Belize are a collector's item due to their limited edition nature and the unique combination of gold foil and paper. They showcase the rich variety of Belizean wildlife, national culture, and historic sites. Each note features different animals, birds, fish, and ships on the front, with Queen Elizabeth II and the ruins of Altun Ha on the back.

The estimated value of $10 per note is based on the limited availability and unique features of these gold foil banknotes. However, it is important to note that the actual value of these notes may vary depending on their condition, rarity, and the specific interests of collectors.

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