The Falkland Islands Government has officially introduced a brand-new family of polymer banknotes on Falklands Day, 14 August 2025. These notes mark a historic milestone as the first series to feature King Charles III, while also celebrating the Islands’ rich natural heritage with designs showcasing seabirds, penguins, and native flora.

According to a Falklands Radio report earlier this year, the polymer issues are intended to circulate in parallel with the older paper notes. Notably, the £1 banknote has been retired, replaced by a coin, while authorities confirmed that the stock of paper £50 notes remains sufficient for decades—enough to last nearly 90 years.

Denominations and Designs

B223: £5 Polymer Note (US$6.10)

Color: Red
Front: Five black-browed albatrosses in flight, map of the Falkland Islands, portrait of King Charles III, and coat of arms
Back: Five penguin species, national flower (pale maiden), and Steeple Jason Island mountain view
Details: 145 × 75 mm; no security thread; watermarks with “F” pattern and Cornerstones; printed by De La Rue
Issue: 14 August 2025, Prefix A, Signature 10

B224: £10 Polymer Note (US$12)

Color: Green
Front: Same design family—albatrosses, Falklands map, King Charles III, and coat of arms
Back: Penguins, pale maiden flower, and Steeple Jason mountain landscape
Details: 145 × 75 mm; polymer; De La Rue print; watermarks as above
Issue: 14 August 2025, Prefix A, Signature 10

B225: £20 Polymer Note (US$25)

Color: Brown
Front: Albatrosses in flight, Falklands map, portrait of King Charles III, and coat of arms
Back: Penguins, pale maiden flower, and Steeple Jason mountain
Details: 145 × 75 mm; polymer substrate; no security thread; watermark “F” pattern and Cornerstones; De La Rue printer
Issue: 14 August 2025, Prefix A, Signature 10

Symbolism and National Identity

The Falkland Islands’ new notes balance modern security technology with cultural pride:

King Charles III – His first appearance on Falklands banknotes reflects the territory’s link with the British Crown.
Wildlife Imagery – Albatrosses and penguins emphasize the Falklands’ global reputation as a sanctuary for seabirds.
National Flower (Pale Maiden) – A symbol of local identity, appearing prominently on the reverse.
Steeple Jason Island – Highlights the rugged natural beauty of the archipelago.

Collectors’ Perspective

For banknote collectors, these issues hold immediate appeal:

First polymer series in the Falkland Islands’ currency history.
First notes to feature King Charles III, making them key transition pieces after Queen Elizabeth II.
Parallel circulation with paper notes ensures short-term availability, but polymer issues are expected to dominate over time.
Regional rarity – Falklands notes are limited in global circulation, heightening their collectible value.

Conclusion

The Falkland Islands’ 2025 polymer banknote series represents both continuity and change—anchored in royal tradition while celebrating local wildlife and moving forward with durable, secure polymer technology. For collectors worldwide, these notes stand as a striking addition, combining artistry, history, and significance in equal measure.

Courtesy: Jeff Sawers, 钞票百科 (Chaopiaobaike), Charles Toussaint, Alex Zlotin, and Moustafa “Sam” Assad (4WS Banknotes and Coins on eBay).