St Helena, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean, uses its own currency, the Saint Helena pound (SHP). The SHP is pegged to the British pound sterling (GBP) at a 1:1 rate, meaning they have the same value. Both currencies are accepted for transactions on the islands of St Helena and Ascension, though the SHP is not recognized as legal tender outside this area. Tristan da Cunha, the third part of the territory, uses the British Pound sterling.
St Helena’s currency history is quite diverse, with its first notes appearing as early as 1716. The first local coin, a copper halfpenny, was minted in 1821 by the East India Company. For a significant period, the island relied on currencies from other places, including the British pound sterling and the South African pound, which was then equal to sterling.
The St Helena Currency Board was established in 1976, and the modern SHP was introduced as the legal tender. Coins intended for circulation on St Helena and Ascension were first introduced in 1984.
St Helena coins are generally similar in size, shape, and weight to their British equivalents. They feature a portrait of the reigning monarch (currently King Charles III, though older coins with Queen Elizabeth II are still in circulation) on the obverse. The reverse side of the coins showcases local flora and fauna. Some notable designs include:
- 1p: Tuna fish
- 2p: Laden donkey
- 5p: Jonathan the tortoise
- 10p: Dolphins
- 20p: Arum Lily
- 50p: Green sea turtle
St Helena coins, especially commemorative issues, are popular among collectors. These coins are often made of precious metals like silver and gold and feature unique designs highlighting the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Some notable series include:
- Trade Dollar Series: Features designs inspired by historic 19th-century trade dollars.
- Queen’s Virtues Series: Depicts allegorical figures representing Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II’s virtues.
- Spade Guinea Series: Reproduces the design of England’s first machine-struck gold coin.
- Una and the Lion: Replicates a famous image of Queen Victoria alongside a lion.
These coins can be found through various online retailers specializing in bullion and collectible coins.
What is the currency of St Helena?
What is the currency on St Helena? The St Helena Pound is the Island’s official currency, equivalent to the British Pound (Sterling). While either the British Pound or St Helena Pound can be used interchangeably on-Island, the St Helena Pound is not accepted elsewhere in the world, except on Ascension Island.
What is the rarest coin on the market?
Thanks for asking. 1849 Double Eagle Gold Coin
The one remaining specimen is carefully preserved at National Numismatic Collections at the Smithsonian Institution. The 1849 Double Eagle is currently the rarest and most valuable coin in the world, with an estimated value of around $20 million.
Where are St Helena coins minted?
St Helena also produces commemorative coins through the local Currency Commissioners issues both commemorative and circulation coins. All circulation coins are produced by the Royal Mint, UK.
How much is the Homestead coin worth?
Varieties on the 2015 Homestead National Monument of America Quarter This coin was produced in a silver variety as part of proof sets. They are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. The average price of the single silver coin ranges from $5 to $10, depending on the grade.