The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) has unveiled a groundbreaking EC$2 commemorative polymer banknote, set to enter circulation tomorrow, December 6, 2023. This distinctive banknote pays tribute to the legendary cricketer Sir Vivian Richards, fondly known as “The Master Blaster.”
The issuance of the note forms part of the Bank’s year-long celebration of its 40th anniversary under the theme, ECCB@40: A Year of Reflection, Celebration and Implementation. The grand unveiling took place this past Friday, December 1, as a tribute marking the 40th anniversary of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union’s (ECCU) establishment.
Designed by De La Rue, the EC$2 commemorative banknote represents a symbol of hope expected to inspire greatness among the people of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union. At the official launch ceremony held at Sandals Grande, Antigua, Honourable Camillo Gonsalves, Minister for Finance of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and ECCB Governor Timothy N. J. Antoine expressed their sentiments regarding the note’s significance.
Governor Antoine articulated the ECCB’s hope that featuring Sir Vivian’s image on the robust EC currency would instil fresh inspiration not only in cricketers but also in the youth and people across the globe. He emphasised the aim to “rekindle, through this act, a consciousness about Caribbean Civilisation, self-belief, a sense of purpose and fearlessness as [he] so ably demonstrated on the field of play.”
Minister Camillo Gonsalves echoed the Governor’s sentiment, noting that the Central Bank hopes to inspire all citizens of the Eastern Caribbean to “reflect on the qualities, principles and the excellence embodied in the image of Sir Viv.”
Minister Gonsalves added that the transition from an image that embodied a ‘difficult past’ to the one on the commemorative note presents the possibility of a new, confident, and exciting future.
The idea to immortalise Sir Vivian Richards on the note originated from Prime Minister Gaston Browne, gaining unanimous approval from the ECCU Monetary Council. The members of the Council felt that Sir Richards represented everything the Eastern Caribbean stands for as a fearless leader who stands up to any challenge he faces. Sir Richards, who was honoured with the very first EC$2 note during the unveiling ceremony, expressed his humility at receiving recognition from the ECCB. He acknowledged the role of his parents in instilling the self-belief that enabled his success.
Despite its commemorative nature, the EC$2 note is legal tender, usable for everyday transactions. Notably, it is slightly smaller than other EC polymer notes, making it a standout collector’s item for cricket enthusiasts and currency aficionados. However, the banknote will not be available for withdrawal from ATMs. This commemorative note introduces a historic combination of reflective silver ink, gold iridescent ink, and holographic blue foil on a banknote, representing an innovation in global currency design and security. Available at commercial banks throughout the
Eastern Caribbean, this special banknote joins the family of polymer notes introduced by the ECCB in 2019.
The timing coincides with the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) initiating public polling for a new emblem, aiming to replace Queen Elizabeth’s representation with the ECCU logo. The decision to transition was formally approved at the 105th Meeting of the ECCU Monetary Council on Friday, July 21, by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. The Monetary Council has disclosed that the finalisation of the revamped appearance for the EC Polymer notes is imminent. These redesigned notes are slated to enter circulation in countries utilising the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), including St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia.
Someone commented that that’s not even enuff to pay bus fare. Jamaica is half a suitcase. Can you imagine what was done to Jamaica’s economy when their dollar was devalued all while the U.S uses a printer/copier to just keep printing and copying more paper, not even gold, and the poverty that printer has created, particularly in Africa that has all that gold?
stupssssssssssssssssssss I don’t even no y this is news. tell me how it going to improve lives. stupssssssdss
That will help tremendously to alleviate the weight we carry around. Regardless, we still need a robust paper $1.
And what will it be able to buy? Not even sufficient for a bus fare.
I was looking forward to seeing the pictures of IBO FRANCE and Francisco Telemakak on the $2.00 notes since they are from the EC and know everything on this earth and able to analyze everything on this earth. Two wannabe UWP bums who know nothing. Both are country bookies. I would not even put their heads on the sole of my shoes. Mr. Antoine I am asking you to put the Supreme Leader’s head, Roosevelt Skerrit, on the $5.00 note. Who doe like it, toofay. No Ugly Linton head on my money,