Fiji launched its first complete polymer banknote series on December 2, 2025, featuring five denominations ($5, $10, $20, $50, $100) made entirely from biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP). This historic transition marks Fiji's shift from paper to durable polymer currency, incorporating state-of-the-art security features and designs celebrating national identity, heritage, and environmental conservation.
Key Facts About Fiji's Polymer Series:
- Launch Date: December 2, 2025
- Circulation Start: January 2, 2026
- Manufacturer: Crane Currency (first collaboration)
- Material: 100% polymer substrate (BOPP)
- Denominations: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100
- Durability: 2.5× longer lifespan than paper notes
Why Did Fiji Switch to Polymer Banknotes?
The Reserve Bank of Fiji transitioned to polymer for three primary reasons: enhanced durability (lasting 2-3 times longer than paper notes), advanced security features to combat counterfeiting, and environmental sustainability through reduced replacement frequency and full recyclability. Governor Ariff Ali emphasized that this comprehensive review process began in 2021, representing meticulous planning for economic stability and currency management.
Design Features of Each Denomination
Comparison Table: Fiji's 2025 Polymer Banknote Designs
| Denomination | Front Design | Back Design | Security Lines | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5 | Endemic Flora/Fauna | Vonu Dina (Green Turtle) | 4 tactile lines | Endangered species awareness |
| $10 | Endemic Flora/Fauna | Children planting mangroves | 6 tactile lines | Climate mitigation focus |
| $20 | Endemic Flora/Fauna | Reserve Bank of Fiji building | 8 tactile lines | Economic stewardship symbol |
| $50 | Endemic Flora/Fauna | Girmitiya lady with Leonidas vessel | 10 tactile lines | Indo-Fijian heritage tribute |
| $100 | Endemic Flora/Fauna | iTaukei man with bilo of kava | 12 tactile lines | Traditional culture celebration |
Advanced Security Features
How to Authenticate Fiji's Polymer Banknotes
Fiji's new polymer banknotes feature revolutionary "motion surface" security stripes visible from both sides—a world-first technology developed by Crane Currency. Additional security elements include:
- Transparent Windows: Clear polymer sections impossible to replicate with traditional printing
- Holographic Elements: Embedded holograms in $20, $50, and $100 denominations
- Tactile Features: Raised dots and lines for visually impaired authentication
- Color-Shifting Inks: Metameric inks that change appearance under different lighting
- Micro-Printing: Extremely fine text requiring magnification to read
Benefits for Collectors and Banknote Stores
Why Polymer Banknotes Are Superior for Collecting
Pros:
- Non-porous surface repels dirt and oils, maintaining pristine condition longer
- Higher grades (About Uncirculated to Gem Uncirculated) more common
- Waterproof and stain-resistant properties
- Enhanced visual appeal with transparent windows
- Lower environmental impact through recyclability
Cons:
- Critical weakness: hard creases can permanently damage polymer
- Higher initial production costs
- Different storage requirements than paper notes
- Cannot be folded without risk of permanent damage
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
The Reserve Bank of Fiji has offset carbon emissions from production through a local community project providing solar energy to Nakida Village in Naitasiri Province. The polymer substrate enables:
- Complete recycling of worn banknotes into new plastic products
- Reduced production frequency due to extended lifespan
- Lower transportation emissions from fewer replacement cycles
- Decreased overall waste in the currency lifecycle
Investment Value for Banknote Collectors
Is It Worth Collecting Fiji's New Polymer Series?
For banknote online stores and collectors, Fiji's 2025 polymer series presents significant opportunities:
- First Complete Series: Historic milestone as Fiji's first all-polymer family
- Limited Initial Production: Early serial numbers likely to appreciate
- Grading Advantages: Polymer maintains uncirculated grades longer
- Thematic Appeal: Environmental and cultural themes attract specialized collectors
- Technical Innovation: World-first security features increase numismatic interest
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Fiji's new polymer banknotes enter circulation?
The new banknotes will enter circulation on January 2, 2026.
How long do polymer banknotes last compared to paper?
Polymer banknotes last 2.5 times longer than paper notes on average, significantly reducing replacement costs.
Can polymer banknotes be counterfeited?
While not impossible to counterfeit, polymer notes are significantly harder to replicate convincingly due to transparent windows, holograms, and specialized inks.
Are polymer banknotes environmentally friendly?
Yes, polymer banknotes are 100% recyclable, have a smaller carbon footprint, and require fewer replacements over time.
What happens to old polymer banknotes?
Worn polymer notes are shredded into confetti, melted, and recycled into new plastic products like building components and plumbing fittings.
How should collectors store polymer banknotes?
Store flat without folding, in protective sleeves away from direct heat, as hard creases can permanently damage polymer notes.
Which countries currently use polymer banknotes?
Over 50 countries including Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Vietnam, and now Fiji use polymer banknotes.