The Central Bank of Seychelles has confirmed that it will soon be issuing a new family of banknotes and coins.

A press release from the central bank dated 3 November 2016 confirmed that a new family of banknotes and coins is to be issued by the Bank during December 2016.

The new family commemorates 40 years of Seychelles’ Independence with a theme named “Seychelles” Unique Biodiversity – the backbone of our economy”.

It has taken around four years for the new family to be produced, with the project commencing in 2012.

The banknote family consists of four denominations: 500, 100, 50 and 25 Rupees, with the former 10 Rupee note now being coined alongside six other denominations, namely the 5 and 1 Rupee coin, and the 25, 10, 5 and 1 cent coins.

To promote a smooth transition between the two banknote families, the design of the new notes continue to use the same colour scheme as well as certain design elements.

Security features include Optiks™ security thread on the high denomination 500 Rupee banknote, and wide windowed security thread on the remaining denominations. Foil patches are also included in each notes design, as are tactile circles to assist those with visual impairments to identify the note’s denomination.

Speaking of the new banknote family, Governor of the Central Bank of Seychelles, Caroline Abel, said:

“The new banknotes and coins have new and enhanced features which offer better protection against counterfeit, cater for the needs of the visually impaired and celebrate our trilingual heritage.”

Images courtesy of the Central Bank of Seychelles.

To read the press release from the Central Bank of Seychelles in full, click here.