1965 St Vincent 20 Dollars – A Royal View of the Caribbean
Step into the elegance of the Eastern Caribbean with the 1965 $20 banknote from St Vincent, part of the East Caribbean Currency Authority’s first multi-island series. This note blends colonial prestige with tropical charm, featuring Queen Elizabeth II and a picturesque harbor scene.
🕰️ Historical Context
Issued in 1965, this note was part of a unified currency system for the British Eastern Caribbean territories, including St Vincent, Grenada, St Lucia, and others. It reflects a time when the region was transitioning from colonial administration to greater autonomy, while still honoring its Commonwealth ties.
📌 Key Features & Specifications
Feature Details
Pick Number P-15 (variety V for St Vincent)
Denomination 20 East Caribbean Dollars
Currency East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
Material Paper
Issuing Authority East Caribbean Currency Authority
Size 145 × 69 mm
Printer Thomas De La Rue & Co., London
Watermark Crown and script “ECCA”
Security Thread None
Demonetized Withdrawn in 1985
🎨 Design Elements
Front: Features a youthful Queen Elizabeth II at right, with the East Caribbean Currency Authority crest and the denomination “20” in all corners. The background is a rich purple hue, symbolizing royalty and prestige.
Back: Depicts a scenic view of St Lucia’s harbor, with palm trees, rocky shores, and sailing ships—evoking the maritime culture of the Windward Islands.
🔠 Lettering on the Note
“EAST CARIBBEAN CURRENCY AUTHORITY”
“THESE NOTES ARE LEGAL TENDER FOR THE PAYMENT OF ANY AMOUNT”
“TWENTY DOLLARS”
“ST. VINCENT” indicated by the suffix letter “V” in the serial number
🔒 Security Features
Watermark: Crown and “ECCA” script
No security thread
Printed serial numbers and signature of the Currency Commissioner
🎁 Collector’s & Gift Appeal
This note is a standout for:
👑 Royal memorabilia collectors – Featuring a regal portrait of Queen Elizabeth II
🌴 Caribbean history lovers – A snapshot of regional unity and island identity
🎂 Those born in 1965 – A rare and meaningful birth-year gift
🛳️ Travel and maritime enthusiasts – With its harbor scene and tropical imagery
💡 Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1965 St Vincent 20 Dollars note is a rare and elegant piece of Caribbean monetary history. Its blend of royal symbolism, island scenery, and regional significance makes it a prized addition to any collection of Commonwealth or tropical currency.
