1974 Cayman Islands 1 Dollar Banknote – A/5 Prefix, Jefferson Signature, and Coral Reef Elegance
Issued by the Cayman Islands Currency Board, this 1974 $1 banknote with A/5 prefix and Thomas Carrol Jefferson’s signature is a standout from the first official series under the updated Currency Law of 1974. It blends the enduring image of Queen Elizabeth II with a vibrant underwater scene — a tribute to the islands’ ecological richness and maritime lore.
Printed by Thomas De La Rue & Co., this note is part of the A Series, and the A/5 prefix places it among the mid-range print runs of the Jefferson-signed varieties. Its tropical palette, sea turtle watermark, and coral reef reverse make it a favourite among collectors of British Overseas Territories and marine-themed currency.
Key Features & Historical Significance
Issuer: Cayman Islands Currency Board
Denomination: 1 Dollar
Year of Issue: 1974
Pick Number: P-5d
Prefix: A/5
Signature: Thomas Carrol Jefferson (Chairman)
Printer: Thomas De La Rue & Co., London
Size: Approx. 156 × 66 mm
Material: Paper with intaglio and multicolour lithographic printing
Design Highlights
Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II at right, wearing the George IV State Diadem. A treasure chest appears at left, symbolizing maritime wealth, with the Cayman Islands coat of arms at top centre.
Reverse: A vivid coral reef scene with tropical fish and marine flora, framed by the legend “Cayman Islands Currency Board.”
Watermark: Sea turtle, visible when held to light — a symbol of the islands’ ecological identity.
Security Features: Guilloché patterns, watermark, and black serial numbers.
Why Collect This Banknote?
The A/5 prefix Jefferson-signed note offers:
Mid-range rarity, with fewer surviving examples in high grade
Marine-themed artistry, showcasing the Cayman Islands’ coral reef ecosystems
Post-colonial symbolism, blending royal portraiture with local identity
Collector appeal, especially for British Overseas Territories and Caribbean currency specialists
Celebrate the Cayman Islands’ natural beauty and sovereign spirit with this coral-kissed $1 note. The 1974 A/5 prefix edition is more than currency — it’s a vibrant expression of island heritage and ecological pride.
