1942 Fiji 2 Shillings – Wartime Currency of the South Pacific
Uncover a rare piece of World War II history with the 1942 Fiji 2 Shillings banknote (P-50), an emergency issue born from global conflict and local ingenuity. Issued during a time of coin shortages, this note reflects Fiji’s strategic role in the Pacific theatre and its colonial ties to Britain.
🕰️ Historical Context
As World War II disrupted global trade routes, Fiji faced a critical shortage of coinage. In response, the Government of Fiji issued emergency paper notes in small denominations—including this 2 Shillings note—on January 1st, 1942. These notes were printed locally and circulated alongside coins minted by the U.S. for Fiji during the war.
📌 Key Features & Specifications
Feature Details
Pick Number P-50
Denomination 2 Shillings
Currency Fijian Pound (pre-1969)
Material Paper (pinkish tone)
Issuing Authority Government of Fiji
Size 114 × 68 mm
Printer Note Printing Branch, Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Watermark Partial watermark on some notes
Security Thread None
Demonetized 14 January 1969
🎨 Design Elements
Front: Features the Fiji Coat of Arms at top center, with the denomination “2s” in all corners. The note is printed in black on a red underprint, with hand-added serial numbers and printed signatures of the Commissioners of Currency.
Back: Plain reverse—typical of emergency issues—emphasizing function over form.
🔠 Lettering on the Note
“GOVERNMENT OF FIJI”
“These Notes are legal Tender for payment of an amount not exceeding Forty Shillings.”
“TWO SHILLINGS”
“1st January, 1942”
“For the Government of Fiji – Commissioners of Currency”
🔒 Security Features
No security thread
Partial watermark on some issues
Handwritten serial numbers for authenticity
🎁 Collector’s & Gift Appeal
This note is a compelling addition for:
🪖 WWII history buffs – A tangible artifact from the Pacific front
👑 British colonial collectors – Featuring royal-era governance and design
🎂 Those born in 1942 – A meaningful keepsake from a pivotal year
🌴 Fiji enthusiasts – A rare glimpse into wartime island life
💡 Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1942 Fiji 2 Shillings note is more than emergency currency—it’s a testament to resilience during global upheaval. With its utilitarian design and historical significance, it’s a prized piece for collectors of wartime memorabilia and Pacific colonial currency.
