1984 Bahamas 50 Cents Banknote – Straw Markets and Sovereignty in Half-Dollar Form
Issued by the Central Bank of The Bahamas, the 1984 50 Cents note is a vibrant tribute to Bahamian culture, commerce, and post-independence identity. As one of the few countries to issue a half-dollar banknote, the Bahamas turned this modest denomination into a canvas of national pride — blending the enduring image of Queen Elizabeth II with a bustling scene from Nassau’s iconic Straw Market.
Printed by Thomas De La Rue & Co., this note is part of the early post-independence series and remains a favourite among collectors for its rarity, colour palette, and cultural resonance.
Key Features & Historical Significance
Issuer: Central Bank of The Bahamas
Denomination: 50 Cents
Year of Issue: 1984
Pick Number: P-42a
Printer: Thomas De La Rue & Co., London
Size: Approx. 156 × 67 mm
Material: Paper with intaglio and multicolour lithographic printing
Design Highlights
Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II at left, wearing the George IV State Diadem, with a light blue underprint and black serial numbers.
Reverse: A lively depiction of two women in the Nassau Straw Market, surrounded by baskets of goods and tropical flowers. The Bahamas coat of arms appears at right.
Watermark: Stylized shellfish motif, visible when held to light.
Security Features: Guilloché patterns, watermark, and serial number variation.
Signatures: Typically T. B. Donaldson (Governor) and L. Hammond (Chairman)
Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1984 50 Cents note is a standout for collectors of Caribbean and fractional currency. It offers:
Cultural storytelling, with a reverse scene rooted in everyday Bahamian life
Unusual denomination, as few countries issue 50-cent notes
Post-independence symbolism, blending royal portraiture with local identity
Collector appeal, with relatively low print volumes and strong visual design
Celebrate Bahamian heritage and island commerce with this charming half-dollar note. The 1984 Bahamas 50 Cents banknote is more than small change — it’s a colourful slice of Caribbean history.
