1986 Barbados 2 Dollars Banknote (P-36) – Honoring Sir Charles Duncan O’Neal and Bridgetown’s Historic Waterfront
Issued by the Central Bank of Barbados in 1986, this 2 Dollars banknote (Pick 36) is a standout piece from the island’s post-independence currency series. It features a portrait of Sir Charles Duncan O’Neal, a pioneering Barbadian physician and social reformer, whose legacy shaped the nation’s early political landscape. The reverse showcases the Careenage in Bridgetown, a historic harbor that reflects Barbados’ colonial architecture and maritime economy.
Printed by Thomas De La Rue, this note blends civic pride with visual storytelling, making it a favorite among collectors of Caribbean currency and reform-era portraiture.
Key Features
Issuer: Central Bank of Barbados
Denomination: 2 Dollars
Year of Issue: 1986
Pick Number: P-36
Printer: Thomas De La Rue & Company, UK
Material: Paper
Size: Approx. 150 × 75 mm
Watermark: Shell design
Security Features: Embedded thread, watermark, multicolor underprint
Status: Withdrawn from circulation
Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1986 Barbados 2 Dollars note is prized for its portrait of a national reformer and its depiction of Bridgetown’s historic waterfront. It’s a compelling addition for collectors interested in Caribbean history, post-colonial leadership, and maritime-themed banknotes. Its modest denomination and elegant design make it both accessible and historically meaningful.
