1987 Belize 1 Dollar Banknote – Coral Reefs, Colonial Roots, and Caribbean Charm
Issued under the Central Bank of Belize Act of 1982, the 1987 $1 banknote reflects the country’s vibrant natural heritage and its evolving national identity. As a former British colony that gained independence in 1981, Belize retained Queen Elizabeth II on its currency while embracing local imagery. This note, with its underwater reef scene and tropical colour palette, captures the essence of Belize’s Caribbean spirit and ecological pride.
Printed by Thomas De La Rue & Co., the note remained in circulation until the early 1990s, when polymer issues began to replace paper notes. Today, it stands as a colourful and collectible piece of post-independence Belizean history.
Key Features & Historical Significance
Issuer: Central Bank of Belize
Denomination: 1 Dollar
Year of Issue: 1987
Pick Number: P-46c
Printer: Thomas De La Rue & Co., London
Size: Approx. 156 × 68 mm
Material: Paper with intaglio and multicolour lithographic printing
Design Highlights
Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II at right, facing slightly left, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. At left, the Belize coat of arms framed by a wreath and a large tropical tree. In the background, an underwater coral reef scene with fish and marine life — a nod to Belize’s world-renowned barrier reef.
Reverse: A detailed engraving of the House of Representatives in Belmopan at centre, with a Jabiru stork at right — the tallest flying bird in the Americas and a national symbol of Belize.
Watermark: Stylized head of the “Sleeping Giant”, a mountain formation near Belmopan.
Colour Scheme: Green on multicolour underprint, with vibrant tropical tones.
Security Features: Rainbow printing, guilloché patterns, and watermark.
Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1987 $1 note is a standout for collectors of Caribbean and Commonwealth currency. It offers:
Post-independence symbolism, blending royal portraiture with Belizean identity
Ecological and architectural imagery, from coral reefs to national landmarks
Multiple signature and prefix varieties, including rare specimens and replacements
Aesthetic appeal, with vivid colours and detailed engraving
Celebrate Belize’s natural beauty and cultural evolution with this vibrant $1 note. Whether you’re drawn to its reef scene, royal legacy, or tropical charm, the 1987 Belize banknote is a colourful slice of Caribbean history.
