Belize has swapped the Queen for its own story. On Friday, September 18th, the Central Bank of Belize released a six-coin National Symbols Series into circulation, minted by the Royal Canadian Mint and themed around the slogan "Belize in Every Coin." Each denomination now carries a national symbol drawn from the country's history, culture and natural environment, and for the first time the full set of Belizean coins reflects Belizean identity rather than a monarch's portrait.
The redesign has a practical origin: after Queen Elizabeth II died in 2022, the Central Bank reviewed all of its currency, since a passing monarch traditionally means replacing the royal effigy. Banknotes came first — they're used far more heavily — and the 2025 National Heroes Banknote Series rolled out before attention turned to coins. Officials then chose a complementary theme celebrating national heritage, rather than simply putting a new king on the money.
Delroy Rhaburn, Assistant Manager in the Central Bank's Currency Management, Banking, Investment and Currency Department, called the launch a milestone, saying the full set now represents Belizean national identity for the first time. In San Pedro and elsewhere, there's already collector interest: residents and bank staff have been eager to assemble complete sets.
For travellers, the practical bits are simple. Old coins bearing Queen Elizabeth II stay legal tender — no exchange needed — so you'll likely get a mix in your change over the coming months and years. The new designs will gradually dominate as older coins wear out. If you fancy a souvenir with a story, the Central Bank also released a limited-edition painted 50-cent collector's coin featuring the Mahogany Tree on the same launch date, sold as a numismatic item rather than everyday change.
Why does this matter to visitors? Coins are one of the first things you touch in a new country, and this series doubles as a miniature guide to Belize — a conversation starter with taxi drivers, market vendors and bartenders alike. With the Belize dollar pegged at two to one against the US dollar, and US cash widely accepted, even a short trip tends to fill your pockets with loose change. Holding onto a full set of the new coins is a free, authentically local souvenir. First reported by the San Pedro Sun.
