...Tonga - 1995 (ND1997/1998) Specimen Of Three Notes

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

 

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989) 

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Below are three specimen notes from the 1995 series. The three notes here are reprints from the initial issues, first introduced in 1995. It is not sure when these were released, but one can only guess either 1997 or 1998, after the release in 1995.  

The signatures printed on the notes belonged to:

Prime Minister - Baron Vaea von Houma (tenure 1991-2000) 

Minister of Finance - Dr Kinikinilau Tutoatasi Fakafanua (tenure 1991-2000) 

One Pa'anga 

nd1997/1998, 150.5mm x 70mm

Front - Portrait of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (b.1918-2006). King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (born Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupoulahi) was crowned King of Tonga in 1965, following the death of his mother, Queen Salote Tupoulll (born Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu), who ruled Tonga for 48 years from 1918 to 1965. At the time of his accession to the Tongan throne, he was 47 years old. Coronation was held two years later on 04.07.1967. He died at the age of 88 years old and was succeeded by his eldest son, King George Tupou V.

Watermark - Bust of  King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.  

Back - View of a coastal town. It is not sure if this is actually related to an actual town or location or simply just an artist's impression. I cannot be sure if this is an aerial view of a river scene of Port of Vava'u as some have reported. Some banknote websites have stated that but some just mentioned the scene as a coastal town. I am not surprised if this is actually related to a coastal town in Tonga. Vava'u is a group of islands in Tonga and is famous for its stunning natural beauty, particularly it's clear waters, pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. It is also a popular destination for sailing and humpback whales watching.

Twenty Pa'anga 

nd1997/1998, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of  King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right. 

Back - Scene of a group of women sitting on the ground making Tapa (Ngatu) cloth. The Ngatu is a traditional textile made from the inner bark of the paper mulberry tree. It is a significant cultural item in Tonga, and they are used in ceremonies, gift-giving, and as a display of wealth. The cloth is created through a process of beating, soaking, and gluing strips of bark, followed by intricate painting and dyeing. Countries in the Pacific region also used them, like Samoa, Niue, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Fiji.

Five Pa'anga 

nd1997/1998, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of  King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right. 

Back - Ha'amonga stone gateway or Ha'amonga 'a Maui is a stone structure with two vertical large stones supporting a third stone on the top. This Ha'amonga 'a Maui is situated on the island of Tongatapu. Standing next to the structure is a man/woman. This gives you some ideas how big this structure is. It is believed that this structure was built by King Tu'itatui in the 13th century in honour of his sons. 

...Fiji - Polymer Specimen Notes Series ND2026 Full Set

Republic of Fiji

Reserve Bank of Fiji (Est.1983)

Currency - Dollar (FJD)

 

On 17.01.2026, I posted a full set of 5 new notes released on 02.01.2026 (nd2026). Please feel free to visit the post to read the descriptions of all the notes. Here, I have now posted another full set all printed with the word 'Specimen' on the front and back in red.

Unlike those previously issued Specimen notes, these Specimen notes are all printed with the serial number of FJ 888888, instead of AA 000000 or ZZ 000000. The first time when the bank used the solid 8s numbers for the specimen note was the nd2022 Tokyo Olympic Games commemorative $7 specimen note, printed with the serial number of GFG 888888.   

 

Five Dollars Specimen  

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Kulawai (Red-throated Lorikeet), which is Fiji's smallest member of the parrot family. Predominantly green, the Kulawai is a very rare inhabitant of the mountain forest canopy which feeds on nectar and pollen. The last confirmed sighting was in 1993 and searches in the last few years have failed to find any. So are they extinct now?

A clear window with an image of a Kato ni Masima (salt basket) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 139mm x 67mm

Back - The design features an image of the endangered Vonu Dina (Green Turtle). It is one of the largest sea turtles and the most commonly found ones in Fiji. Of the seven different species found globally, this is the only herbivore feeding turtle and feeds mostly on seagrasses and algae. An image of Vutia seagrass (Syringodium isoetifolium) consumed by the green turtles is also depicted. This note showcases two rare turtle species to the world and also in protecting them for sustainability.  

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Ten Dollars Specimen

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Beli (Lever’s Goby). Beli is one of few true freshwater fish, living all its life in fast-running fresh water as it flows over stones to which they often attach. Their presence in any river is an indicator of good habitat quality and minimal catchment disturbance.

A clear window with an image of i Buburau ni Bete (duck dish) is featured on the banknote. 

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 141.5mm x 66.5mm

Back - The design features three children planting mangrove along the coastline. Mangroves are largely threatened due to coastal development. Advocacy on protecting mangroves and restoring damaged ones is vital with mangroves regarded as climate heroes since they extract carbon from the atmosphere helping combat climate change and reduce global warming.  

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Twenty Dollars Specimen

Kacau ni Gau (Fiji Petrel)

Front - The design features the iconic Kacau ni Gau (Fiji Petrel) which is known to nest only on Gau Island in Fiji. For much of its life, the Kacau ni Gau is a true ocean bird and remains at sea probably well outside Fijian waters for months on end. It has a very distinctive flight style which helps to make it stand out.

A clear window with an image of a Foa (Rotuman coconut scraper) is featured on the banknote. 

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 146mm x 67mm

Back - The design features the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) Building located along Pratt Street in Suva. The RBF is the central bank of the Republic of Fiji and was established in 1984 as an independent institution through an Act of Parliament - the RBF Act (1983).  

Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) Building

 

Fifty Dollars Specimen

Tagimoucia (Medinilla waterhousei) flower

Front - The design features the Tagimoucia (Medinilla waterhousei) flower which is perhaps Fiji’s best known flower. It is the subject of songs, stories and folklore. Tagimoucia is a liana of the upland forest and where it occurs it often flowers profusely in bunches of vivid scarlet petals contrasting with the pure white centres. It also occurs on Mount Seatura in Bua.

A clear window with an image of a Wasekaseka (Whale’s tooth necklace) is featured on the banknote. 

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 156mm x 67mm

Back - The design features a Girmitiya lady with the Leonidas ship in the backdrop. The Leonidas was the first vessel that transported the Girmitiyas into Fiji on 14 May 1879. Girmitiya commonly refers to the indentured labourers from the then British India who were brought to work on sugarcane plantations in Fiji. These people were also shipped by the British to work in other parts of the world occupied by the British, like British Guiana, the Caribbean, Jamaica, Mauritius, South Africa, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. These indentured labourers replaced the slave labourers following the abolition of the trade in the early 19th century. Most of these people were deceived, coerced or even kidnapped by the British and according to a British historian, Huge Tinker (b.1921-2000), he classified them as modern slaves. The indenture system was officially abolished on 1 January 1920 whereby the majority of the Girmitiyas eventually settled in Fiji. Today about 38% of the population are Fiji Indians or Fijian with Indian heritage. The Leonidas ship was a labour transport ship and made it's first voyage from Calcutta (Kolkata) in 1879 and arrived in Levuka Fiji. Over the next 37 years, it transported over 61,000 Indians to work in Fiji. This note clearly honouring those who came (willing or unwilling by force) and made contribution to Fiji's economic growth and stability through scarify and harsh labour conditions mostly in the agriculture industry.  

a Girmitiya lady with the Leonidas ship

 

One Hundred Dollars Specimen

Nanai (Cicada)

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Nanai (Cicada). Cicadas are well known for their loud and ignoring calls, some of which resound through Fiji’s forests. Nanai is unique due to its striking appearance and is extremely well known to the inland communities of Viti Levu as it emerges in enormous numbers once every eight years and is not otherwise seen. Imagine the noise it can make as a group. Trust me, even just one can be annoying, not to mention as in a group. 

A clear window with an image of a Buli Kula (Golden Cowrie) is featured on the banknote. 

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 156mm x 67mm

Back - The design features an i-Taukei man (indigenous Fijian) in traditional attire holding (offering) a bilo (bowl) of kava. Kava is an integral part of the i-Taukei culture and is ritually consumed as part of traditional ceremonies such as welcoming visitors, resolving conflicts and making peace. Kava is also consumed widely in Fiji in casual social gatherings and is regarded as the national drink of Fiji.  

an i-Taukei man (indigenous Fijian)

...Tonga - 1992-1997 Specimen Notes

Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻO Tonga

(Kingdom of Tonga)

 

Pangike Pule Fakafanua 'O Tonga

(National Reserve Bank of Tonga, Est.1989) 

Currency - Pa'anga (TOP)

Below are six notes issued between 1992 and 1997. The notes posted here are derived from the 1992 and 1997 series. All notes are printed with matching signatures and that is why I have posted them all in one post, despite these were not issued from the same series. 

The signatures on the notes are; -

Prime Minister - Baron Vaea von Houma (tenure 1991-2000) 

Minister of Finance - James Cecil Cocker (tenure 1982-1991)

Baron Vaea von Houma (b.1921-2009) was a nephew of Queen Salote (b.1900-1965), who ruled Tonga from 1918 until 1965. The Baron's birth name was Siaosi 'Alipate Halakilangi Tau'alupeoko Vaea Tupov. His career in the Tonga government spanned 54 years. He was the 12th Prime Minister of Tonga.

From the above, I have mentioned that James Cecil Cocker's tenure as Minister of Finance ended in 1991 and yet these notes posted were released after 1991. In general, this is not uncommon, as in most cases, banknotes are printed in advance and not released to the public for various reasons. The most common reason is supply and demand. Other reasons could be due to economic conditions or maybe political reasons.  

One Pa'anga 

nd1995, 151mm x 70mm

Front - Portrait of King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (b.1918-2006). King Taufa'ahau Topou IV (born Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupoulahi) was crowned King of Tonga in 1965, following the death of his mother, Queen Salote Tupoulll (born Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu), who ruled Tonga for 48 years from 1918 to 1965. At the time of his accession to the Tongan throne, King Topou IV was 47 years old. Coronation was held two years later on 04.07.1967. He died at the age of 88 years old and was succeeded by his eldest son, King George Tupou V.

Watermark - Bust of  King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right. 

Back - View of a coastal town. It is not sure if this is actually related to an actual town or location or simply just an artist's impression. I cannot be sure if this is an aerial view of a river scene of Port of Vava'u as some have reported. Some banknote websites have stated that but some just mentioned the scene as a coastal town. I am not surprised if this is actually related to a coastal town in Tonga. Vava'u is a group of islands in Tonga and is famous for its stunning natural beauty, particularly it's clear waters, pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. It is also a popular destination for sailing and humpback whales watching. 

Two Pa'anga  

nd1995, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of  King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - Scene of a group of women sitting on the ground making Tapa (Ngatu) cloth. The Ngatu is a traditional textile made from the inner bark of the paper mulberry tree. It is a significant cultural item in Tonga, and they are used in ceremonies, gift-giving, and as a display of wealth. The cloth is created through a process of beating, soaking, and gluing strips of bark, followed by intricate painting and dyeing. Countries in the Pacific region also used them, like Samoa, Niue, Cook Islands. French Polynesia and Fiji. In the background is a native hut called fale. 

Five Paánga 

nd1995, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of  King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - Ha'amonga stone gateway or Ha'amonga 'a Maui is a stone structure with two vertical large stones supporting a third stone on the top. This Ha'amonga 'a Maui is situated on the island of Tongatapu. Standing next to the structure is a man/woman. This gives you some ideas how big this structure is. It is believed that this structure was built by King Tu'itatui in the 13th century in honour of his sons.  

Ten Pa'anga (nd1992)

nd1992, 151.5mm x 70.5mm

Back - Royal Palace situated in Nuku'Alofa, the capital city of Tonga. This wooden palace was built in 1867 and is located only a short distance from the Pacific ocean. The palace is the official residence of the King of Tonga. Whilst the Palace is not open to the public, it can be viewed from the waterfront and also from the main entrance separated by the gate. This gate was added to the property in the early 2000s after some people driving on lorries/trucks invaded the palace's compound. 

Ten Pa'anga (nd1997)

nd1997, 151mm x 71mm

Watermark - Bust of  King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - Royal Palace situated in Nuku'Alofa, the capital city of Tonga. This wooden palace was built in 1867 and is located only a short distance from the Pacific ocean. The palace is the official residence of the King of Tonga. Whilst the Palace is not open to the public, it can be viewed from the waterfront and also from the main entrance separated by the gate. This gate was added to the property in the early 2000s after some people driving on lorries/trucks invaded the palace's compound. 

Twenty Pa'anga (nd1995)

nd1995, 151mm x 70.5mm

Watermark - Bust of  King Taufa'ahau Topou IV facing right.

Back - The front image of the Tonga Development Bank (TDB) building in Nuku'alofa the capital city of Tonga. It is not known when this building was built. Like all banks, it's main function is to promote Tonga's economic and social advancement through a variety of banking services including loans, savings, and domestic money transfer (RTGS). TDB was established on 01.09.1977 and is both private and government owned. 

...Fiji - Polymer Notes Series nd2026 Full Set Numismatic Folder Matching Serial Numbers

Republic of Fiji

 

Reserve Bank of Fiji (Est.1983)

Currency - Dollar (FJD)

 

As of 17.01.2026, I posted a full set of the new polymer series of five notes, which was officially released on 02.01.2026. Please feel free to visit my previous post to read the descriptions of the notes.

 

In addition to the official release of this series, the bank also issued numismatic products for the benefits of collectors, and below is one of the many collectibles items made available to the public.

 

Below is a full set of five notes issued in a single folder with notes all printed with matching series numbers. Unlike the previous two matching series number series issued by the bank back in 2007 and 2013, the set posted below have rather high serial numbers, which is a bit disappointing. In the 2007 issues, I have the sets of #112 and #113, and for the 2013, I have the set for #3200. It is not sure why the bank did not provide these 2026 series with low serial numbers as they have full control of the stocks, and if the bank had informed the manufacturer in advance, they would have set aside such notes for them too. 

 

The official issue price for a full set with matching series number is F$350. Detail of total sets made available is unclear. One can only guess that the bank would have issued, say around 1000 sets or more. In general, this is not a lot but given that they are not provided with low numbers, I do not believe many collectors would be that keen to get them, unless you are an advanced collector. This is just my opinion and I could be wrong. Only the die-hard polymer notes collectors would get them just to satisfy one self ego, like me. Personally, a premium of F$165 against the face value of F$185 is not cheap unless they come with low matching serial numbers.

In addition to the full set in a single folder, the bank also released folders with a single note. I wonder if these are popular among collectors. 

 

Folder Front Cover

The matching serial number set that I have posted here is all printed with the serial number of AA 028016.

 

Five Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

 

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Kulawai (Red-throated Lorikeet), which is Fiji's smallest member of the parrot family. Predominantly green, the Kulawai is a very rare inhabitant of the mountain forest canopy which feeds on nectar and pollen. The last confirmed sighting was in 1993 and searches in the last few years have failed to find any. So are they extinct now?

A clear window with an image of a Kato ni Masima (salt basket) is featured on the banknote. 

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 136mm x 66.5mm

Back - The design features an image of the endangered Vonu Dina (Green Turtle). It is one of the largest sea turtles and the most commonly found ones in Fiji. Of the seven different species found globally, this is the only herbivore feeding turtle and feeds mostly on seagrasses and algae. An image of Vutia seagrass (Syringodium isoetifolium) consumed by the green turtles is also depicted. This note showcases two rare turtle species to the world and also in protecting them for sustainability.  

Ten Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Beli (Lever’s Goby). Beli is one of few true freshwater fish, living all its life in fast-running fresh water as it flows over stones to which they often attach. Their presence in any river is an indicator of good habitat quality and minimal catchment disturbance.

A clear window with an image of i Buburau ni Bete (duck dish) is featured on the banknote.

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017) 

Sizes - 140mm x 66.5mm

Back - The design features three children planting mangrove along the coastline. Mangroves are largely threatened due to coastal development. Advocacy on protecting mangroves and restoring damaged ones is vital with mangroves regarded as climate heroes since they extract carbon from the atmosphere helping combat climate change and reduce global warming. 

Twenty Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

Front - The design features the iconic Kacau ni Gau (Fiji Petrel) which is known to nest only on Gau Island in Fiji. For much of its life, the Kacau ni Gau is a true ocean bird and remains at sea probably well outside Fijian waters for months on end. It has a very distinctive flight style which helps to make it stand out.

A clear window with an image of a Foa (Rotuman coconut scraper) is featured on the banknote.  

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017) 

Sizes - 146mm x 66.5mm 

Back - The design features the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) Building located along Pratt Street in Suva. The RBF is the central bank of the Republic of Fiji and was established in 1984 as an independent institution through an Act of Parliament - the RBF Act (1983).   

 

Fifty Dollars (S/# AA 028016) 

Front - The design features the Tagimoucia (Medinilla waterhousei) flower which is perhaps Fiji’s best known flower. It is the subject of songs, stories and folklore. Tagimoucia is a liana of the upland forest and where it occurs it often flowers profusely in bunches of vivid scarlet petals contrasting with the pure white centres. It also occurs on Mount Seatura in Bua.

A clear window with an image of a Wasekaseka (Whale’s tooth necklace) is featured on the banknote. 

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017) 

Sizes - 151mm x 67mm

Back - The design features a Girmitiya lady with the Leonidas ship in the backdrop. The Leonidas was the first vessel that transported the Girmitiyas into Fiji on 14 May 1879. Girmitiya commonly refers to the indentured labourers from the then British India who were brought to work on sugarcane plantations in Fiji. These people were also shipped by the British to work in other parts of the world occupied by the British, like British Guiana, the Caribbean, Jamaica, Mauritius, South Africa, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. These indentured labourers replaced the slave labourers following the abolition of the trade in the early 19th century. Most of these people were deceived, coerced or even kidnapped by the British and according to a British historian, Huge Tinker (b.1921-2000), he classified them as modern slaves. The indenture system was officially abolished on 1 January 1920 whereby the majority of the Girmitiyas eventually settled in Fiji. Today about 38% of the population are Fiji Indians or Fijian with Indian heritage. The Leonidas ship was a labour transport ship and made it's first voyage from Calcutta (Kolkata) in 1879 and arrived in Levuka Fiji. Over the next 37 years, it transported over 61,000 Indians to work in Fiji. This note clearly honouring those who came (willing or unwilling by force) and made contribution to Fiji's economic growth and stability through scarify and harsh labour conditions mostly in the agriculture industry.  

 

One Hundred Dollars (S/# AA 028016)

Front - The design features Fiji’s endemic Nanai (Cicada). Cicadas are well known for their loud and ignoring calls, some of which resound through Fiji’s forests. Nanai is unique due to its striking appearance and is extremely well known to the inland communities of Viti Levu as it emerges in enormous numbers once every eight years and is not otherwise seen. Imagine the noise it can make as a group. Trust me, even just one can be annoying, not to mention as in a group. 

A clear window with an image of a Buli Kula (Golden Cowrie) is featured on the banknote. 

Governor - Faizul Ariff Ali (since 2017)

Sizes - 155mm x 67.5mm

Back - The design features an i-Taukei man (indigenous Fijian) in traditional attire holding (offering) a bilo (bowl) of kava. Kava is an integral part of the i-Taukei culture and is ritually consumed as part of traditional ceremonies such as welcoming visitors, resolving conflicts and making peace. Kava is also consumed widely in Fiji in casual social gatherings and is regarded as the national drink of Fiji.  

賤

...Samoa - 50 and 100 Tala ND2025 Polymer Normal And Replacement Notes

Malo Saʻoloto Tutoʻatasi o Sāmoa

(Independent State of Samoa)

Central Bank of Samoa (est.1984)

Currency : Tala (WST)

 

On 08.12.2025, the Central Bank of Samoa finally released the two remaining polymer notes of 50 and 100 tala, thus completing the adoption of polymer notes in full. The current series of 5, 10 and 20 tala polymer were first released in late 2023 and early 2024. 

The designs for these two new polymer notes are the same as those hybrid notes previously issued, except that as these are polymer notes, it also incorporated with a see-through windows in the design, just like those previous lower denominations issued

It is believed that only one prefix is printed for each domination, and to continue with traditions, these notes are printed with DD prefix for the 50 tala and EE for the 100 tala. Replacement notes are all printed with ZZ prefixes. 

As of today, there are now 21 nations fully adopting polymer banknotes. It should be noted that Samoa first tried the polymer substrate banknote when the country released the 2 tala note in 1991. In those days, Samoa was known as Western Samoa. The 2 tala polymer went on in circulation until 2009 when the central bank ceased issuing this banknote and replaced it with a coin in 2011. 

With these two notes and the Fiji 2026 polymer full set released recently, the following countries are now embracing polymer banknotes in full - Australia (1996), Fiji (2026), New Zealand (1999), Papua New Guinea (2010), Samoa (2025), and Vanuatu (2017). The remaining three countries that are yet to follow are the French Polynesia, Tonga and Solomon Islands.

Fifty Tala

Front - On the front it features the Government complex at Matagialalua. The main building is Fiame Mata'afa Faumuina Mulinuu II (FMFM II) Government Building, which houses several government ministries and agencies, including the Public Services Commission and the Bureau of Statistics. This building is located on the Apia waterfront on Beach Road, and behind this building is the Matagialalua Friendship park.

Signatures: -

Minister of Finance - Hon. Lautimuia Afoa Uelese Va'ai (since 01.10.2023)

Governor - Maiava Atalina Emma Ainuu-Enari (since 11.08.2011)

Sizes - 140mm x 72mm 

Back - On the back, it depicts the Central Bank of Samoa building located in the capital city of Apia. Whilst the central bank was established in 1984, the construction for the Central Bank of Samoa building was completed in 2009.

Fifty Tala ZZ Replacement Note

Sizes - 140mm x 71mm 

 

One Hundred Tala

Front - The portrait of the late Malietoa Tanumafili II (b.1913-2007). He was the Samoa paramount chief and the head of state when Samoa became independent in 1962 until his death. In Samoan, his official title is - O le Ao o le Malo of Samoa.

Signatures: -

Minister of Finance - Hon. Lautimuia Afoa Uelese Va'ai (since 01.10.2023)

Governor - Maiava Atalina Emma Ainuu-Enari (since 11.08.2011)

Sizes - 140mm x 72mm 

Back - The main feature printed on the note is the historical Mulivai Catholic Cathedral in Apia. Officially, this church is known as the Mulivai immaculate Conception of Mary Roman Catholic Cathedral and is located in Apai. 

One Hundred Tala ZZ Replacement Note 

Sizes - 140mm x 71.5mm 

Back to Home page