Belizeans React to New Currency Designs

Belizeans are buzzing over the new currency designs unveiled by the Central Bank of Belize yesterday. The new notes will feature national heroes George Cadle Price and Phillip Goldson and are set to be released in June or July. While the designs are updated, the value and exchange rate will remain unchanged, according to the Central Bank. The new notes will not feature Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait, a common feature in the currency notes of other Commonwealth countries.

The updated designs also come with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting. Prime Minister John Briceño weighed in earlier this week, describing the new currency as “a beautiful note.” He said that the modern design, featuring Belizean icons, would be well-received by the public. “It is something that Belizeans will accept, and it is our people on our note,” Briceño added.

Since the grand reveal, Belizeans have been expressing their opinions about the new designs. A recent poll on News 5’s Facebook page, which has gathered 3,841 votes up to 10:45 this morning, revealed mixed reactions. Of respondents, 53%, or 2,039 users, said they did not like the new design, while only 10%, or 377 users, voted that they liked it.

Meanwhile, 1,085 users felt the notes resembled Mexican pesos, and 199 users appreciated the added security features. Another 4%, or 141 users, indicated they weren’t bothered by the change, with one commenter saying, “As long as I can buy and pay my bills, I’m good.”

The poll is still active until later this evening; if you’d like to participate, click here to cast your vote.