Coins of the Fijian dollar facts for kids
The coins of the Fijian dollar are the metal money used in Fiji. They are part of Fiji's currency, called the Fijian dollar. These coins have changed over time, showing Fiji's history and important events.
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Fiji's First Dollar Coins (1969)
In 1969, Fiji was a colony, meaning it was ruled by another country. At this time, Fiji introduced a new currency called the Fijian dollar. Two Fijian dollars were equal to one old Fijian pound.
The first coins made were for 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 cents. A few years later, in 1975, a 50 cent coin was also made. This new coin replaced a 50 cent paper banknote.
Coins of the Dominion of Fiji (1970-1987)
After 1970, Fiji became a Dominion. This meant it was still connected to the British Crown but had more control over its own government. The coins during this period continued to be used.
Coins of the Republic of Fiji (1990-1996)
In 1990, Fiji became a Republic. This meant it was fully independent and no longer a dominion. For a short time, Fiji was not a member of the Commonwealth.
During this period, a new $1 coin was made in 1995. It was made of a metal called aluminium bronze. Other coins, like the 1 cent and 2 cent, were made of copper-plated steel. The 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent coins were made of nickel-plated steel.
Fiji's Coins as a Commonwealth Member (1997-2010)
From 1997, Fiji rejoined the Commonwealth of Nations as a full member. The coins from this time still showed the head of the Queen, which had been on coins since 1985.
By 2006, the coins in use were 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, plus a 1 dollar coin. In 2009, the 1 cent and 2 cent coins were taken out of use. New, smaller coins for 5 to 50 cents were also introduced.
Coins with Native Animals (2012-2014)
In 2009, Fiji was temporarily suspended from the Commonwealth. Because of this, new coins were designed without the Queen's head. These new coins, made in 2012, featured native Fijian animals. They became available in 2013.
One special 50 cent coin was made in 2013. It showed Iliesa Delana, a famous Fijian athlete. About 500,000 of these special coins were made.
Fiji's Coins as a Full Commonwealth Member (Since 2014)
Fiji rejoined the Commonwealth as a full member in 2014. More recently, Fiji released a special 50 cent coin. This coin celebrates the Fijian 7's rugby team's big win at the 2016 Olympic Games. The coin shows Ben Ryan, who was the coach of the winning team.
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