Salt Spring dollar facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Salt Spring dollar |
|
|---|---|
| User(s) | Salt Spring Island, British Columbia |
| Pegged with | Canadian dollar |
| Symbol | $$ |
| Banknotes | |
| Freq. used | $$1, $$2, $$5, $$10, $$20, $$50 |
| Rarely used | $$100 |
| Printer | Adler Tech International |
The Salt Spring Dollar is a special local money used on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia, Canada. It was created by the Salt Spring Island Monetary Foundation. This unique currency helps share local history and art. It also helps build good feelings within the community.
Contents
The Story of the Salt Spring Dollar
How the Idea Started
In the fall of 2000, a group called the Sustainable Salt Spring Island Coalition had meetings. They talked about creating a local currency. This was to help the island's economy and community.
Making it Official
In July 2001, the Salt Spring Island Monetary Foundation was officially started. It was registered in British Columbia. The first Salt Spring Dollars were printed and used in September 2001.
Adding Coins to the Mix
By 2006, the Foundation began planning to make silver coins. The first Salt Spring Dollar coins were made. They were released in December 2007.
Understanding the Currency
What the Bills Look Like
Salt Spring Dollar bills come in several amounts. These are $$1, $$2, $$5, $$10, $$20, $$50, and $$100. Each bill shows a different important person from Salt Spring Island's past. For example, the $$1 bill features Henry Wright Bullock. The $$2 bill shows Matilda Naukana Harris. Sylvia Stark is on the $$5 bill.
Special Details on the Bills
Every bill also has a quote from Albert Einstein. It says: "How I wish that somewhere there existed an Island for those who are wise and of good will! In such a place even I would be an ardent patriot." The middle of the bills shows beautiful island landscapes. The back of the bills features paintings by local artists. One famous artist is Robert Bateman.
How the Salt Spring Dollar Works
The Salt Spring Dollar has its own symbol: $$. This symbol means "Salt Spring Island Issued." It is worth the same as the Canadian dollar. This means if you have $$1 Salt Spring Dollar, it's worth $1 Canadian dollar.
Where You Can Use It
Not all businesses on the island accept the Salt Spring Dollar. Only a few places use it. The Salt Spring Island Monetary Foundation makes sure the currency is safe. They do this by holding Canadian dollars to match the Salt Spring Dollars in use.
