A 16 hour journey south of London, on a plane are the Falkland Islands. Close to the Antarctic are 2 large islands and over 700 small islands that are a British Overseas Territory. These islands were explored by Spanish, Dutch, French and British sailors in the 16th and 17th century, but the British asserted its rule in 1833. Argentina also has claimed the Falklands are part of Argentina and tried to re-establish this in 1982 when it invaded the islands. Two months later England kicked them out, but animosity remains to this day between the countries. 

Map of the Falkland Islands
Source: AS

Early Falkland Islands Banknotes

As an overseas territory, The Falkland Islands has Queen Elizabeth II on its currency. The islands are also sparsely populated, with less than 5,000 people so it only rarely has banknotes printed or issued. Banknote dates of issue are 1921, 1938, 1960, 1969, 1983 / 84 and 2005. The designs, even today, are a throw back to an older style. The 1921 series initiated the design in use through 1982. The difference was only the small portrait of the reigning monarch on the front.

King George V was replaced in 1938 by King George VI and in 1960, George VI was replaced with his daughter Queen Elizabeth II. The design concept is shared by several British colonies at the time. There is lots of scroll work on front and back. The portrait presentation contains dramatic and elegant framing. The reverse is unusual in that its printed areas are like a diamond with the 4 corners ink free. It is a great old style.

Falkland Islands 5 Pounds | 1932 | P-3bs |
Source: Banknote World Educational

Designs Over The Years

In 1983, the design underwent an upgrade but was still quite traditional in design. Also, the banknotes now had a large, smiling portrait of a middle-aged Queen Elizabeth II. There are Antarctic animals in use, including penguins and seals. The reverse show images of old style thatched homes and a small church. All of the denominations had the same images except for the denomination and different colors. 

Falkland Islands 50 Pounds | 1990 | P-16a |
Source: Banknote World

The 2005 series appears identical to the 1983 issuance.

Falkland Islands 5 Pounds | 2005 | P-17a |
Source: Banknote World

The Falkland Islands appear to be a picturesque country. Although it is far south, its weather is quite temperate with an average temperature of 2 degrees C in its winter (July) and 9 degrees C in its summer (January). It seems beautiful and quiet. And for now- beautiful and traditional banknotes. 

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