On September 18, 2026, Belize will make history when the Central Bank of Belize introduces its first entirely new coin series in more than four decades – a landmark shift that removes any reference to the British monarchy and centers the nation’s unique natural and cultural heritage. This is the first full overhaul of Belize’s coinage since the central bank was founded in 1982, and the new collection carries the fitting theme “Belize in Every Coin”.
Emmanuel Pech, an assistant manager at the Central Bank of Belize, explained that the launch marks a milestone for the institution and for Belize as a sovereign nation. Once the new coins enter circulation tomorrow, everyday transactions will give Belizeans a tangible piece of their national identity, connecting them directly to the country’s history and cultural heritage with every exchange.
The new series features six denominations, each emblazoned with a distinct Belizean national symbol: the one-cent coin showcases the country’s iconic black orchid, the five-cent coin bears the image of a native tapir, 10 cents highlights Belize’s national coat of arms, the 25-cent coin features the colorful native toucan, 50 cents spotlights the mahogany tree that has long been central to Belize’s economy, and the one-dollar coin displays a full map of the country. Beyond the visual update, the central bank has also switched to more cost-effective materials for the new coins: nickel-plated and bronze-plated steel, which match the durability of the older coinage while cutting production costs significantly.
Delroy Rhaburn, another assistant manager at the central bank, noted that the redesign was intended to complement the updated banknotes released last year, creating a cohesive national currency that feels distinctly Belizean. For holders of the old coinage, there is no cause for concern: Rhaburn confirmed that the older coins featuring Queen Elizabeth II will remain legal tender indefinitely, and there is no requirement to exchange them for the new series.
Alongside the general circulation coins, the central bank is also releasing a limited-edition painted 50-cent collector’s coin that features the mahogany tree design. Only 100,000 of these collector’s items have been produced, and they will be available for purchase exclusively through the Central Bank of Belize. The new circulating coins will be distributed to the public through commercial banks, credit unions, and local businesses starting tomorrow.