Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands is a sovereign nation comprising six major islands and over 900 smaller islands. The island state is spread in Oceania along with Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu. It has a population of about 652,858. Over 78% of the country is covered by woodlands, making it the 103rd most forested country in the world.

The Solomon Islands was a British settlement from 1893 until 1978, hence, the first few issues of the Solomon Islands dollar banknotes bear the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the front design. In its 1986 issues, Queen Elizabeth II’s picture was replaced with the coat of arms showing a shield supported by a crocodile and shark. Their reverse portrays an economic activity and items relative to the nation. In 2001, the Central Bank of Solomon Islands issued a 50-dollar banknote with the national flag added to its obverse design. Later on, security features such as security threads were changed from solid to windowed and enhanced its falcon’s head watermark by adding CBSI electrotype. In its 20013 issues, the banknotes feature the national emblem, Solomon Islands’ culture, lifestyle, and relevant objects.

A huge part of the Solomon Islands’ population relies on agriculture, forestry, and fishing as its primary source of livelihood. The islands have plenty of reserves of undeveloped minerals such as zinc, lead, gold, and nickel. Despite its idyllic landscapes and pristine beaches, the nation is considered one of the least visited countries in the world. Tourism could have been a significant industry if not because of the country’s inadequate transportation system and facilities.

Before the Regional Assistance Missions to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) took effect, the country was challenged by serious ethnic conflicts that led to the shutting down of important industries and zero government finances. With RAMSI in place and its efforts to regain economic stability and the nation’s order, Solomon Islands’ economy improved.