July 1, 2026
The Central Bank of Belize has unveiled the designs for Belize’s new National Symbols Coin Series today through an official video release, marking a milestone in modernizing the country’s currency while celebrating Belizean identity.
Minted by the Royal Canadian Mint, the new coin series reflects Belize’s natural heritage. The $1.00 coin prominently features the map of Belize, while the remaining five denominations showcase the country’s national symbols. This launch complements the 2025 National Heroes banknote series, establishing a unified, distinctly Belizean national currency.
The new coins will enter circulation in September 2026. They will circulate alongside existing coins featuring the late Queen Elizabeth II, which will remain valid legal tender. The public does not need to deposit or exchange current coins. Old coins will naturally phase out over time.
Once issued, the new coins will be distributed through normal cash transactions at commercial banks, credit unions, and businesses across the country.
The National Symbols Coin series maintain the familiar sizes and general characteristics of the existing denominations to ensure ease of use but introduces these key updates:
- A shift in metal composition to align with modern minting standards and improve cost efficiency while maintaining durability.
- The use of nickel-plated and bronze-plated steel, resulting in slight weight variations.
- The one-cent coin features a unique ten-sided edge, and the one-dollar coin features a distinctive bronze appearance.
The Central Bank emphasizes that the introduction of the new coin series does not alter the value of Belize’s currency. The Belize dollar remains stable at a fixed exchange rate of BZ $2.00 to US $1.00.
To commemorate the launch of the series, the Central Bank will issue a limited‑edition painted fifty‑cent collector’s coin featuring the Mahogany Tree. This commemorative piece will be sold exclusively as a numismatic item and will not enter general circulation.
The public is encouraged to visit www.centralbank.org.bz to watch the design reveal video, explore the full coins gallery, and access educational resources.
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