PNG WINS INTERNATIONAL AWARD FOR COMMEMORATIVE 50 KINA BANKNOTE

Papua New Guinea has won international recognition for its Commemorative 50 Kina Banknote, taking out the Best New Limited Circulation Commemorative Banknote Award at the 2026 International Association of Currency Affairs Excellence in Currency Awards in Washington DC.

The award recognises Papua New Guinea’s Commemorative 50 Kina banknote, issued to mark the nation’s 50th anniversary of independence and 50 years of the kina and toea.

The commemorative design retains important national symbols Grand Chief Michael Somare, Parliament House, and the official 50th anniversary logo. It also features national wildlife including the Bird of Paradise, Sepik Blue Orchid, and Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing butterfly.

Accepting the award on behalf of Papua New Guinea, Governor Elizabeth Genia said the recognition was a proud moment for the country.

She says the banknote was created to commemorate a defining milestone in the nation’s story 50 years of independence and 50 years of the national currency.

Governor Genia says when Papua New Guinea prepared for self-government in 1973, the decision to create its own currency was an expression of economic sovereignty, cultural identity and self-determination.

Governor Genia adds that the note combines national symbolism with world-class technical design and security.