Designers chosen for new Guernsey banknotes

The first redesigns of Guernsey banknotes since the early '90s are expected to enter circulation in early 2027.

The States began a competition in October 2024 for artists to help redesign the Bailiwick's banknotes

More than 100 individuals registered, 26 entries were received, and three winners have now been chosen.

Floral designs from Guernsey-born Hayley Mallett and Rachael De La Mare will be featured on the front.

And Natasha K.H.E's architecture-inspired work will be printed on the back of the notes.

Natasha, who moved to the Bailiwick two years ago, says it is a privilege to help modernise the currency.

"My background is urban design and architecture so I am used to viewing things from a different perspective.

"The hardest part was choosing which building and which side, for a better image.

"Guernsey granite texturing was incorporated into the designs for consistency."

Rachael De La Mare says she is proud to be a part of the project.

"When you grow up in Guernsey, the unique banknotes and the stamps, all these things add to the fabric of your life.

"I sometimes live in England and I often have a pound note in my pocket to show people and be like this is real money, so I think it is a great way to promote the island to tourists."

Hayley Mallett says being chosen for the redesign is 'a dream come true'.

“I am a true Guernsey girl and have always been proud of my island’s beauty.

"When this opportunity arose, I saw it as a chance to challenge myself creatively while creating designs that would be enjoyed by both future generations and visitors to Guernsey.

"Without giving too much away, our designs are rooted in the idea of capturing the essence of Guernsey's natural beauty."

States Treasurer Bethan Haines says the mix of local and imported talent is appropriate.

"Guernsey is not a single thing, it is lots of different people from lots of different cultures who have moved it over time.

"To have the perspective of some Guernsey girls and someone who has moved here recently is very exciting."

The States Treasurer also confirmed that the island will bid farewell to paper money.

"There are very few paper mills, and because our order quantities are quite small relative to the UK or wherever - polymer it is.

"It is a lot more tactile now, it is not just slidy plastic, and it is much more long-lasting so the notes will be around for a lot longer.

"Because there is going to be such a change in the notes, I think we will seek to get the old notes back in as soon as possible so that we are not dealing with too many different notes in circulation at one time."

Islanders will have to wait until November to see the full designs, which will not feature King Charles III.

The Guernsey banknotes that are currently in circulation were designed in the 1990s.