Solomon Islands Introduces New Coins

SI New Coins

Across the Islands of the nation of Solomon Islands, a set of new coins are circulating with in the businesses, organizations, wholesalers, retailers, families and individuals. The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) introduces the new coins at the beginning of the new year 2013. The changes includes the replacement of $2 note with $2 coin, reducing the size of $1, 50 cent, 20 cent and 10 cent coins.  

However,  after CBSI releases the new coins to the banks, heavy criticisms were raised against these new coins as it circulates. The general public especially, realized that the size of the new coins are too small hence, people experience difficulties with handling of the new coins. Some complained that the coins are too small that it becomes uncomfortable to use when buying. Others further stated that when it falls, there was not even a sound to be heard, signifies the tendency to get lost so easily. These are complains raised against the new coins as it continue circulation across the islands.

The members of the out spoken social media group - Forum Solomon Islands International on Facebook expressed similar sentiments. Nearly, 90 percent of the members pointed that the coin size was really too small to handle.Others said, from experiences it was not suitable buying with these coins as it was too small. But some members of the group express satisfaction saying it will take time before the general public gain adaptation. Let's be patient as time will come when people feel comfortable with handling of these coins. 

The coins will continue circulating among the general public although criticisms were raised against the CBSI. The coin size was not the decision of the CBSI but people's choice. CBSI chooses the size based on their survey carried out in 2008/2009.