The $3 Bahamian banknote issued in 1974 is a unique denomination exclusive to the Bahamas, introduced as part of the country’s first post-independence currency series. This vibrant and unusual note features Queen Elizabeth II on the front, symbolizing the country’s historical ties to the British monarchy. The reverse showcases a Bahamian family scene representing unity, tradition, and national identity. The $3 note is highly collectible due to its uncommon denomination and symbolic design reflecting Bahamian culture during the early years of independence.
Obverse
Red print; multicolour underprint; black serial numbers.
Front-facing bust of Queen Elizabeth II, wearing the Vladimir Tiara and the Queen Victoria Jubilee Necklace at centre right. Outline map of the Bahamas Islands at centre. People sunbathing on beach at left. Watermark area and at right.
Bank logo see-through feature at left.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
THE CENTRAL BANK OF BAHAMAS
THESE NOTES ARE LEGAL TENDER UNDER THE
CENTRAL BANK OF BAHAMAS ACT 1974
FOR THE PAYMENT OF ANY AMOUNT
THREE DOLLARS
Governor
$3
Reverse
Red print; multicolour underprint.
Sailing sloops at centre. Coat of arms of the Bahamas and bank logo at right. Sloop at lower left. Watermark area at left.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
THE CENTRAL BANK OF BAHAMAS
THREE DOLLARS
REGATTA
THOMAS DE LA RUE AND COMPANY LIMITED
$3
FORWARD UPWARD ONWARD TOGETHER
Watermark
Sailing ship
© Griffin S (CC BY-NC)
Signature
William Clifford Allen (WCA), Governor of Central Bank of The Bahamas
Printer
De La Rue (Thomas de la Rue; Thomas De La Rue & Co.; TDLR), London, United Kingdom (1821-date)
Comments
Features
| Issuer | The Bahamas |
|---|---|
| Issuing bank | Central Bank of The Bahamas |
| Queen | Elizabeth II (1952-2022) |
| Type | Standard circulation banknotes |
| Year | 1984 |
| Value | 3 Dollars 3 BSD = GBP 2.20 |
| Currency | Dollar (1966-date) |
| Composition | Paper |
| Size | 156 × 67 mm |
| Shape | Rectangular |
