Solomon Islands introduce first gold coin note

The Central Bank of the Solomon Islands (CBSI) has introduced the world’s first ever legal tender gold coin note. This extremely thin coin note is produced in 0.5g fine .999 gold and is measured at 90 x 43 mm. The making of this gold coin note renders the product as very delicate in appearance. This project involves CBSI and the World Coin Association and MDM Group, a company based in Germany who have been in the numismatic business for more than 100 years.

Each coin note is professionally packed and set in a protective clear square capsule. At the moment the maximum mintage is limited to 20,000 pieces only. In terms of the design, on the back of the note, the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II is depicted in profile and is framed by graphic elements. The front of the note features symbols of the most important world currencies, rotating around planet Earth. In the background, symbols of the financial world are displayed. The note can be purchased for an estimated $20 from the CBSI.

Now the important question which has been a topic on the IBNS forum: could this be considered a real banknote or should this 'note' be seen as a purely numismatic product? I'm leaning towards the latter (certainly after reading the press release carefully) but that doesn't mean one should avoid this gold piece. I personally will pass on it but if you like it: go for it.