There are three different series currently in circulation; the 2008 Series, the 2015 Series, and the 2023 Series. Learn more about their differences and their design features.
2023 Series
Size: 150mm x 70mm
The 2023 Series included the introduction of Tonga's first polymer banknotes on the $5 and $10. Polymer is a more durable substrate and will ensure these banknotes last longer than the previous paper versions.
What is featured on this 5 pa'anga banknote
The front of the 5 Pa'anga banknote from the 2023 Series has a portrait of His Majesty King Tupou VI. His Majesty is the current monarch.
The banknote also incorporates the Tokelau Feletoa kupesi, the Coat of Arms, and the Royal Medal on the obverse side. Each element showcases our Tongan identity.
Illustrated on the back of this banknote is the Ha'amonga 'a Maui Trilithon representing one of the popular tourist sites around the islands of Tonga. It is believed that the monument was built in the 13th century by King Tuʻitātui, the eleventh Tu'i Tonga, as an entrance to his royal compound, Heketā. It wasn't until 1967, that His late Majesty King Taufa'āhau Tupou VI believed that the Ha'amonga had an astronomical significance, telling the position of sunrise at solstices and equinoxes. This theory is supported by the V-shaped mark on top of the lintel that aligns with the sun's rising during the solstices and equinoxes.
2015 Series
Size: 150mm x 70mm
What is featured on this 5 pa'anga banknote
The front of the 5 Pa'anga banknote from the 2015 Series has a portrait of His Majesty King Tupou VI. His Majesty is the current monarch.
The banknote also incorporates on the obverse side the Tokelau Feletoa kupesi, and the Coat of Arms. Each element showcases our Tongan identity.
The Ancient 'Otu Langi are depicted on the back of the 5 Pa'anga. These are ancient royal burial tombs, normally in three or more tiered layers, are artificial hills surrounded by enormous slabs of coral rocks.
The Royal Medal is also situated on the back of the banknote.
2008 Series
Size: 150mm x 70mm
What is featured on this 2 pa'anga banknote
The front of the 2 Pa'anga banknote has a portrait of His Late Majesty King Tupou V.
The banknote also incorporates on the obverse side the Tokelau Feletoa kupesi, and the Coat of Arms. Each element showcases our Tongan identity.
Same as the 5 Pa'anga banknote from the 2015 Series, the Ancient 'Otu Langi are also depicted on the back of the 5 Pa'anga in the 2008 Series. These burial tombs are believed to have been constructed in the 13th and 16th centuries, and are considered one of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in Tonga.
The Royal Medal is also situated on the back of the banknote.
