Government of Gibraltar
The Government of Gibraltar operates as the issuing authority within a sterling-linked system, notably defined by fixed 1:1 parity with the British pound and localized banknote issuance.
Quick Facts
Institutional Identity
The Government of Gibraltar, acting through its Treasury, is the official issuer of the Gibraltar pound (GIP), circulating at a fixed 1:1 peg with the British pound (GBP). Banknotes are formally authorised and signed by the Commissioner of Currency, a defining institutional feature that distinguishes Gibraltar from central bank-issued systems and creates identifiable signature varieties across series.
Historical Evolution
Gibraltar’s paper money history began with the rare 1914 emergency issues during the First World War, establishing the foundation of local currency circulation under British administration. Over time, the issuing authority evolved while maintaining continuity with sterling, with modern series also reflecting a subtle institutional shift in inscription from “Government of Gibraltar” to “HM Government of Gibraltar”, a detail closely followed by collectors.
Design Philosophy
Design governance follows a structured British framework, with production by De La Rue. Banknotes prominently feature the Rock of Gibraltar alongside key local symbols, including the territory’s unique fauna—most notably the Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe and a defining visual motif on several issues. High denominations such as the 100 pounds note depict Sir Joshua Hassan, Gibraltar’s most significant political figure, reinforcing local identity within a British constitutional context. Standard security features include intaglio printing, watermarks and security threads.
For collectors
For collectors, the Government of Gibraltar represents a highly distinctive issuing authority defined by 1914 emergency origins, Commissioner of Currency signatures, iconic motifs such as the Barbary macaques and the presence of Sir Joshua Hassan, combined with low circulation volumes that make Gibraltar banknotes a sought-after segment within British Overseas Territories numismatics.