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Queen Elizabeth II has not only graced British money for the majority of her reign but has also been featured on the currency of numerous Commonwealth nations and Crown dependencies. Her lengthy reign and the widespread use of her image on banknotes across different countries allow us to piece together a fascinating timeline of her aging process. The ages listed for each portrait reflect her age when the image was created, which may differ from the year the banknote was released (additional details are available on this informative site curated by renowned banknote expert Peter Symes). Explore Elizabeth’s evolving appearance on currency over the decades.
1. Canada, 20 Dollars, Age 8
Navonanumis
At that time, she was still a princess. Her image was featured on Canadian currency well before it appeared on any notes issued by the Bank of England.
2. Canada, 1 Dollar, Age 25
Lithograving
This portrait was based on a photograph taken by a Canadian photographer just one year before she became queen.
3. Jamaica, 1 Pound, Age 26
Numismondo
Freshly crowned as queen.
4. Mauritius, 5 Rupees, Age 29
CollectionPpyowb
This portrait originates from a painting commissioned in the 1950s by the Worshipful Company of Fishmongers, intended for display at Fishmongers’ Hall in London.
5. Cayman Islands, 100 Dollars, Age 34
Downies
In this portrait, she is adorned with the Russian-style Kokoshnik tiara.
6. Australia, 1 Dollar, Age 38
Leftover Currency
Shortly after this portrait was captured, she would have her famous encounter with the Beatles.
7. St. Helena, 5 Pounds, Age 40
MeBankNotes
Mastering the skill of appearing relaxed while adorned in regal jewelry.
8. Isle of Man, 50 Pounds, Age 51
Leftover Currency
This portrait from her Silver Jubilee features even more regal jewelry.
9. Jersey, 1 Pound, Age 52
Leftover Currency
Wisdom, experience, and deeply expressive eyes.
10. Australia, 5 Dollars, Age 58
Currency Guide
Exuding the confidence to embrace a more relaxed style.
11. New Zealand, 20 Dollars, Age 60
1kpmr.com
This one isn’t the most flattering, and the green tint doesn’t do it any favors.
12. Gibraltar, 50 Pounds, Age 66
Leftover Currency
Elegant silver hair paired with sparkling diamonds, captured in a photograph at Buckingham Palace.
13. Fiji, 5 Dollars, Age 73
BanknoteWorld
More silver hair, more dazzling diamonds, and a more authentic portrayal of her natural wrinkles.
14. Jersey, 100 Pounds, Age 78
Downies
Her face is lined with age, but her eyes remain bright and lively. She gazes directly at you, exuding grace and charm.
15. Canada, 20 Dollars, Age 85
GDC.net
Returning to Canada, the place where her journey on currency began, and where they prefer their Queen portrayed with a relaxed demeanor.
