The Saint Helena pound (SHP) is a unique currency used on the remote islands of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is pegged at par with the British pound sterling, meaning it holds the same value as GBP. This interesting arrangement is a nod to the islands’ status as British Overseas Territories. What makes the SHP particularly captivating is that it features diverse flora and fauna native to these islands on its currency notes and coins, reflecting the abundant biodiversity found in the region, including the endemic Saint Helena plover, or “wirebird.”

Historically, Saint Helena has been a pivotal stopover for ships en route between Europe and Asia, giving the island a rich cultural and historical tapestry. The currency, introduced in 1976, underscores this heritage, providing a tangible link to its colonial past while celebrating its local identity. Tourists are often fascinated by the fact that while the SHP is widely accepted on the islands, it can rarely be exchanged outside them, making it a truly local currency for travelers to enjoy.