Brief Fiji History
Fiji became independent in 1970, after nearly a century as a British colony. Democratic rule was interrupted by two military coups in 1987, caused by concern over a government perceived as dominated by the Indian community (descendants of contract laborers brought to the islands by the British in the 19th century). A 1990 constitution favoured native Melanesian control of Fiji, but led to heavy Indian emigration; the population loss resulted in economic difficulties, but ensured that Melanesians became the majority. Amendments enacted in 1997 made the constitution more equitable. Free and peaceful elections in 1999 resulted in a government led by an Indo-Fijian, but a coup in May 2000 ushered in a prolonged period of political turmoil. Parliamentary elections held in August 2001 provided Fiji with a democratically elected government and gave a mandate to the government of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase.

Fijian Coins
The first coins issued for Fiji were in 1934 when Fiji was under British administration, and naturally used the old British pre-decimal system. A new decimal currency was introduced starting in 1969, two years before Britain converted to decimal. Since 1995, a small number of commemorative gold coins have been issued.

Designs
In 1980, gold $200 coins were issued to commemorate the tenth anniversary of independence in 1970. These featured a portrait of Prince Charles who we believe attended celebrations. Both proof and uncirculated versions were issued.

Pacific Gold Sovereign
A new one ounce gold bullion coin due to be launched on March 1st 2009.
We are UK distributors, and expect our first delivery around the launch date.

Technical Specifications

Denomination	Diameter	Weight	Fineness	Gold Content
200 Dollars, 1980 - 1986	28.40	15.9800	.9166	0.4712
200 Dollars, 1991	27.5	10.0000	.9166	0.2948
100 Dollars, 2009		31.1035	.999	1
10 Dollars	14	3.11	.9999	0.1000
5 Dollars, 2002	13.92	1.5550	.9999	0.05
5 Dollars, 2003	13.92	1.2100	.9999?	0.0389

Notes on Table
Diameter = Diameter in millimetres.
Weight = Gross weight in grams.
Fineness = purity of gold alloy.
Gold Content = Actual gold content in troy ounces.

Prices & Availability
All prices subject to fluctuation. The prices quoted in the US $ column may be out of date due to currency fluctuations.

Date	Denomination	Description	Issue Limit	Mintage	Grade	Availability	Price £	Price $
1980	200 Dollars	Tenth Anniversary of Independence - Prince Charles	2,500	500	Uncirculated	Yes	£225	$440
1980	200 Dollars	Tenth Anniversary of Independence - Prince Charles	2,500	1,116	Proof	Yes	£250	$499
1991	200 Dollars	Save the Children Fund	32,000	32,000	Proof, about FDC	Yes	£150	$270
2009	100 Dollars	Pacific Sovereign			Uncirculated	Ask	£Ask	$Ask
2002	5 Dollars	Fine Gold Collection			Proof	Yes	£Ask	$Ask
2003	10 Dollars	Lost Treasure of King Richard II, World's Finest Miniatures Collection			Proof	Yes	£Ask	$Ask

Postage & Packing
UK Registered Post (Special Delivery) £9 per order
EU Insured Post £10 per order
USA Airmail $10 per order
USA Insured Shipping $20 per order

Fiji Silver and Base Metal Coins
For silver and base metal coins of Fiji, please look at our original Chard Coins website.

Coins Wanted
We make an active market in almost all world coins, gold or otherwise, including Fijian gold coins. If you have any of these coins to sell, please contact us, or post them to us for appraisal and offer.