Vanuatu Coins

Explore a vibrant and highly collectable range of Vanuatu coins, featuring modern circulation issues and specialist commemorative releases from one of the most distinctive island nations in the South Pacific. The official currency, the Vanuatu vatu (VUV), reflects the country’s independence, cultural heritage, and unique position as a former Franco-British condominium.

From everyday circulation coinage to striking modern collector issues, Vanuatu coins are widely collected for their bold designs, limited mintages, and strong connection to Pacific island culture.

A Currency Born from Independence

The vatu was introduced in 1981 following Vanuatu’s independence, replacing the New Hebrides franc and ending the use of foreign colonial currencies.

Today, circulating coins are issued in denominations of:

• 1 vatu
• 2 vatu
• 5 vatu
• 10 vatu
• 20 vatu
• 50 vatu
• 100 vatu

These coins form part of a simple, stable monetary system that reflects Vanuatu’s transition to full economic independence.

Distinctive Pacific Designs and Cultural Symbols

Vanuatu coins are instantly recognisable for their strong cultural identity and symbolic imagery, often featuring:

• The national coat of arms
• Traditional pig’s tusks (a symbol of wealth and status in local culture)
• Indigenous tools and ceremonial objects
• Marine life and Pacific island themes

These designs reflect the country’s Melanesian heritage and deep cultural traditions, giving each coin a strong sense of national identity.

In modern issues, designs are often enhanced with clearer detailing and updated minting techniques, while still retaining traditional symbolic motifs.

Commemorative & Collector Issues

Alongside circulation coinage, Vanuatu has issued a wide range of commemorative and themed collector coins, often produced in partnership with international mints.

These releases frequently celebrate:

• Marine conservation and ocean life
• Dinosaurs and prehistoric themes
• Global historical figures and events
• Nature, wildlife, and environmental awareness
• National anniversaries and independence milestones

Many of these coins are struck in silver, gold, and coloured finishes, often in strictly limited mintages, making them especially popular with modern collectors.

Why Collect Vanuatu Coins?

Vanuatu coins are highly sought after by collectors of:

• Pacific island nation coinage
• Modern world commemoratives
• Low mintage collector issues
• Wildlife and themed numismatic series
• Emerging and small-state currencies

Their appeal lies in their creativity, affordability, and the wide variety of modern themed releases.

Graded & Collectable Coins

At The London Coin Company, we offer a carefully selected range of Vanuatu coins in collectable condition, including both circulation and commemorative issues.

Whether you are looking for:

• 1 to 100 vatu circulation coins
• Wildlife and cultural design coins
• Silver and coloured commemorative issues
• Limited edition collector releases

…you’ll find a curated selection ideal for both new and experienced collectors.

A Colourful Highlight in Pacific Numismatics

Vanuatu coins stand out for their bold cultural symbolism, modern thematic designs, and strong collector appeal. As part of a dynamic Pacific island nation with a unique history of independence, they offer a distinctive and rewarding addition to any world coin collection.

Browse our available Vanuatu coins below and add a striking piece of South Pacific numismatic history to your collection today.