Silver coins

Prior to the 1800s, most Caribbean islands used a mix of currencies brought by various settlers, merchants, and visitors. To standardize payment, the British government began minting coins specifically for use in its colonies in the West Indies: Jamaica, British Guiana, and Trinidad.

The two smaller coins date to 1834 and 1839, making them some of the earliest coins

minted specifically for use in the colonies. By the time the larger 1896 coin was circulated,

British coinage would have been the standard currency on the island.