Cayman Islands | Your local guide to the Cayman Islands

Everything you need to know about Cayman Currency

When it comes to the Cayman Islands, most people immediately think of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a luxurious lifestyle. However, beyond its natural beauty and upscale resorts, the Cayman Islands have a unique currency system that plays a pivotal role in the region’s financial landscape. In this article, we will delve into the world of Cayman currency, exploring its history, denominations, security features, and more.

Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD)

The official currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands Dollar, abbreviated as KYD. This currency is exclusively used within the territory and holds a fixed exchange rate with the United States Dollar (USD). The fixed exchange rate ensures stability in the currency and facilitates economic transactions within the islands.

History of Cayman Currency

Before adopting the Cayman Islands Dollar, the islands used the Jamaican Dollar (JMD) as their official currency. However, in 1972, the Cayman Islands introduced their own currency to further their economic independence. The first series of Cayman Islands Dollars was issued in 1972, featuring denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 25 dollars.

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KYD Denominations

The Cayman Islands Dollar is available in various denominations, including:

  • Coins: Coins are issued in 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, and 25 cents.
  • Banknotes: Banknotes are commonly available in 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100-dollar denominations. Each note features unique designs and security features.

KYD Security Features

Cayman currency notes are equipped with state-of-the-art security features to deter counterfeiting. These features include watermarks, holographic strips, and intricate designs that are difficult to reproduce. The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) takes counterfeiting seriously, and stringent measures are in place to maintain the integrity of the currency. Just in case you are a currency-nerd, here is exactly how much KYD currency is in circulation.

KYD Exchange Rate

As mentioned earlier, the Cayman Islands Dollar is pegged to the United States Dollar at a fixed rate of 1 KYD = 1.2 USD. This exchange rate provides stability for businesses and residents alike when conducting international transactions.

Other currency exchanges are: (As of Sept, 2023)

Cayman Islands Dollar to Euros (KYD to EUR): Approximately 1 KYD = 1.12 EUR
Cayman Islands Dollar to British Pounds (KYD to GBP): Approximately 1 KYD = 0.97 GBP
Cayman Islands Dollar to Japanese Yen (KYD to JPY): Approximately 1 KYD = 177.32 JPY

Cayman Dollar Currency Symbols

The symbol for the Cayman Islands Dollar is “$” and is often written as “CI$” to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies. For example, 10 Cayman Islands Dollars would be written as “CI$10.”

Currency Usage in Cayman

While the Cayman Islands Dollar is the official currency, the U.S. Dollar is widely accepted throughout the islands, and most prices are displayed in both Cayman and U.S. Dollars to accommodate tourists. You can also pay any establishment either cash or credit cards in US dollars — no one will bat an eye — making it so tourist friendly.   You won’t to worry about currencies and having to look for an ATM in the middle of your vacation.

Top 5 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Cayman currency

The official currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD).

No, the Cayman Islands Dollar is a separate currency from the U.S. Dollar. However, the Cayman Islands Dollar is pegged to the U.S. Dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 1 KYD = 1.2 USD, which means they have a consistent relationship in value.

Yes, U.S. Dollars are widely accepted in the Cayman Islands, and many businesses and establishments, especially in the tourism industry, will accept U.S. Dollars alongside Cayman Islands Dollars. However, you may receive change in Cayman Islands Dollars.

Cayman currency is available in both coins and banknotes. Coins are issued in 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, and 25 cents denominations. Banknotes come in 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100-dollar denominations.

Yes, Cayman Islands banknotes are equipped with advanced security features to deter counterfeiting. These features include watermarks, holographic strips, and intricate designs that are difficult to reproduce. The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) takes counterfeiting seriously and employs measures to protect the integrity of the currency.

The Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD) is the official currency of the Cayman Islands. With a rich history, various denominations, stringent security features, and a fixed exchange rate to the U.S. Dollar, Cayman currency is an essential part of the islands’ financial system. 

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