
If you're planning a trip to Jamaica or just want to understand the local currency, you're in the right place. The Jamaican hundred dollar bill is a widely accepted note in the country.
The Jamaican hundred dollar bill is a series 2009 note, featuring a portrait of Sir Alexander Bustamante, a national hero and founding father of modern Jamaica.
You can exchange your money for Jamaican dollars at a currency exchange office or a bank, but be aware that the exchange rate may vary depending on the location and the current market rate.
Jamaican Currency Overview
The Jamaican currency is a fascinating topic, and I'm excited to share some key facts with you.
The Jamaican currency is called the Jamaican dollar, abbreviated as JMD.
It's a widely accepted fact that the Jamaican dollar is the official currency of Jamaica.
The Jamaican dollar is subdivided into 100 cents, just like the US dollar.
You can exchange your money for Jamaican dollars at local banks, currency exchange offices, or even some hotels.
Jamaican dollars come in various denominations, including the popular $100 bill.
The Jamaican Central Bank is responsible for issuing new banknotes, including the $100 bill.
The $100 bill features a portrait of Sir Alexander Bustamante, a Jamaican national hero, on the front.
Exchange and Circulation
The Jamaican hundred dollar bill is a widely accepted currency in Jamaica, but it's not as widely circulated as you might think. Only about 10% of the population uses cash for transactions, with the majority opting for digital payment methods.
You can exchange your Jamaican dollars for other currencies at banks, currency exchange offices, or online through specialized services. Some hotels and resorts may also offer currency exchange services for their guests.
The Jamaican dollar is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate, which means that the value of the Jamaican dollar is tied to the value of the US dollar. This can affect the exchange rate and the value of your money when converting it to other currencies.
Recommended read: Currencies Pegged to Usd
Obverse

The obverse side of a banknote can tell us a lot about its origin and purpose. The obverse of the Bank of Jamaica's $100 note features a portrait of Sir Donald Sangster.
Sir Donald Sangster's portrait is accompanied by two vertical bars at the left, the Coat of Arms at lower centre, and a white circle at the right. The lettering on the note includes the bank's name, the denomination, and a phrase that reflects the country's motto.
The phrase "OUT OF MANY, ONE PEOPLE" is a nod to Jamaica's cultural diversity. The note also mentions that it was issued under the Bank of Jamaica Act.
Here's an interesting read: Ethiopian Commercial Bank Foreign Exchange Rate
Exchange Rate History
The exchange rate between the Jamaican dollar (JMD) and the US dollar (USD) has been on a rollercoaster ride in recent days.
On Tuesday, January 14th, 2025, the exchange rate was $100 = $0.638, with a minor increase of $0.00013.
The exchange rate has fluctuated significantly over the past week, with a notable decrease of $0.0029 on Saturday, January 11th, 2025, bringing the rate to $100 = $0.635.

Here's a breakdown of the exchange rate changes over the past week:
It's worth noting that the exchange rate has been relatively stable on the 9th and 10th of January, with only minor fluctuations.
Concorde $100 Note Begins Circulation
The Concorde $100 note was a significant introduction to Jamaican currency, marking a notable change in the country's financial landscape. On December 1, 1986, the J$100 note began circulation, replacing the $20 banknote as the largest denomination of Jamaican currency.
The $100 bill featured the likeness of former prime minister Donald Sangster on its face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the person on the $100 bill in Jamaica?
The person on the $100 bill in Jamaica is Sir Donald Sangster, a former Prime Minister of Jamaica. He is featured on the front of the bill, while Dunn's River Falls is depicted on the back.
Sources
- https://en.numista.com/catalogue/note213806.html
- https://boj.org.jm/core-functions/currency/bank-notes/
- https://www.real-jamaica-vacations.com/jamaican-money.html
- https://jmd.currencyrate.today/convert/amount-100-to-usd.html
- https://our.today/this-day-in-jamaican-history-concorde-100-note-begins-circulation/
Featured Images: pexels.com