The currency in St Helena and Ascension is the Saint Helena Pound (SHP) which is equivalent to the British Pound (GBP). The notes and coins are similar to their British equivalents. GBP currency is accepted on both islands. 

Bank of St Helena is able to exchange foreign currency for SHP.  A limited supply of foreign currency is also available for exchange, these currencies include South African Rand (ZAR), EURO and US Dollar (USD).
Customers should note that Bank of St Helena Ltd, intermittently, has available a supply of UK Sterling (GBP) and South African Rand (ZAR) for which a 2% exchange commission is charged.
The Rates of Exchange used by Bank of St Helena are advertised on our Foreign Exchange Rates page, they are set for a period of one week and are effective every Monday.

Both branches can advance cash against major Credit or Debit Cards in the following schemes:

5% charge on the value of the amount withdrawn, minimum charge £2.50

To conduct Cash Advance Service transactions you should be aware that:

• We need to see an identification document which carries a signature and a photograph (e.g. a valid passport).
• We can only advance cash where we can successfully achieve online authorisation using our card terminal.
• Your card issuer may also charge you additional fees which are outside our control.

Local currency, ie. SHP notes and coins, are only accepted on St Helena and Ascension. It is therefore advisable to change back any surplus local currency before leaving the islands.

Credit and Debit Cards are not widely accepted for payment on St Helena or Ascension, although they can be used to obtain cash at the Bank of St Helena branches.  It is therefore advisable to have a supply of local cash.