Honduras' New 200 Lempira Banknote: A Tribute to Berta Cáceres and Rumors of its Withdrawal from Circulation

The Central Bank of Honduras (BCH) circulated in January 2026 the new 200 lempira banknote featuring the face of the indigenous and environmentalist leader, National Heroine, Berta Cáceres, making her the first woman whose image graces a banknote in the history of Honduras. This launch generated great anticipation, but also controversy and rumors about a possible withdrawal of the banknote from the market. In this comprehensive article, we analyze everything: design, security features, historical context, economic impact, and hints of withdrawal.

Why a new 200 lempira banknote?

Honduras periodically updates its currency to incorporate advanced security measures against counterfeiting and to reflect national values. The new L200 banknote was launched on January 20, 2026, coinciding with Honduran Women's Day, and complies with Legislative Decree No. 62-2022 and Resolution No. 317-7/2024 of the BCH Board of Directors.

The banknote maintains exactly the same face value (200 lempiras) and circulates simultaneously with the previous version (that of the Bicentennial of Independence). Both are legal tender throughout the national territory. The BCH initially printed around 20 million pieces through the company Crane Currency Malta Limited.

Design and elements of the new 200 Lempira banknote

Obverse (front):

• Central portrait of Berta Cáceres, making her the first woman to be featured on a Honduran banknote.
• Artistic representation of the Gualcarque River (symbol of her environmental struggle).
• Elements of traditional Lenca fabric, highlighting indigenous cultural heritage.

Reverse (back):

• Panoramic view of La Esperanza, Intibucá (Berta's place of origin).
• Iconic phrase: “Let's wake up humanity! There is no more time!”
• Motifs of Honduran biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Advanced security measures (the most modern in the country):

• State-of-the-art dynamic security thread: when the banknote is tilted, a bell changes to the number “200” and the thread changes color (green to blue).
• Multitonal watermark with the date of Independence and the acronym “BCH”.
• Perfect register (texts that match on both sides).
• Elements visible under ultraviolet light, such as the Goldman Environmental Prize (2015).
• Color-changing inks, microtexts, holograms, and high-resolution patterns.

These elements make the new banknote much more difficult to counterfeit than previous versions.

Who was Berta Cáceres? The legacy immortalized on the currency

Berta Isabel Cáceres Flores (1971-2016) was a Lenca leader, co-founder of COPINH (Civic Council of Popular and Indigenous Organizations of Honduras). Her fight against the Agua Zarca hydroelectric dam on the Gualcarque River made her a global reference for the defense of territory, water, and indigenous rights.

She received the Goldman Prize in 2015. She was murdered on March 3, 2016. In 2018, a court convicted seven people linked to the case, including executives of the DESA company. Her death generated international outrage and brought to light the violence against environmental defenders in Honduras.

Including her image on the banknote represents a milestone: it is the first time a contemporary woman and an indigenous leader has taken a leading role in Honduran numismatics.

Rumors and insinuations of banknote withdrawal: What is really happening?

A few months after its launch, strong rumors arose that the BCH was withdrawing or ceasing to issue the new Berta Cáceres banknote. In March 2026, independent media reported that the banknote was no longer sold at Central Bank tellers, with arguments that it was a "limited commemorative edition for a few weeks."

Is the withdrawal official? To date, the BCH has not issued an official statement confirming the total withdrawal. Decree 62-2022 does not establish an expiration date. However:

• It is reported that it is no longer actively issued.
• There are complaints that both designs (previous and new) are still in circulation, but Berta's is becoming less common.
• Critics point to possible pressure from economic sectors affected by Berta's legacy (extractive companies and conservative sectors).

Some politicians, such as a National Party congresswoman, have spoken of "recovering national identity," interpreted by opponents as an attempt to reverse the homage. In addition, withdrawals of other symbols related to Berta (busts, murals) have been reported.

What do people say? On social media and forums, opinions are polarized: some celebrate the recognition of indigenous and women's struggles; others question the choice for ideological reasons or fear that it will generate divisions.

Economic and numismatic impact

• No inflationary effect — The BCH has been clear: the change in design does not alter purchasing power.
• Fight against counterfeiting — Old 200 L banknotes are among the most counterfeited; the new design seeks to reduce that risk.
• Collector's value — If its issuance is withdrawn or limited, specimens in good condition could acquire significant numismatic value in the future, similar to other limited editions in Latin America.

Comparison with other Honduran banknotes

Honduras has honored figures such as José Cecilio del Valle, Francisco Morazán, and national symbols on its currency. Berta's represents a shift towards recognizing contemporary, indigenous, and gender struggles, aligning with trends in countries like Mexico, Argentina, and the United Kingdom that have included women on their banknotes.

Recommendations for Hondurans

1. Verify authenticity — Use security measures (tilt, UV light, touch) before accepting 200 L banknotes.
2. Save specimens — If you have a new Berta banknote in excellent condition, keep it. It could become a collector's item.
3. Report counterfeits — Report any suspicious banknotes to the BCH or authorities.
4. Stay informed — Follow official Central Bank communiqués for circulation updates.

A banknote that transcends monetary value

The new 200 lempira banknote featuring Berta Cáceres is not just paper money. It is a symbol of historical memory, recognition of indigenous resistance, and a commitment to greater financial security. The rumors of withdrawal reflect Honduras' political and economic tensions, but as long as it circulates, it represents a daily reminder that "there is no time" to defend territory and human rights.

Have you seen the new Berta Cáceres banknote in circulation? Do you think it should be maintained indefinitely or that the BCH should clarify its status? Share your experience in the comments. Stay informed about Honduran banknotes, BCH updates, and numismatic news.