Our National Symbols are representative of our rich history and culture. They define us as a people – Jamaicans who are proud of where we are coming from. 

The Jamaica National Flag
The Jamaica National Flag was first raised on Independence Day, August 6, 1962. It signifies the birth of our nation.

The Flag brings to mind memories of past achievements and gives inspiration towards further success. It is flown on many triumphant occasions, showing the pride that Jamaicans have in their country and in the flag itself.

Design
A bipartisan committee of the Jamaica House of Representatives designed the Jamaican Flag which consists of a diagonal cross with four triangles placed side by side. The diagonal cross is gold; the top and bottom triangles are green; and the hoist and fly (side) triangles are black. 

Symbolism 
“The sun shineth, the land is green and the people are strong and creative” is the symbolism of the colours of the flag. Black depicts the strength and creativity of the people; Gold, the natural wealth and beauty of sunlight; and green, hope and agricultural resources. 

Excerpts taken from:  Jamaica Information Service
 http://www.jis.gov.jm/special_sections/Independence/symbols.html 

Introduction of the Shilling Bank NotesIt was not until 1904 and the passing of the Currency Notes Law that the Jamaican Government began attempts to regularise the bank notes in the country. This law resulted in the issuing of bank notes valued at 10 shillings each.

This also became necessary as the country was experiencing a scarcity of silver coins in the lower denominations.
This law was later revised in 1918, which resulted in new denominations being issued on March 15, 1920 in the form of a two shillings six pence bank note (2/6), and 5 shillings (5/) and 10 shillings (10/) bank notes, 
all bearing the portrait of King George V. 


Excerpts taken from Jamaican Echoes...http://jamaicanechoes.wordpress.com/