1 pula 1982

Common. This note, while from the first year of Botswana's pula currency, was issued in substantial quantities. eBay auction data spanning 2009-2026 shows consistent market availability with UNC examples typically realizing $4-12 USD, with a 2019 catalog value of $5 for UNC grade. The regular appearance of this note in auctions and its modest price point indicate it is readily available to collectors and represents no scarcity premium.

Issued in 1982-1983 following Botswana's monetary independence, this note represents the early years of the pula currency and President Masire's leadership during the country's economic development. The reverse design prominently features cattle (lemang dijo in Setswana) and grain plants, symbolizing the agricultural and pastoral traditions that were central to Botswana's economy and identity during this period of nation-building.

The obverse features a dignified portrait of President Sir Ketumile (Quett) Masire positioned in the left-center area, rendered in fine engraved detail wearing formal business attire (suit and tie). The reverse displays Botswana's national coat of arms as the central focal point, flanked by two circular medallions: the left depicting cattle heads (reflecting the nation's pastoral wealth and the Setswana inscription 'LEMANG DIJO'), and the right showing millet or grain plants (representing agricultural productivity). The entire note is framed by elaborate geometric border patterns and ornamental line work typical of Bank of Botswana's early series design. Text appears in both English and Setswana, reflecting the nation's bilingual official policy.

FRONT: 'Bank of BOTSWANA' (English), 'MINISTER OF FINANCE' (English), 'GOVERNOR' (English), 'This note is legal tender for One Pula' (English), 'P.S. Mmusi' (signature of Minister of Finance), Governor's signature, Serial number: £P055023. BACK: 'BANKA YA BOTSWANA' (Setswana - Bank of Botswana), 'Pula e Nngwe' (Setswana - One Pula), 'LEMANG DIJO' (Setswana - Cattle/Livestock), '1' (denomination marker), printer attribution to De La Rue and Company Limited.

Intaglio engraving (recess printing) executed by Thomas de la Rue and Company Limited, London. The visual analysis reveals characteristic fine engraved hatching, cross-hatching in background areas, and complex geometric pattern borders that are hallmarks of traditional security printing. The sharp detail and precision of the portrait and symbolic elements confirm the high-security engraving standards employed for this inaugural currency series.

This note corresponds to Pick catalog P-6a (primary variety). The visual analysis identifies this as a regular issue (not specimen or overprinted variant). The serial number format (£P055023) and signature of P.S. Mmusi as Minister of Finance are consistent with the standard 1982-1983 circulation issue. PMG records indicate P-6a and P-6s (specimen) variants exist for this Pick number; this appears to be the P-6a regular circulation issue variant.