1 dollar 1956
Market Prices
2 salesAbout This Note
This is a stunning PMG 66 EPQ example of the British Honduras 1 Dollar from 1956, representing one of the earliest currency issues of the newly independent territory. The note displays exceptional preservation with crisp printing, vibrant green coloring, and no signs of circulation or wear. The portrait of Queen Elizabeth II positioned prominently on the right, combined with the ornate geometric borders and government seal, makes this an attractive specimen of mid-20th century Commonwealth currency design.
Common. While this specific note in PMG 66 EPQ condition represents quality examples, the 1 Dollar denomination from the 1956 Government of British Honduras issue was produced in standard quantities for circulation and remains readily available in the collector market. eBay pricing data shows even low-grade examples (VG) have modest value around $20-30, and VF specimens typically catalog around $85, indicating a stable but not scarce issue.
Issued on March 1, 1956, this note represents British Honduras' early post-war currency during a period of administrative transition. The prominence of the Government of British Honduras seal and the inclusion of Queen Elizabeth II's portrait reflect the territory's status as a British Crown colony at the time. The Commissioners of Currency designation indicates this was part of the formal monetary authority structure established to manage the colony's financial independence.
The obverse features Queen Elizabeth II in formal dress, positioned in an oval frame on the right side of the note, representing the British Crown's authority over the territory. The Government of British Honduras seal appears on the left, displaying a shield with crossed tools (pickaxe and machete, typical of Central American heraldic imagery) within a decorative wreath. The entire note is framed by intricate ornamental borders featuring geometric and floral patterns in green and cream tones. The reverse displays an elaborate symmetrical decorative panel with interlocking geometric and floral patterns in green, brown, and gold, characteristic of security printing design from this era. The color scheme of green on multicolored underprint creates visual distinction and anti-counterfeiting properties.
FRONT: 'THE GOVERNMENT OF BRITISH HONDURAS' - The Government of British Honduras | 'THESE NOTES ARE LEGAL TENDER FOR THE PAYMENT OF ANY AMOUNT' - These notes are legal tender for the payment of any amount | 'ONE DOLLAR' - One Dollar (denomination, appears twice) | 'For the GOVERNMENT OF BRITISH HONDURAS' - For the Government of British Honduras | 'BELIZE, 1ST. MARCH, 1956.' - Belize, 1st March, 1956 (issue date and location) | 'COMMISSIONERS OF CURRENCY' - Commissioners of Currency | Serial number: G/3 212513 BACK: 'THE GOVERNMENT OF BRITISH HONDURAS' - The Government of British Honduras
Intaglio printing (engraved/recess printing) executed by Babnote Works Company (BWC), as indicated in the PMG population data. This method produces the fine line detail visible throughout the geometric borders, portrait rendering, and ornamental patterns. The sharp, crisp impression and excellent ink adherence suggest professional-quality security printing typical of government currency production in the mid-20th century.
Pick number P-28a. The PMG population report indicates this Pick number exists in multiple variants (P-28a through P-28cts), primarily differentiated by printer designations (all listed variants show BWC printer except P-28cts). This specific note is the P-28a variety with BWC printing. The serial number prefix 'G/3' and the March 1, 1956 date are consistent with the standard issue. No overprints, cancellation marks, or specimen designations are visible, confirming this as a regular circulating issue rather than a remainder or specimen note.
