10 cents 1942

Common. The eBay market data shows consistent sales in the $0.30-$3.25 range for circulated examples, with even premium PMG 66 graded specimens selling for $15.45-$35.67, indicating healthy supply and relatively modest collector demand. The catalog value for UNC grade is listed at $1, and auction activity demonstrates these notes are readily available in all grades. Japanese occupation currency of Burma was issued in substantial quantities and remains common in the numismatic market.

Issued during Japan's occupation and administration of Burma in World War II, this note bears the 'THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT' inscription and reflects the military administration's currency system imposed on the territory. The Japanese imperial seal or emblem visible at the bottom center underscores the official Japanese governmental authority over the issuance. This currency type was part of the broader Japanese occupation monetary system used across Southeast Asia during 1942-1945.

The note features a symmetrical design centered around the denomination. The front displays 'THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT' and 'TEN CENTS' inscriptions with the Japanese imperial seal at the base, flanked by ornamental scrollwork and floral motifs. Both sides employ elaborate decorative borders with intricate crosshatch patterns and scrolling designs in all four corners containing the numeral '10' in rectangular cartouches. The reverse side emphasizes a large central '10' surrounded by an ornamental frame, maintaining the same decorative aesthetic. The overall design reflects the formal, classical engraving style typical of official government currency.

Front: 'THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT' (English inscription identifying the issuing authority), 'TEN CENTS' (English denomination), 'BZ' (series designation), '10' (numerical denomination in all four corners). Back: '10' (large central numeral repeated in four corner cartouches).

This note was produced using intaglio (engraved) printing, as evidenced by the detailed fine line work, intricate crosshatch patterns throughout the background, and the pronounced three-dimensional quality visible in the security features. The precision of the border designs and ornamental scrollwork is consistent with high-quality government security printing practices of the era. The printer for Japanese Government occupation notes of this period was typically the Government Printing Bureau (Nippon Printing Company or similar official Japanese security printers).

Pick P-11a designation indicates this is the standard variety of the Japanese Government 10 Cents note for Burma. The 'BZ' series designation visible on the front is consistent with catalog documentation. No overprints, signature varieties, or other distinguishing marks of different varieties are evident in this specimen. This represents the regular issue type as documented in the Pick catalog.