1 dollar 1974
Market Prices
9 salesAbout This Note
This is an uncirculated 1974 Cayman Islands Currency Board One Dollar note (Pick P-5b) featuring Queen Elizabeth II in profile on the obverse and a detailed marine scene with tropical fish and coral on the reverse. The note exhibits pristine condition with crisp paper, sharp impressions, and no signs of wear, circulation, or handling—hallmarks of a true uncirculated specimen. The fine line engraving and multi-colored design demonstrate the high-quality craftsmanship of Thomas de la Rue's London printing works.
Common. While this is a 1974 issue from a small island territory, eBay market data shows consistent sales activity with UNC specimens selling in the $11-13 range in recent years (2020-2026), well below the $110 2019 catalogue value. The existence of seven documented Pick number variants (P-5a through P-5f) suggests reasonable production quantities. The regular appearance of this note in the secondary market at modest prices indicates it is readily available to collectors.
This note was issued under the Cayman Islands Currency Law of 1974, marking an important transition in the territory's monetary independence as it established its own currency board. The marine imagery—prominently featuring coral reefs, tropical fish, and underwater formations—reflects the Cayman Islands' identity as a Caribbean island nation dependent on its maritime environment and natural resources. The inclusion of Queen Elizabeth II's portrait underscores the Cayman Islands' status as a British Overseas Territory during this period.
The obverse features a formal portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in right profile, rendered in classical style with pearl earrings and formal dress, positioned on the right side of the note. The Cayman Islands coat of arms—a shield with wavy lines representing the maritime context and territorial inscription—is centered below the denomination. Ornate decorative elements include scrollwork, rosettes, and floral patterns throughout the border, with dollar sign ($) symbols placed in decorative cartouches at the corners. The reverse showcases an intricate underwater marine scene depicting a parrotfish among elaborate coral formations and rocky underwater structures, emphasizing the islands' natural marine heritage. Both sides employ fine line engraving with extensive cross-hatching and security borders.
Front side: 'Cayman Islands Currency Board' (issuer identification); 'This note is legal tender for One Dollar' (legal tender declaration); 'One Dollar' (denomination); 'Issued under the Cayman Islands Currency Law, 1974' (legislative authority); 'CHAIRMAN' (signature line designation). Back side: 'Cayman Islands' and 'Currency Board' (issuer identification); 'ONE DOLLAR' (denomination in capitals). Serial number observed: 3874026.
Intaglio (engraved) printing with multi-color lithographic underprint, executed by Thomas de la Rue & Company, London—the leading British currency printer of the era. The note exhibits the characteristic fine line work, elaborate cross-hatching patterns, and complex security borders typical of TDLR's premium banknote production. The watermark features a tortoise, an additional security feature integrated during the papermaking process.
This note is catalogued as Pick P-5b, indicating it represents a specific variety within the 1974 One Dollar issue. The serial number prefix 'A/3' observed in the visual analysis may correspond to this particular variety designation. PMG population data confirms P-5b is one of seven documented variants for this base Pick number. The specific variety likely relates to signature combinations, serial number prefixes, or minor design elements that distinguish it from P-5a, P-5c, P-5e, and P-5f variants.
