5 shillings 1950

Common. The eBay price tracking data shows this note in fine condition consistently selling in the $71-$108.50 range, with catalog values for VG condition at $15 USD. These moderate prices and regular market appearances indicate wide circulation and survival of specimens. The note was issued over an 11-year period (1939-1950) by a major government issuer, suggesting substantial print runs. The VG condition grade observed here represents a typical circulated example.

This note was issued during the final years of British colonial rule in Cyprus, when the island remained under British administration. The prominent portrait of King George VI reflects Cyprus's status as a British possession at the time of issue. The bilingual English-Greek inscriptions indicate the island's mixed cultural heritage, while the design's ornate baroque-style decoration was typical of mid-20th century Commonwealth currency design.

The obverse features a formal portrait of King George VI positioned in profile facing right, enclosed within an ornate circular frame. The portrait is rendered in fine detail typical of high-security currency production. Surrounding the portrait are elaborate decorative borders featuring repeating geometric patterns, floral motifs, and intricate cross-hatching in blue and pink/mauve tones. The reverse is purely decorative, dominated by symmetrical baroque-style ornamentation with a central rectangular cartouche containing the issuer's name. The design employs a color palette of blue, pink/magenta, tan/beige, and brown across both sides, with fine line engraving work throughout creating a sense of complexity and security.

FRONT: 'ISSUED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF CYPRUS' (English) / 'ΠΕΝΤΕ ΣΕΛΙΝΙΑ' (Greek: Five Shillings) / 'FIVE SHILLINGS' (English) / '31ST JANUARY, 1950' (English date of issue) / 'COMMISSIONER OF CURRENCY' (English, authority signature line) / 'F054670' (serial number) / '5/-' (denomination). BACK: 'GOVERNMENT OF CYPRUS' (English, within central cartouche).

Intaglio engraving (recess printing), evidenced by the fine line work, intricate geometric patterns, and detailed portraiture visible throughout both sides. The precise cross-hatching, ornamental borders, and security features suggest production by a specialized security printer, likely British American Bank Note Company or similar Commonwealth currency printer, typical for notes of this era and issuing authority.

This note corresponds to Pick P-22 standard variety (not the P-22s variant). The serial number F054670 suggests this particular specimen falls within the regular production series. PMG population records indicate two catalogued variants for this Pick number (P-22 and P-22s), likely differentiated by signature varieties or minor design elements. The specific issue date of 31st January 1950 places this in the final months of the original issue period.