10 piastres 1971-80

Common. The 1971-1986 issuance period for the 10 piastres denomination (Pick P-183 series) had substantial print runs typical of circulating low-denomination notes. The eBay market data confirms this assessment, with VF examples selling for approximately $1 and UNC examples catalogued at $4 (2019 values). Notes trading in this price range are standard circulation issues with no scarcity premium. The Pick P-183e variety (flag with two stars without text line) is one of several recognized varieties within the base P-183 number, but no evidence suggests it was issued in limited quantities.

Issued during the presidency of Anwar Sadat in the post-1967 war period, this 1971 note represents Egypt's currency modernization under the Arab Republic regime. The front design depicting multiple figures in traditional dress gathered together reflects nationalist themes and cultural pride following Egypt's territorial and political restructuring. The bilingual presentation (Arabic on front, English on reverse) and signatures of finance officials document the institutional framework governing Egyptian monetary policy during this transformative decade.

The front design features an allegorical group scene on the right side depicting multiple Egyptian figures in traditional dress, representing the people of Egypt, with a flag or standard visible in the composition—a nationalist motif common to 1970s Arab nation-state currency design. The left side contains Arabic inscriptions identifying the issuer and officials. The entire note is framed by an intricate geometric and floral ornamental border with cream/off-white background. A large central star-shaped medallion with ornamental framing serves as a primary security feature. The reverse presents a more austere, symmetrical design with two large decorative oval frames flanking a center band containing English-language inscription and denomination text. The left oval contains a geometric lattice pattern, while the right oval remains plain, creating a balanced compositional design. Fine-line engraving techniques are evident throughout both sides.

FRONT: جمهورية مصر العربية (Arab Republic of Egypt); أوراق البنك المركزى (Central Bank Notes); وزير المالية (Minister of Finance); أحمد أبو إسماعيل (Ahmad Abu Ismail - signature); Serial number: 524163; Series designation: S/34. REVERSE: THE ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT; CURRENCY NOTE; ISSUED UNDER LAW; 10 PIASTRES (denomination); MINISTER OF FINANCE; A.A. Jamail (signature); SURVEY AUTHORITY (printer).

Intaglio engraving (line engraving), the traditional security printing method used by the Survey Authority as stated on the reverse. The fine geometric mesh patterns throughout the borders, the detailed decorative flourishes, and the sharp definition of the group scene and calligraphy are characteristic of high-quality intaglio production. Security features including the star medallion and intricate border work were produced using steel plate engraving to prevent counterfeiting.

This note is identified as Pick P-183e based on the observed flag design with two stars positioned at the upper center between the issuer's name and denomination, specifically without a small text line—a characteristic distinguishing it from related varieties P-177, P-178 (similar design with text line), P-181 (no text line, different context), and P-175, P-184 (different flag designs). The signature of Ahmad Abu Ismail as Minister of Finance and the series designation S/34 are noted. The printer is identified as the Survey Authority. No overprints are visible on this example, distinguishing it from comparative notes like P-171.