10 shillings 1964

Common. This is a regular issue from a major government printer (Bradbury Wilkinson) with a substantial circulation period (1957-1965). eBay market data shows examples in circulated condition (F) selling for approximately $23-24, and even PMG-graded VF examples achieving only around $50, with UNC reaching $500. The AU grade in this catalog represents solid collector value but does not indicate rarity—rather, it reflects good preservation of a note that was produced in quantities typical of regular currency issues. The standard Pick catalog single-listing approach (with only minor variants P-52d and P-52e noted) confirms this is a straightforward, non-scarce issue.

Issued during Fiji's transition period following independence from British colonial rule (achieved in 1970, though this note predates formal independence), this 10 Shillings note represents the Government of Fiji's early monetary authority under the still-reigning Queen Elizabeth II. The note's design, featuring the Queen's portrait and produced by the prestigious British security printer Bradbury Wilkinson, reflects Fiji's Commonwealth status during the 1960s. The 'Commissioners of Currency' designation on the note underscores the formal monetary structures being established as Fiji moved toward greater autonomy.

The note features Queen Elizabeth II in left-facing profile within a circular medallion on the obverse right side, rendered in fine line engraving. The reverse displays two large blank circular medallions (left and right) with geometric sunburst or radiating patterns, which were typical design elements for security purposes in mid-century Commonwealth banknotes. The architectural landmark visible above the 'GOVERNMENT OF FIJI' text on the front likely represents a significant Fijian structure or colonial-era government building. The entire design employs elaborate ornamental borders with scrollwork, filigree patterns, symmetrical corner ornaments with spiraling designs, and decorative rose or flower motifs—all characteristic of the refined engraving standards applied by Bradbury Wilkinson to high-security currency production.

Front side: 'GOVERNMENT OF FIJI' (issuing authority), 'TEN SHILLINGS' (denomination), '1ST SEPTEMBER, 1964' (issue date), 'THESE NOTES ARE LEGAL TENDER FOR THE PAYMENT OF ANY AMOUNT' (legal tender clause), 'for the GOVERNMENT OF FIJI' (official authority), 'COMMISSIONERS OF CURRENCY' (issuing body), 'BRADBURY WILKINSON & CO 19 ENGLAND' (printer attribution), 'C 660919' (serial number). Back side: 'GOVERNMENT OF FIJI' (issuing authority), 'TEN SHILLINGS' (denomination), '10/-' (abbreviated denomination in top corners).

Intaglio (engraved) printing by Bradbury Wilkinson & Co., the renowned British security printer. The visual analysis confirms the use of fine line engraving with intricate filigree patterns, complex geometric patterns, and elaborate ornamental borders that are hallmarks of BWC's security printing work. The sharp clarity of all fine details observed in this AU specimen reflects the superior quality and precision of intaglio printing combined with high-quality paper stock.

This note is cataloged as Pick P-52d, with a known variant P-52e also issued by Bradbury Wilkinson. Both variants are part of the 1957-1965 issue series. The observed serial number 'C 660919' with the 'C' prefix represents one of the standard serial number ranges for this printing. No overprints, commemorative markings, or signature varieties are apparent in the visual analysis. The specific variety (P-52d vs. P-52e) would require comparison with other examples or reference to detailed printer-specific catalogs, though both variants are common.