1 markkaa 1918

Common. The 1918 1 Markka (Pick-35) remains a common note in the numismatic market. Evidence from eBay transaction data shows consistent sales of this denomination across multiple condition grades (F, VF, AUNC) with prices typically ranging from $3-17 USD, indicating a healthy supply. Catalog values from 2016 reflect modest pricing (VG: $0.50, VF: $1.50, UNC: $5), further confirming this is a widely available note. The print run for early Finnish banknotes was substantial, and this note was not recalled or issued for a limited period.

This note was issued in 1918, the pivotal year of Finland's independence from Russia following the Russian Revolution and the Finnish Declaration of Independence. The design notably lacks the czarist eagle that appeared on earlier Finnish banknotes under Russian rule, symbolizing the nation's newfound sovereignty. The bilingual Finnish-Swedish inscriptions reflect Finland's dual linguistic heritage and the country's effort to establish its own monetary identity immediately following independence.

The obverse features a striking symmetrical composition with two large circular medallions positioned on the left and right, each containing the numeral '1' with 'SUOMEN MARKAN' inscribed in the left circle and 'MARK' in the right, representing the Finnish and Swedish names for the denomination. The centerpiece is an ornate decorative medallion displaying elaborate scrollwork and floral motifs characteristic of Belle Époque design sensibilities. A decorative geometric border pattern with meanders frames the entire design. The reverse displays a large central rosette or sunburst pattern composed of radiating wavy lines emanating from a central numeral '1', creating a distinctive star-burst frame—a geometric, non-figurative design typical of security printing practices of the era. Both sides employ fine intaglio line work and repetitive wave patterns as anti-counterfeiting measures.

Front side: 'SUOMEN PANKKI' (Finland's Bank - Finnish), 'FINLANDS BANK' (Finland's Bank - Swedish), 'SUOMEN MARKAN' (Finland's Mark - Finnish), 'MARSAA TASTA SETELISTA' (Marked from this note - Finnish), 'INLOSER DENNA SEDEL MED' (Enclosed this note with - Swedish), 'KIILASSA' (Locked/Wedged - Finnish), 'GULD' (Gold - Swedish), with serial number '12575071' and date '1918'. Back side: 'SUOMEN' (Finnish - Finnish), 'PANKKI' (Bank - Finnish), 'FINLANDS' (Finland's - Swedish), 'BANK' (Bank - Swedish), 'MARKKA' (Mark - Finnish), 'MARK' (Mark - Finnish/Swedish).

Intaglio printing (engraved plates), characterized by the fine line work, sharp detail, and the intricate wave pattern work visible throughout both the obverse and reverse. The moiré effect created by the repetitive wavy lines on the reverse is a deliberate security feature of intaglio printing. The precision and fineness of the line work, particularly in the central ornamental elements and border designs, are consistent with high-quality security printing standards of 1918. The printer for this series is not definitively identified in available catalogs, though Suomen Pankki likely contracted with a European security printer.

Serial number '12575071' is observed on this example. This specific note lacks the czarist eagle that appeared on the predecessor P-19, which is a significant design change reflecting Finland's independence rather than a true variety. Signatures and serial number prefixes may vary across the print run, but such variations are not formally cataloged as distinct varieties for this Pick number. The handwritten signature visible in the center is consistent with the issuing practices of early Finnish banknotes where officials signed each note.