10 markkaa 1918
Market Prices
3 salesAbout This Note
This 1918 Finnish 10 Markkaa note is a beautifully preserved example of early independent Finland's currency, graded VF. The obverse features an elegant spruce tree surrounded by ornamental laurel wreaths in mauve and purple-brown tones, while the reverse depicts a charming rural log cottage nestled in a forested landscape—both quintessentially Finnish imagery. The crisp printing, clear inscriptions in both Finnish and Swedish, and minimal wear make this an attractive example of Suomen Pankki's inaugural currency issue.
Common. The eBay price tracking data shows VF examples regularly selling in the $18-21 range (2017-2018), with catalogue values placing VF grade at approximately $20. The consistent market pricing and multiple recent sales indicate adequate supply. This was a regular issue from Finland's central bank with presumably substantial print runs to serve the newly independent nation's currency needs. No evidence of scarcity or special collector demand beyond standard numismatic interest.
Issued in 1918, immediately following Finland's declaration of independence from Russia, this note represents the newly sovereign nation's first autonomous currency. The pastoral imagery—the spruce tree and farmhouse with livestock—deliberately evokes Finland's agrarian heritage and natural landscape, establishing national identity through symbolism. The dual-language inscriptions (Finnish and Swedish) reflect the country's bilingual character during this transformative period.
The obverse design features a central spruce tree (Picea abies), Finland's most iconic conifer, positioned within an ornate oval frame flanked by classical laurel wreaths symbolizing peace and prosperity. The spruce serves as a national emblem, representing Finland's vast forests and natural wealth. The reverse depicts a traditional Finnish log cottage (typical of 19th-century rural architecture) situated in a pastoral landscape with surrounding forest, reinforcing agrarian values. Both sides employ fine crosshatch patterns and intricate guilloche work as anti-counterfeiting measures, with elaborate circular and radiating line patterns framing the central imagery. A heraldic shield or coat of arms appears at the bottom center of both sides, representing Finnish state authority.
Front side — Finnish: 'SUOMENLAINAPANKKI' (Bank of Finland Loan), 'MAKSAA TASTA SETELISTA' (Pays from this note), 'KYMMENEN MARKKAA' (Ten Markkaa), 'MARKKAIN KULLASSA' (In gold markkaa). Swedish: 'FINLANDS PANK' (Bank of Finland), 'UNDER DENNA SEDEL I GULD' (Under this note in gold). Back side — Finnish: 'SUOMENLAINAPANKKI' (Bank of Finland Loan). Swedish: 'FINLANDS PANK' (Bank of Finland). Both sides display the denomination '10' in circular medallions. Serial number observed: 6483530.
Intaglio engraving (line engraving/steel plate engraving), evidenced by the fine crosshatch background patterns, precise guilloche work, and the depth and clarity of the impressions visible in the ornamental borders and denominational numerals. The subtle color gradations and the crisp, sharp rendering of fine details are characteristic of high-quality intaglio production. The printer for this series was likely Suomen Pankki's designated security printer, consistent with Finnish practice of this era.
Pick P-37 represents the standard 1918 issue with one catalogued variant in the PMG population report. The observed serial number 6483530 appears in standard format without notable overprints or modifications. This example shows no evidence of being from a special printing, emergency issue, or rare serial number prefix. The bilingual Finnish/Swedish text is standard for this issue and not a variety marker.
