50 drachmai 1944

Common. Secondary market data from eBay shows consistent sales activity over more than a decade (2009-2023) with numerous examples trading, predominantly in the $4-$20 range for notes in similar or better condition grades. Examples in Fine condition have sold for $3-$13 with regularity, indicating substantial circulation and availability. The note was a regular issue with no indication of limited print run or early recall. The catalog does not indicate scarcity.

This note was issued during a critical period in Greek history, following the German occupation and as the country transitioned toward liberation and reconstruction. Ioannis Kapodistrias, depicted on the obverse, was a revered Greek statesman and the first Governor of independent Greece, symbolizing national identity and governance. The University of Athens shown on the reverse represents Greek intellectual and cultural institutions, reflecting the nation's emphasis on education and civilization during this period of rebuilding.

The obverse features a portrait of Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first Governor of Greece and a prominent 19th-century statesman, rendered in fine classical engraving style showing him in profile facing left with period-appropriate formal dress and beard. He is positioned within an ornate circular medallion frame. The central design element is a large unfilled circular area (intended for watermark insertion) surrounded by decorative laurel wreaths, symbolizing victory and classical Greek heritage. The reverse depicts the neoclassical main building of the University of Athens with prominent Doric or Ionic columns and a symmetrical portico, representing Greek intellectual achievement and institutional authority. Both sides feature elaborate decorative border patterns, corner ornamental designs, and ribbons with inscriptions framing the central elements. The color scheme is predominantly green on cream/beige background with fine black engraving lines throughout.

Front side: ΤΡΑΠΕΖΑ ΤΗΣ ΕΛΛΑΔΟΣ = 'Bank of Greece'; ΔΡΑΧΜΑΙ ΠΕΝΤΑΚΟΣΙΑΙ = 'Five Hundred Drachmai'; Ημπρωτεται επι τη ευφανισει εν Αθηναις ο διευθυντης ο δικαιωτης = 'It is guaranteed upon presentation in Athens by the director and the authorizing official'; ΨΑ-131 469 724 = Serial number. Back side: ΤΡΑΠΕΖΑ ΤΗΣ ΕΛΛΑΔΟΣ = 'Bank of Greece'; ΔΡΑΧΜΑΙ ΠΕΝΤΑΚΟΣΙΑΙ = 'Five Hundred Drachmai'; Denomination 500 appears in multiple locations on both sides.

Intaglio engraving (line engraving), as evidenced by the fine detailed rendering of the portrait, architectural elements, and decorative patterns visible in the visual analysis. The printer is identified as BWC (Bradbury, Wilkinson & Company), one of Europe's premier security printers, which is consistent with the high-quality engraving observed. No additional security features beyond fine engraving are apparent, which is typical of Greek drachmai notes from this era.

Pick number P-171a identifies the 500 Drachmai variant with printer BWC (Bradbury, Wilkinson & Company). The serial number observed is ΨΑ-131 469 724. This appears to be the standard variant documented in PMG records. No overprints or signature varieties are apparent from the visual analysis. The note is undated (ND notation) with issue year 1944, which is standard for this series.