1 pound 1957

Common. While this is a historically significant note from Jamaica's independence year, the Pick P-41b variant appears in standard circulation across multiple date variants (1950-1960 issue period). eBay market data shows regular trading with UNC specimens selling in the $150-250 range, consistent with common collectible banknotes. The note was produced in substantial quantities by a major security printer, and no evidence suggests limited print runs or recall status for this specific variety.

This note was issued during the final years of British colonial rule in Jamaica, specifically dated one week before Jamaica's independence on 22 August 1957. The portrait of King George VI on the obverse reflects Jamaica's continued ties to the British Crown at the time of independence, while the Jamaican coat of arms on the reverse symbolizes the island's emerging national identity. The note represents a transitional period in Jamaica's monetary history, issued by the Government of Jamaica's currency commissioners shortly before the establishment of independent monetary authority.

The obverse features a formal portrait of King George VI positioned within an ornate scalloped circular frame on the left side, rendered in the formal dress style typical of mid-20th century royal portraiture. The denomination 'ONE POUND' is prominently displayed in the center. The design incorporates elaborate geometric patterns, ornamental corner elements, and fine crosshatching throughout as anti-counterfeiting measures. The reverse displays the Jamaican coat of arms—the official heraldic symbol of Jamaica—positioned centrally within a circular frame at the top. Symmetrical ornamental elements flank the arms, featuring stylized decorative motifs in pink and green. Both sides incorporate intricate fine-line engraving with multicolored elements (green, pink, yellow, and cream) creating a sophisticated, detailed appearance typical of Thomas de la Rue's high-security currency printing.

FRONT: 'GOVERNMENT OF JAMAICA' (issuing authority); 'CURRENCY NOTES ARE LEGAL TENDER FOR THE PAYMENT OF ANY AMOUNT' (legal tender declaration); 'ONE POUND' (denomination); '15th August 1957' (issue date); 'CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF CURRENCY' (signatory title); Serial number '98B42814' (unique identifier); 'THOMAS DE LA RUE & COMPANY LIMITED, LONDON' (printer attribution). BACK: 'GOVERNMENT OF JAMAICA' (issuing authority); 'ONE' and 'POUND' (denomination displayed separately).

Intaglio engraving (recess printing) executed by Thomas de la Rue & Company Limited, London. The note exhibits characteristic intaglio features including fine-line crosshatching, intricate geometric patterns, and detailed ornamental designs with excellent clarity and definition. The multicolored printing on the reverse demonstrates advanced color separation and registration techniques. Security features include complex geometric crosshatch patterns throughout and dual serial number printing.

Pick P-41b variant, specifically the 15th August 1957 dated specimen. The PMG population report indicates two cataloged variants (P-41a and P-41b) distinguished by printer designations, with both printed by Thomas de la Rue. The visual analysis confirms 'THOMAS DE LA RUE & COMPANY LIMITED, LONDON' attribution. The serial number format (98B42814) follows the standard two-letter prefix system used during this issue period. The specific date of 15th August 1957 is historically significant as it precedes Jamaica's independence by one week, making this a pre-independence note from the Government of Jamaica period.