2 rupees 1960

Common. Although the 1960 2 Rufiyaa is from the early independent Maldivian currency period and possesses historical significance, the extensive eBay transaction history shows consistent UNC sales averaging $25–$62 over a 15-year period, with numerous examples appearing in the market regularly. The 2016 catalog value of $5 UNC and the frequency of sales evidence substantial surviving examples. The Pick 3b variety, while cataloged as a distinct issue, does not command premium pricing relative to other varieties, and the abundance of auction appearances confirms a robust supply of specimens.

The 1960 2 Rufiyaa represents the Maldivian State Treasury's early efforts to establish a modern currency system following the nation's transition toward independence. The prominent imagery of palm trees and traditional dhow sailing vessels reflects the Maldives' maritime heritage and tropical economy during this period. The architectural pavilion depicted on the reverse (the royal jetty) symbolizes governmental authority and the nation's connections to the sea, though this structure was later demolished during port development—making this note a historical record of vanished landmarks.

The front of the note features a sophisticated bi-partite design with two circular vignettes: the left circular frame contains a tropical beach scene with a stylized palm tree, ocean waves, and a sailing dhow in the background, while the right circular vignette depicts a traditional Maldivian sailing dhow vessel in profile on the water. These vignettes are separated by an ornamental central device containing the denomination. The reverse displays the 'Royal Jetty' pavilion—a traditional waterfront shelter structure with supporting pillars situated along a beach landscape—positioned at center-right with a large decorative circular rosette floral pattern on the left side. The entire composition employs fine guilloche patterns and intricate line work as security elements, with large stylized denomination numerals in corner flourishes. The color palette of browns, blues, pinks, greens, and tan creates a warm, inviting aesthetic reflecting the tropical setting.

Front: 'الدولة المالديشية' (Maldive State) in decorative Arabic banner at top; Serial number '0404252' printed in numerical form at bottom. Back: 'الدولة المالديشية' (Maldive State) in decorative Arabic banner at top; Denomination numeral '2' in corner flourishes. All inscriptions are rendered in the official Arabic script appropriate to the Maldives' Islamic heritage.

Intaglio (engraved) printing process, evidenced by the fine guilloche patterns, complex line work, intricate hatching throughout the vignettes, and the precise detail visible in the security printing elements. The sharp impression and crisp registration of colors typical of classic banknote engraving is evident in both the front and reverse designs. The specific printer for Pick 3b has not been definitively established in standard catalogs, though the technical quality suggests work by an established security printer.

This note is cataloged as Pick 3b, one of at least 10 documented varieties of the 2 Rufiyaa denomination. PMG records show variants P-3a, P-3as, P-3b, P-3bs, P-3s, and P-30a through P-35a (higher denominations). The 'b' designation in Pick 3b indicates a specific printing or date variety within the 1960 issue; the Islamic calendar date AH1379 corresponds to 1959–1960 in the Gregorian calendar, consistent with the cataloged 1960 Western date. Serial number format and security printing variations may distinguish this variety from P-3a or other related types, though definitive variety markers require comparison with reference specimens.