1 pound 1949

Common. eBay market data shows VF examples consistently selling in the $14-50 range (with most VF sales between $16-26), indicating a readily available note in collector channels. The 2016 catalog value of $12.50 for VF and extensive sales history across multiple condition grades confirm steady supply. This was a regular issue of the Government of Malta with substantial print runs, and no evidence suggests limited availability or scarcity in this grade.

This banknote was issued during Malta's period under British governance, following the Currency Notes Ordinance of 1949. The prominent display of King George VI reflects Malta's Commonwealth status at the time, while the Maltese Cross and heraldic shield on the obverse assert local identity. The note represents a transitional period in Maltese monetary history, preceding the country's independence in 1964 and the eventual adoption of the Maltese Lira.

The obverse features a formal portrait of King George VI in an oval frame on the right side, depicted in business attire with suit and tie, reflecting the monarch's role as head of state. On the left side is the Maltese Cross superimposed over a heraldic shield, representing Maltese national identity and sovereignty. The reverse displays an ornamental design with symmetrical acanthus leaf motifs flanking a blank heraldic cartouche, typical of de la Rue's refined engraving aesthetic. The overall design uses a cream/beige background with maroon and brown printing, creating an elegant and dignified appearance befitting Commonwealth currency of the mid-20th century.

Front: 'GOVERNMENT OF MALTA' (top center); 'ONE POUND' (center); '£1' (corner denominations); 'THIS NOTE IS LEGAL TENDER FOR IN MALTA AND ITS DEPENDENCIES AND IS ISSUED UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE CURRENCY NOTES ORDINANCE 1949' (legal text); 'FOR THE CURRENCY BOARD' (authorization line); Serial numbers: A 14 8820195 and A 8820192. Reverse: 'THOMAS DE LA RUE & COMPANY, LIMITED.' (printer attribution).

Intaglio engraving by Thomas de la Rue & Company, Limited of London, the premier British security printer of the era. The sharp, detailed line work visible throughout both sides—evident in the portrait rendering, border patterns, and acanthus leaf decorations—is characteristic of fine steel plate engraving. The crisp impressions and precise detail preservation indicate high-quality intaglio production standards.

Pick number P-22a per PMG catalog. The note exhibits the standard Thomas de la Rue printing (TDLR) without apparent overprints or variants. Serial number prefix 'A' with the observed sequence A 14 8820195 is consistent with the standard issue. No major varieties such as color variants or signature changes are evident from the visual analysis, suggesting this is the primary standard issue of the 1949 Law pound note.