1 pound 1949

Common. Despite the AU condition grade, this note is common in the marketplace. The eBay price data shows consistent sales at modest levels (typically $24–$107 for EF to VF specimens, with UNC catalog value of $100 as of 2016), indicating healthy supply and collector accessibility. The note was part of regular issue production by the Government of Malta and Thomas de la Rue, with no historical evidence of limited print runs, recalls, or supply constraints that would render it scarce or rare.

This note was issued during Malta's post-war period under British influence, following the Currency Notes Ordinance of 1949, which established the legal framework for Malta's currency board. The prominent depiction of Queen Elizabeth II reflects Malta's status as a British Commonwealth territory during this era, while the Maltese Cross—a central symbol on the obverse—emphasizes national identity and heritage. The note represents an important transitional period in Maltese monetary history, preceding the country's eventual independence in 1964 and the later adoption of its own currency.

The obverse features Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in formal profile facing left, positioned on the right side of the note and wearing a tiara. The reverse displays an ornamental shield or coat of arms in the center, flanked by symmetrical feathered or palm frond decorative designs that suggest Malta's Mediterranean character. The obverse also prominently displays the Maltese Cross (also known as the George Cross, historically awarded to Malta for its valor in World War II) positioned on the left within a decorative square frame. Pound sterling symbols appear in all four corners, and the entire design is framed by ornamental scrollwork and decorative borders executed in fine line engraving. The cream and beige background with brown/maroon printing creates a dignified, classical aesthetic typical of mid-twentieth century Commonwealth currency.

Front side: 'GOVERNMENT OF MALTA' | 'ONE POUND' | 'THIS NOTE IS LEGAL TENDER FOR' | '£1' (in all four corners) | 'IN MALTA AND ITS DEPENDENCIES AND IS ISSUED UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE CURRENCY NOTES ORDINANCE 1949' | 'FOR THE CURRENCY BOARD' | Serial number: 'A 27 2962283' (printed twice). Back side: 'THOMAS DE LA RUE & COMPANY, LIMITED' (printer's identification). All inscriptions are in English.

Intaglio engraving (line engraving), the traditional method employed by Thomas de la Rue & Company, Limited, London. The fine line work, ornamental borders, detailed portraiture, and security features visible in the visual analysis—including the intricate patterns and dual serial number placement—are characteristic of De la Rue's premium intaglio production standards. No evidence of offset or other modern printing techniques is apparent.

This note is identified as Pick number P-24b, one of two catalogued variants under the base Pick number P-24 for the 1 pound denomination. Both P-24a and P-24b were printed by Thomas de la Rue & Company, Limited. The specific distinguishing factors between P-24a and P-24b (such as date variations, signature differences, or serial number prefix variations) are not fully detailed in the provided catalog data, but the 'b' designation typically indicates a minor variety distinction such as a different signatory or subtle printing variation. The observed serial number 'A 27 2962283' and the inscription 'CURRENCY NOTES ORDINANCE 1949' confirm this as an example of the 1949 issue type, though community references note circulation continued through 1954.