10 shillings 1958

Common. The eBay price tracking data shows this note in VF condition selling consistently in the $19.99–$128.56 range, with 2016 catalog values of $65 VF and $275 UNC, indicating active collector market presence and reasonable supply. The Fair condition grade of this specimen would typically trade in the $15–$25 range based on comparative data. As a regular issue from the first year of CBN operations with substantial print runs to support the newly independent nation's currency needs, this Pick-3 denomination remains readily available in the numismatic market.

Issued on September 15, 1958, just weeks before Nigeria's independence on October 1, 1958, this banknote represents the Central Bank of Nigeria's inaugural currency issue. The reverse design prominently features agricultural labor and a water landscape, symbolizing Nigeria's reliance on agriculture and natural resources during this formative period. The note reflects the nation's transition from colonial currency to independent monetary sovereignty, with English inscriptions and classical colonial-era engraving techniques still prevalent in this early CBN issue.

The front features an ornate classical design with floral medallions in all four corners and elaborate guilloche security patterns. The left side depicts a tropical landscape with palm trees and vegetation overlooking a water body, while the right side contains a large decorative circular frame intended for a portrait (notably empty on this issue). The back showcases an agricultural scene central to Nigeria's economy: a male figure in the foreground holds agricultural vegetation/plants, with additional laborers visible in the background landscape near water and distant hills. The entire design employs intricate line work and engraving typical of 1950s Commonwealth currency. The color scheme is predominantly green, brown, and cream, emphasizing the natural and agricultural themes. No specific named portraits appear on this note; the imagery instead celebrates labor and natural resources rather than individual historical figures.

FRONT SIDE: 'FEDERATION OF NIGERIA' (country designation); 'CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA' (issuing authority); 'PROMISE TO PAY ON DEMAND THE SUM OF' (standard promissory clause); 'TEN SHILLINGS' (denomination in words, appears twice); '10/-' (denomination numerically, appears twice); 'E 204656' and 'I 204656' (serial numbers with letter prefixes); Arabic script visible at bottom right (specific text unclear from image). BACK SIDE: 'CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA' (issuing authority); 'TEN SHILLINGS' (denomination); '10/-' (numerical denomination, appears twice in corner medallions).

This note was produced using intaglio (steel engraving) printing, evidenced by the fine detailed line work, complex guilloche patterns, and the precision visible in the landscape scenes and border designs. The security features including the decorative guilloche patterns and fine background line work are characteristic of high-security intaglio production. The Central Bank of Nigeria's early notes were typically printed by De La Rue or similar established security printers, though specific printer attribution for this Pick-3 issue would require additional documentation. The multiple color printing (green, brown, cream) was achieved through multiple intaglio passes.

Serial number prefixes visible in this specimen are 'E' and 'I', indicating position markers within the printing sheet. The standard variety distinction for 1958 CBN 10 Shillings notes relates to signature varieties and serial number prefix combinations. This example with 'E 204656' and 'I 204656' represents one of the documented prefix varieties. No overprints or unusual printing variations are evident in this specimen. Catalog records indicate this Pick-3 issue remained in production through 1958 without major design changes, making serial number prefix and signature combinations the primary variety markers for this denomination.