1 pound 1972

Common. The eBay price history shows multiple examples selling in the UNC grade for approximately $26–$28 (2016–2019) and more recently for lower prices ($10–$16 range), indicating steady supply and consistent collector demand without scarcity premium. The catalog value of $45 UNC (2019) reflects a modest collector note rather than a rare issue. This note was part of the regular issue series (1972–1977) with substantial print runs typical of major British Isles banking institutions, and no evidence of recall or short production exists.

This note was issued during a period of significant change for Irish currency and banking. The Bank of Ireland's prominence in the design reflects its role as a major financial institution in Northern Ireland during the early 1970s, a politically turbulent period. The symbolic imagery—particularly the salmon representing natural resources, the modern Bank of Ireland building symbolizing economic stability, and the SS Canberra representing international trade—encapsulates the economic aspirations of post-partition Ireland during this era.

The obverse features a classical female head in profile at the left (representing a historical figure or classical ideal, located at the Belfast Donegall Place address of the bank), with the allegorical female figure of Hibernia positioned prominently on the right in classical robes. Multiple portrait heads are arranged in the center background, likely representing historical figures of significance to Ireland. The reverse depicts three elements symbolizing Irish economic life: a large salmon (representing Ireland's fisheries and natural resources), the modern five-story Bank of Ireland headquarters building in Dublin (symbolizing financial strength and institutional stability), and a passenger ship identified as the SS Canberra (representing maritime commerce and international trade). The heraldic emblem visible on Hibernia's garment bears the Latin inscription 'BONA FIDES REPUBLICA STABILITAS,' reinforcing themes of stability and good governance.

Front side: 'BANK of IRELAND' (issuing institution), 'Promise to pay the bearer on demand' (legal tender declaration), 'ONE pound' (denomination), 'BELFAST DONEGALL PLACE' (issuing location and address), 'For the Governor and Company of the BANK of IRELAND' (official authority), 'Manager' (authorization signature line), Serial numbers 'F8994XX' and 'F899435', Latin motto 'BONA FIDES REPUBLICA STABILITAS' (Good Faith, Republic, Stability). Back side: 'BANK of IRELAND' and 'ONE POUND' (repeated denomination and issuer identification).

Intaglio (engraved) printing, evidenced by the fine line work, intricate guilloche patterns, complex geometric designs, and precise shading visible throughout both sides of the note. The detailed engraving of portraits, architectural features, and naturalistic elements (fish, ship) demonstrates the sophisticated security printing standards employed by Bank of Ireland during this period. The note exhibits the characteristic crisp registration and depth of impression typical of high-security currency production from this era.

This example exhibits the serial number prefix 'F' and denomination 'ONE pound' without the word 'Sterling' (as noted in the realbanknotes.com reference), which is consistent with the 1972–1977 issue period. The specific serial numbers visible are F8994XX and F899435. No significant varieties are recorded for Pick 61b beyond standard signature and serial number variations. The condition grade of UNC is confirmed by the pristine appearance with no creases, folds, stains, or circulation wear observable.