10 rupees 1968

Uncommon to Scarce. While not extremely rare, this note is less frequently encountered than many other denominations from the same series. The eBay price history provided shows consistent market values with UNC examples selling for $500–$600 (2015–2024 range), and PMG-graded examples commanding premiums. The 1968 issue date represents an earlier printing period, and this specific Pick number variant is less common in high grades than later 1974 issues. The novelty factor of the 'SCUM' inscription has sustained collector interest, supporting sustained valuation above typical banknote levels for the region.

Issued on 1st January 1968 by the Government of Seychelles, this note commemorates the early period of the Seychelles as a British colony, as evidenced by the prominent portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and the gubernatorial signature of H.S. Norman-Walker. The design elements—including the sea turtle, tropical vegetation, and rowing figure—reflect the island nation's rich maritime heritage and natural resources, serving as cultural symbols of Seychelles' identity during this formative post-colonial period.

The obverse features a formal portrait of Queen Elizabeth II positioned at right, dressed in military regalia with white collar detail, representing British sovereignty over the colony. The left side contains ornamental floral and geometric decorative elements framing the denomination numeral '10'. A sea turtle is centrally positioned in the lower portion—a key design element representing Seychelles' natural fauna. The reverse displays a symmetrical composition of abstract geometric and floral patterns in blue and green tones, with the denomination repeated across the bottom. A rowing figure and tropical vegetation are depicted on the obverse, emphasizing the island's maritime culture. The dominant color scheme of light blue and teal, combined with intricate fine-line engraving throughout, creates a sophisticated colonial-era aesthetic.

Front Side: 'GOVERNMENT OF SEYCHELLES' (issuing authority); '10' and 'TEN RUPEES' (denomination); '1ST JANUARY, 1968' (issue date); 'H.S. NORMAN-WALKER' (Governor's signature); 'GOVERNOR' (title designation); 'A2971119' (serial number). Back Side: 'GOVERNMENT OF SEYCHELLES' (issuing authority); 'TEN RUPEES' (denomination); '10' repeated five times (denomination numerals). All inscriptions are in English.

Intaglio (engraved) printing, evidenced by the fine detail work, intricate line-work borders, complex geometric patterns, and precise security features visible in both the portraits and decorative elements. The detailed floral patterns and security engraving are characteristic of high-security banknote production from this era. While the specific security printer is not definitively documented in standard references for Pick 15a, the technical quality suggests production by one of the established British Commonwealth banknote printers of the period.

This is identified as Pick 15a, representing the 1968 issue with the signature of Governor H.S. Norman-Walker. The serial number observed (A2971119) indicates an A-series prefix. Known varieties for this Pick include signature variations by different governors; the Norman-Walker signature variety is documented. The famous 'SCUM' acronym (discernible beneath the tortoise's rear flipper) is an integral design feature of this entire series and not a printing error, making all examples technically possess this characteristic. The note exhibits the characteristic parrot's head watermark documented in this Pick number.