100 rupees 1979
Market Prices
5 salesAbout This Note
This is an uncirculated 1979 Seychelles 100 Rupees banknote (Pick P-26) in pristine condition, featuring the distinctive red color scheme that differentiates it from the brown variant (P-27). The obverse showcases an elaborate central red circular emblem with a stylized portrait, surrounded by intricate decorative line patterns in red, blue, yellow, and multicolored designs. The reverse presents classical allegorical female figures in fine engraving style with ornamental foliage and fish motifs. This note represents early post-independence currency design from the Seychelles Monetary Authority.
Common. The catalog value of $120 for UNC condition and eBay market data showing regular sales in the $30-$150 range (with most sales under $60) indicate this is a widely available note in the collector market. No evidence of restricted print runs or short-lived issuance. The note remained in circulation and production for several years, and specimens are readily obtainable.
Issued in 1979 by the newly independent Seychelles Monetary Authority, this banknote reflects the nation's identity during its early years of sovereignty (independence in 1976). The allegorical female figures on the reverse likely represent concepts of liberty, prosperity, or the nation itself, a common motif in post-colonial African currency design. The prominent incorporation of marine life imagery (fish, swordfish) reflects Seychelles' cultural and economic dependence on its island maritime environment.
The obverse features a prominent red circular seal or emblem at center containing a stylized portrait, likely representing a national figure or allegorical symbol of Seychelles. The design is framed by concentric circular line patterns and radiating geometric designs in the corners. The reverse presents a classical engraved vignette depicting two female allegorical figures—one with an elaborate circular headdress on the left and another complementary figure on the right—rendered in the neoclassical style typical of 1970s-era currency design. Decorative foliage, floral motifs, and stylized fish or sea creature elements at the base emphasize the maritime character. The palette of red/pink on cream-yellow background with gold accents creates a warm, dignified appearance characteristic of Commonwealth-influenced African currency design.
Front side: '100' (denomination in Arabic numerals), 'Seychelles' (country name), 'MONETARY AUTHORITY' (issuing institution), serial number 'A045437' (unique identifier), and signature 'Gurjhard' (official authorization). Back side: 'SEYCHELLES' (country name), 'MONETARY AUTHORITY' (issuing institution), 'ONE HUNDRED RUPEES' (denomination in words).
Intaglio engraving (recess printing) with multicolor offset lithography for background elements. The fine detail engraving visible in both the decorative patterns and portrait work, combined with the crisp line patterns and intricate geometric designs, is consistent with traditional currency production by a British security printer, likely De La Rue or Bradbury Wilkinson, who produced Seychelles currency during this period. Multiple color printing layers create the complex color interactions observed.
Serial number A045437 observed on this specimen. Signature variety appears to be 'Gurjhard' (or similar transliteration). The red color variant distinguishes Pick P-26 from the brown color variant P-27, issued in the same year. Standard varieties for 1979 Seychelles 100 Rupees include different signature combinations and serial number prefixes (typically A or B series). No overprints or commemorative variations noted on this example.
