50 rupees 1968

Common. While this note is historically significant as Seychelles' first government currency issue, the 1968-1973 series was issued in substantial quantities for circulation. The catalog reference data shows eBay pricing that reflects moderate collector value ($425 VF, $1,650 UNC as of 2019), but the existence of multiple signature varieties and the regular circulation of these notes indicate a healthy supply in the market. The AU condition grade observed here is desirable but not exceptionally scarce. The "SEX note" nickname has generated some collector interest, but this has not substantially restricted availability.

Issued on the 1st of January 1968, this note marks Seychelles' transition to independent currency following the territory's path toward autonomy. The prominent depiction of Queen Elizabeth II reflects Seychelles' status as a Commonwealth realm at the time, while the schooner imagery emphasizes the nation's identity as an island archipelago with deep maritime and trading traditions. The 1968-1973 series represents a significant numismatic moment, as these early Government of Seychelles notes established the visual and security standards for the young nation's monetary system.

The obverse features a formal oval portrait of Queen Elizabeth II positioned at the right, depicted in three-quarter profile wearing formal regalia with visible ribbon or sash, consistent with Commonwealth currency portraiture standards of the era. The left side depicts a three-masted schooner (traditional sailing vessel) on water with tropical coastal landscape featuring palm vegetation and hills in the background, symbolizing Seychelles' maritime character and island geography. Ornamental border designs with decorative corner elements frame the composition. The reverse displays a large oval/circular space (likely reserved for watermark emphasis) on the right side, with elaborate botanical motifs—reportedly including a baobab or similar tree design—on the left. The reverse incorporates a distinctive multicolored wavy security border pattern in green, red/pink, and blue, with large denomination numerals (50) prominently displayed centrally. Fine-line engraving with intricate cross-hatching throughout provides anti-counterfeiting measures characteristic of 1960s security standards.

Front Side: 'GOVERNMENT OF SEYCHELLES' (issuing authority); '50' (denomination in upper corners); 'FIFTY RUPEES' (denomination spelled out); '1ST JANUARY, 1968.' (official issue date); 'H.S. Naman-Sacher' (signature of authorized official); 'GOVERNOR' (title of signatory); Serial number 'A 001756' (individual note identifier). Back Side: 'GOVERNMENT OF SEYCHELLES' (issuing authority, top); 'FIFTY RUPEES' (denomination); '50' (denomination numeral, repeated in security pattern). All inscriptions are in English, reflecting the English colonial heritage and official language of Seychelles.

Intaglio (engraved) printing on multicolor underprint, utilizing multiple color plates. The visual analysis indicates fine-line engraving, detailed cross-hatching patterns, and complex ornamental designs typical of high-security currency production. The multicolored security elements on the reverse suggest sequential printing or multi-plate color application. While the specific security printer for this Pick number is not definitively documented in standard references, the quality and technique are consistent with De La Rue or similar Commonwealth currency printers active in the late 1960s.

This specific note exhibits the signature of H.S. Naman-Sacher as Governor, representing one of the signature varieties known for this Pick number. The serial number A 001756 suggests an early printing from the first series (A prefix). The Pick catalog reference (P-17a) indicates this is the primary variety of the 1968 50 Rupees issue. Multiple signature varieties are documented for this denomination across the 1968-1973 period, and collectors should note variations in signatory officials. No overprints, emergency markings, or other distinguishing features are apparent on the examined note.