50 cents 1979

Common. This note was part of a regular issue with a substantial print run spanning 1974-1984 (per catalog references), with multiple documented serial number prefixes (D/3-D/5 for regular issues, Z/1 for replacements). Recent eBay market data shows UNC examples selling in the $4-$7 range (2015-2022), well below typical rare note thresholds, indicating robust supply in the collector market.

This note was issued during the presidency of Siaka Stevens (1967-1985), a pivotal period in Sierra Leone's post-independence development. The obverse prominently features Stevens in traditional attire, symbolizing national identity and continuity, while the reverse depicts the modern Bank of Sierra Leone headquarters in Freetown, representing the nation's financial institutional development and modernization efforts during this era.

The obverse features a portrait of President Siaka Stevens positioned in profile facing left, wearing a traditional cap that reflects Sierra Leone's cultural heritage. The note employs a multicolor underprint with dominant browns and tans as base colors, complemented by pink hibiscus flowers illustrated on the right side. Ornate decorative geometric border patterns frame both sides of the note, with the Bank of Sierra Leone seal and coat of arms positioned at the upper left. The reverse displays a detailed architectural rendering of the Bank of Sierra Leone's modern headquarters building in Freetown, characterized by horizontal banding and multiple stories, set within a landscape featuring surrounding trees and structures. Both sides incorporate fine decorative vegetation designs and geometric patterns along the borders.

Front Side: 'BANK OF SIERRA LEONE' (issuing authority), 'PROMISE TO PAY ON DEMAND THE SUM OF' (legal tender declaration), 'FIFTY CENTS' (denomination in words), '50' (denomination in numerals), 'GOVERNOR,' 'DEPUTY GOVERNOR,' 'DIRECTORS' (signatory titles), 'D/5 952219' (serial number - top right), 'D 952219' (serial number - bottom left). Back Side: 'BANK OF SIERRA LEONE' (issuing authority), 'FIFTY CENTS' (denomination in words), '50' (denomination in numerals, appears three times).

Intaglio printing (letterpress/engraving) executed by Thomas de la Rue, London, evidenced by the fine line work visible throughout the portrait, architectural details, and decorative border elements. The security printing includes dual serial number placement (top right and bottom left), precision alignment of multicolor underprint elements, and intricate geometric patterns characteristic of de la Rue's high-security currency production standards.

This specimen is identified as Pick P-4b based on catalog standards. The serial number prefix 'D/5' places this within the regular issue range (D/3-D/5 prefixes documented for circulation notes). The PMG population data indicates seven recognized varieties for this base Pick number (P-4CS2, P-4b, P-4c, P-4cs, P-4e, P-4e*, P-4s), suggesting variations in signature combinations, security features, or plate configurations. The specific signatures visible on this note (though not clearly legible in the visual analysis) would further define its exact variety classification.