10 dollars 1986 specimen
Market Prices
About This Note
This is a 1986 Solomon Islands 10 Dollar specimen note in uncirculated condition, issued by the Central Bank of Solomon Islands. The note features a distinctive pink/mauve color scheme on the obverse with the national coat of arms prominently displayed, while the reverse depicts a woman in traditional dress (the 'Weaver'), reflecting the cultural heritage of the Solomon Islands. As a specimen note with red diagonal overprint and serial number prefix B000000, this piece represents an important part of the nation's numismatic history during the mid-1980s, with sharp printing quality and no circulation wear evident.
Common. The eBay market data shows consistent pricing in the $3-$20 range for UNC specimens, with most sales clustering around $4-$10 USD. This specimen note, while not in circulation, was produced in standard quantities typical of presentation/bank distribution pieces. The 1986 issue is not known to have had a restricted print run or been subject to recall. Specimen notes of this type are regularly available in the secondary market.
This 1986 specimen note was issued during a formative period for the Solomon Islands' monetary independence, following the nation's path toward economic self-determination in the 1980s. The imagery—featuring the national coat of arms with its eagle emblem and the depiction of a traditional weaver—reflects the Solomon Islands' cultural identity and emphasis on indigenous heritage during this post-colonial era. The 'To Lead Is to Serve' motto visible on the obverse underscores the civic values promoted by the Central Bank during this period of nation-building.
The obverse features the coat of arms of Solomon Islands positioned in the center-right, incorporating an eagle emblem above a shield with geometric patterns representing national symbolism. Two signature lines for the Governor and Director of the Central Bank appear below the arms. The reverse showcases a woman wearing traditional Solomon Islands dress and jewelry, identified as 'the Weaver,' positioned in the right-center area, reflecting the importance of traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Both sides feature ornamental circular medallions with tribal-inspired geometric designs on the left portion. An eagle or parrot emblem appears in the upper right corner of the reverse. The overall design employs fine engraved line work with cross-hatching for security purposes.
FRONT: 'Solomon Islands' (country name); 'This Note Is Legal Tender For Ten Dollars' (legal tender declaration); 'Ten Dollars' (denomination); 'Specimen' (red diagonal overprint indicating specimen status); 'Control Bank of Solomon Islands' (issuing authority); 'Governor' and 'Director' (signature line labels); '10' (denomination numerals); 'B000000' (specimen serial number); 'To Lead Is to Serve' (national motto). BACK: 'Solomon Islands' (country name); 'For Specimen' (red diagonal overprint); 'Specimen' (additional overprint); 'Ten Dollars' (denomination); '10' (denomination numerals).
Intaglio engraving (recess printing), as evidenced by the fine line work, intricate cross-hatching patterns, and detailed security printing throughout both sides. The printer is identified as TDLR (Thomas De La Rue) in PMG records for the P-15s variant. This security printing technique was standard for Commonwealth banknotes of this era and provides multiple anti-counterfeiting safeguards through the depth and precision of the engraved lines.
This note is cataloged as P-15s (the specimen variety of Pick 15), printed by TDLR (Thomas De La Rue). PMG records indicate three variants exist for this Pick number: P-15a (regular issue), P-15a* (replacement notes with Y/1 prefix), and P-15s (specimen, as presented here). The specimen designation is confirmed by the red 'SPECIMEN' overprint and serial number format 'B000000', which is standard for presentation specimens. This particular note represents the specimen variant specifically authorized for distribution to banks and collectors rather than general circulation.
