1 rupee 1962

Common. The 1 rupee denomination from this 1956-1963 series was produced in substantial quantities by the Central Bank of Ceylon to serve as the primary circulating currency. While this specific AU condition example is attractive, the Pick P-56d is not scarce. Serial number data (B 87 211190) indicates mid-range production from the print run. These notes remain readily available in the collector market at modest valuations.

Issued in 1962 by the Central Bank of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), this note reflects the post-independence monetary system during a period of significant institutional development. The prominent lion emblem represents the national coat of arms of Ceylon, while the ornate staircase and temple architecture depicted on the reverse likely commemorates an important historical or religious structure central to Ceylonese heritage. This issue date falls within Ceylon's transition period following independence in 1948, when the Central Bank was establishing its own currency design identity.

The obverse features the coat of arms of Ceylon—a lion figure enclosed within a circular emblem positioned on the left side of the note—alongside a decorative globe design with ornamental framing in the center-right area. The reverse depicts an ornate architectural scene representing what appears to be an ancient temple or significant historical structure, characterized by grand staircase elements and multiple buildings rendered in fine engraving. Both sides are framed by intricate geometric and floral border patterns with ornamental corner motifs featuring cross or flower-like designs. The bilingual text in English and Sinhala script reinforces Ceylon's post-independence identity with both colonial and local language elements.

Front Side: 'ශ්‍රී ලංකා මහ බැංකුව' (Sinhala: Central Bank of Sri Lanka); 'ONE RUPEE' (English); Serial number 'B 87 211190'; Date '1962-1-29' (January 29, 1962); 'බැංකුව' (Sinhala: Bank). Back Side: 'ශ්‍රී ලංකා මහ බැංකුව' (Sinhala: Central Bank of Sri Lanka); 'ONE RUPEE' (English); 'BRADBURY, WILKINSON & CO LTD NEW MALDEN SURREY ENGLAND' (Printer: Bradbury Wilkinson, New Malden, England).

Intaglio engraving (line engraving), as evidenced by the fine detail work, precise geometric patterns, and intricate border designs visible throughout both sides of the note. The printer Bradbury Wilkinson & Co Ltd of New Malden, Surrey, England—a renowned security printer—produced this note using traditional high-security banknote engraving methods characteristic of mid-20th century Central Bank currency production. The sharp, well-defined line work and consistent color registration demonstrate professional security printing standards.

This example is identified as Pick P-56d, indicating it represents one specific variety within the 1956-1963 series. The serial number prefix 'B' and the specific date of January 29, 1962, confirm this is from the 1962 issue period. No significant overprints or signature variations are noted. Standard varieties for this Pick number typically involve different prefix letters and date variations across the production run from 1956-1963.