1 pound 1975

Common. eBay market data shows consistent sales in the $1.31–$6.27 range for VF-condition examples from 2013–2024, with even premium grades (PMG 67, UNC) averaging $15–$29.90. Catalog value for VF condition is assessed at $3 USD (2019). The denomination was part of a regular issue with an extended circulation period (1972–1978), indicating substantial print run. Market frequency and low pricing typical of abundant post-1970s African currency confirms common classification.

Issued during Sudan's post-independence period (1972–1978 date range per catalog), this note reflects the Bank of Sudan's commitment to showcasing national identity through both modern institutional imagery and ancient Nubian heritage. The obverse depicts the Bank of Sudan headquarters in Khartoum, symbolizing the nation's economic authority, while the reverse honors Sudan's pre-Islamic Nubian past through the Kiosk of Naqa and references to King Taharqa, whose artifacts (such as the statuette referenced in the Louvre) underscore Sudan's archaeological significance. This dual focus—contemporary state power and ancient civilization—was a deliberate design choice during a period of national consolidation.

The obverse features the neoclassical Bank of Sudan building prominently centered, characterized by columned facade, multiple stories, and ornate balustrades—a symbol of Sudan's modern financial institution. Ornamental floral motifs in white occupy the left border, while denomination numerals '1' appear in decorative circular frames at bottom corners. The reverse displays the Kiosk of Naqa (also called Naga), an ancient Nubian structure featuring multiple columns, arches, and fortification-style architecture dating to the Kushite kingdom period. A winged Egyptian-Nubian deity figure (likely representing protective divinity in pharaonic/Nubian tradition) appears in profile on the right side, with golden-yellow floral ornamentation on the left. Both sides employ cream and beige base tones with subtle green, blue, and golden accents. The note includes the Bank of Sudan coat of arms (secretary bird) as watermark and features fine-line guilloche patterns and detailed engraving throughout as security measures.

OBVERSE: Arabic text reading 'بنك السودان' (Bank of Sudan) in decorative panel at top; date '15 يناير 1975' (15 January 1975); serial number 'C 120 561798'; additional Arabic inscriptions present though partially unclear in visual analysis. REVERSE: English text reading 'BANK OF SUDAN' and 'ONE SUDANESE POUND' at top; printer attribution 'DE LA RUE' (De la Rue, London); denomination numeral '1' in decorative frames at bottom corners on both sides.

Intaglio (engraved) printing by De la Rue, London, the noted security printer. The visual analysis confirms hallmark De la Rue security features including fine-line background patterns, microprint-style designs, ornamental guilloche borders, and intricate engraved detail work. Dual-color printing on multicolor underprint using cream/beige primary stock with green, blue, yellow, and navy accents applied through multiple passes.

This specific note is dated 15 January 1975 with serial number C 120 561798. The Pick P-13b designation indicates this is the 'b' variety of the 1 Pound issue, with known varieties existing for different date ranges and signature combinations within the 1972–1978 issuance period. The 'C' series prefix on the serial number may indicate a specific printing batch. Collectors should note that date and signature varieties exist for this Pick number; the January 1975 date places this note within the mid-period of the series. No overprints or special varieties are evident in the visual analysis.