

This Swedish 1 krona note from 1918 (Pick-32e) displays the classic ornate design characteristic of early 20th-century Swedish currency, featuring the royal coat of arms prominently at top center with supporting lions and crowned shield. The note exhibits a warm, aged patina with visible creasing and foxing consistent with VF (Very Fine) condition, showing circulation wear while maintaining good structural integrity and legibility of the primary design elements.
Common. The 1914-1940 series was issued in substantial quantities to rebuild circulation after the 43-year gap since 1875. eBay market data shows VF examples selling for $7.50-$12.50 in recent decades, with catalog values for VF at approximately $7.50-$15, well below the threshold that would indicate rarity. While the re-introduction makes these historically significant, they are not scarce in numismatic markets.
Issued during World War I by Sveriges Riksbank, this 1 krona note represents a re-introduction of the denomination after 43 years (last issued in 1875), necessitated by wartime currency demands. The prominence of the Swedish royal coat of arms and the legal tender text referencing the 1873 currency law underscore Sweden's maintained monetary stability and royal authority during the global conflict, despite the nation's official neutrality.
The note features a symmetrical, highly ornate design typical of Swedish classical banknote engraving. The focal point is the Swedish royal coat of arms at top center, depicting the three lions of Sweden within a crowned shield, flanked by heraldic supporters. Elaborate serpentine or rope-like border patterns frame all edges of the note, with intricate scrollwork and decorative flourishes distributed throughout. Two circular heraldic medallions appear on the left and right sides containing additional symbolic imagery. The denomination '1' is prominently displayed in an oval cartouche near the bottom center. The entire composition emphasizes classical heraldic authority and complex anti-counterfeiting design.
FRONT: 'Sveriges Riksbank' (Sweden's Central Bank); 'EN Krona' (One Crown); 'intill och anfordran denna sedel å' (on demand this note); 'med giltomygt enlgt lagen om rifets mynt av den 30 maj 1873' (with validity according to the law on the realm's currency of May 30, 1873); Serial number 'Dd.144516'; Year '1918'; Signatures 'Ahlstn' (left) and 'O.Billinder' (right); 'EX KRONA' (One Crown). BACK: Reverse side contains mirrored text and similar inscriptions as front, including 'Sveriges Riksbank' and denomination markers, though reverse text appears significantly degraded in the images provided.
Intaglio engraving (copperplate printing), the standard security printing method for Swedish banknotes of this era. The fine line patterns, intricate border work, and detailed decorative elements are characteristic of intaglio production. The note was produced by the Swedish state printing authority under contract, as was standard practice for Sveriges Riksbank note production during this period.
This note is identified as Pick-32e, one of at least two cataloged variants (32b and 32e documented in PMG records). The specific variety designation (32e) likely reflects differences in signatures, serial number prefixes, or printing characteristics from earlier variant 32b. The observed signatures 'Ahlstn' and 'O.Billinder' on this example should be verified against the specific variety catalog to confirm correct attribution to the 32e designation.