Mediterranean Majesty: The 1967 Malta One Pound

Acquire a premier specimen of Maltese currency history. Issued by the Central Bank of Malta following the Central Bank of Malta Act of 1967, this note represents the transitional period of Malta's financial sovereignty. It features the iconic "Young Head" portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, rendered with the masterful precision of Bradbury, Wilkinson & Co.

Historic & Design Highlights:

• Obverse (Front): Features a graceful portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the right, wearing the Order of the Garter. The center is dominated by the George Cross, Malta's highest civilian award for gallantry, set against a vibrant pink and green guilloche pattern.

• Reverse (Back): Showcases a panoramic engraving of Grand Harbour, Valletta. The detailed scene captures the industrial and maritime essence of the historic Mediterranean port, including the dry docks and fortifications.

• Low Serial Number: This particular note carries a desirable low serial number: A/1 000406, indicating it was among the first batch of notes printed for this series.

• Signatory: Features the printed signature of P.L. Hogg, the first Governor of the Central Bank of Malta.

• Exceptional Paper Quality (EPQ): The EPQ designation by PMG confirms the note is in its original, unadulterated state, retaining its natural luster and embossed texture.

Item Details:

• Issuer: Central Bank of Malta.

• Denomination: One Pound (£1).

• Date: 1967 (Issued circa 1969).

• Pick Number: P-29a.

• Serial Number: A/1 000406.

• Grading: PMG 65 Gem Uncirculated EPQ.

Collector's Perspective: Malta notes from the 1960s are notoriously difficult to find in Gem condition due to the high humidity of the island region, which often led to foxing or paper softening. Finding an A/1 prefix note with a sub-500 serial number in a 65 EPQ holder makes this an institutional-grade piece for any serious Commonwealth or Queen Elizabeth II collection.