A Relic of the Pacific Theater: WWII Military Overprint

Acquire a major piece of World War II numismatic history with this 1945 100 Rupees note. Following the liberation of Burma from Japanese occupation, the British Military Administration (BMA) utilized existing Reserve Bank of India plates to quickly re-establish a stable local economy. These notes are distinguished by their bold red overprints, marking them for exclusive use in the Burmese territory.

Historical & Design Highlights:

• Obverse (Front): Features a regal portrait of King George VI in his coronation robes. The center carries the critical red overprint: "MILITARY ADMINISTRATION OF BURMA / LEGAL TENDER IN BURMA ONLY." * Reverse (Back): Showcases a powerful illustration of a Tiger's head in the center, flanked by the denomination in multiple languages including Burmese, Hindi, and Bengali.

• Signatory: Hand-signed in the plate by C.D. Deshmukh, the first Indian Governor of the Reserve Bank of India.

• Issue Place: Overprinted on the India #20 Calcutta issue.

Item Details:

• Issuer: British Military Administration (Burma)

• Denomination: 100 Rupees

• Date: ND (1945)

• Pick Number: P-29b

• Serial Number: B/47 798576

• Grading: PMG 25 Very Fine

• Condition Notes: PMG has noted "Splits, Annotations" on the reverse of the holder. These are characteristic of high-denomination notes that saw actual field use during the chaotic final months of the war in Southeast Asia.

Collector's Perspective: The 100 Rupee note was a massive sum in 1945, often used for military payroll or large-scale reconstruction supplies. Because of their high value, most were redeemed and destroyed after the war. Finding an authentic BMA overprint in a solid Very Fine grade is a rare opportunity for the serious specialist.