1977 Seychelles 50 Rupee Specimen Banknote Pick #21s PMG68 EPQ | Republic of Seychelles | GoldSilverJapan
basic information
This banknote is a 50 Rupees Specimen note issued by the Republic of Seychelles as part of the 1977 series. Its catalog number is Pick #21s, and it has received a high rating of 68 Superb Gem Uncirculated EPQ (Exceptional Paper Quality) from the PMG. Printed using high-quality British banknote manufacturing techniques, it is an official sample note featuring serial number "A/1 000000", a red Specimen overprint, punch holes, and a Parrot's Head watermark. Known in English as "Seychelles 50 Rupees Specimen Pick 21s PMG68 EPQ," it is highly sought after by banknote collectors worldwide.
History and background of publication
The 1977 series is one of the earliest banknote series representing the Republic of Seychelles after its independence. SPECIMEN banknotes were produced in small quantities as samples for banks, central banks, printing companies, and financial institutions, and were not intended for market circulation. Therefore, unlike regular circulation banknotes, they feature SPECIMEN overprints and punch holes, making them even more valuable and rare in the collector market than standard banknotes.
Design Features
The obverse features a portrait of James Mancham, the first president of the Republic of Seychelles, and incorporates designs symbolizing Seychelles' rich natural environment, including tropical fish and plants. The reverse depicts fishermen and a coastal landscape, representing the lifestyle, culture, and marine resources unique to this beautiful Indian Ocean island nation. The entire banknote features delicate guilloché patterns and high-definition printing, and a vibrant red SPECIMEN overprint indicates that it is an official sample banknote.
Specifications, collectible value, and market value
PMG68 EPQ is an extremely high grade indicating near-perfect preservation, meaning the paper quality, color reproduction, printing, and originality are exceptionally good. This particular banknote is extremely rare, with only two 68 EPQ notes in the PMG Population Report, and zero even higher grade notes (Top Pop). For this reason, it is especially highly valued by collectors of Seychelles, African, Commonwealth, and Specimen banknotes.
Check the condition and authenticity of the listed items.
The item shown is PMG68 Superb Gem Uncirculated EPQ authenticated, and is in excellent condition in terms of paper quality, color, and printing. The red SPECIMEN overprint, punch holes, serial number "A/1 000000", Parrot's Head watermark, and original PMG holder are all important points that confirm the authenticity of this banknote. The EPQ designation also guarantees that the original paper quality has been preserved without any cleaning or restoration treatment.
FAQ
Q. Was this banknote ever put into circulation?
A. No. These are official SPECIMENs (sample vouchers) produced for banks and financial institutions.
Q. What is the pickup number?
A. Pick #21s.
Q. What grade is it?
A. This is a PMG68 Superb Gem Uncirculated EPQ.
Q. Who is the person on the surface?
A. This is James Mancham, the first president of the Republic of Seychelles.
Q. Is this banknote rare?
A. Yes. According to the PMG Population Report, there are only two 68 EPQ notes, and no higher grades exist, making it an extremely rare SPECIMEN banknote known as Top Pop.
