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Auction: 24400 - World Banknotes - e-Auction
Lot: 519A

Government of India, 100 Rupees, Lahore, 11th July 1919, serial number FD/40 75788,
A historic artefact from the Green Issues Series: When tradition, resilience, and regional heritage converge.

The British Indian Uniface Underprint series of banknotes, introduced in 1867, represents an era where practicality met sophistication. These "Green Issues," with their unmistakable vibrant green, were designed to withstand the challenging climate of the Indian subcontinent and to combat counterfeiting. This Lahore’s 100 Rupees note, issued on the 11th July 1919, with the serial number FD/40 75788, is a prime example of this resilient and culturally significant series.

Lahore, a city steeped in history and known for its cultural and architectural richness, was an influential center in British India, making this note particularly meaningful. The Green Issues, printed on durable moulded paper, combined aesthetic beauty with practical security features like complex watermarks and distinctive underprints. These features not only enhanced the note’s longevity but also underscored the intricate design that defined the British Indian banknotes of the era.

A unique attribute of this series was its commitment to regional diversity, highlighted by the inclusion of four language panels tailored to each Circle of Issue. This 100 Rupees note from Lahore captures the essence of the region's heritage, with language panels and cultural nuances that reflect Lahore’s significant role within British India.

Issued under strict regional encashment policies, these notes were technically meant to be used only within their designated currency circles. However, their acceptance extended beyond these boundaries, showcasing their widespread utility and recognition across British India. Lahore’s Green Issue notes thus symbolise a complex yet practical approach to currency at a time when security and cultural representation were paramount.
(Pick A17l, BNB 123l4), pinholes, internal tears, otherwise fine, rare

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Sold for
£6,500