1955 Cyprus • British Administration

250 Mils | Pick #33a | PMG 35 Choice Very Fine

Key Note Highlights:
  • First date of issue: 1st June 1955 from the iconic decimalization series.
  • Displays the celebrated youthful portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing the Grand Duchess Vladimir Tiara.
  • Trilingual text in English, Greek, and Turkish, alongside the outline map of the island of Cyprus.

Detailed Visual & Design Breakdown

🔍 Obverse (Front) Design:

Printed in a rich steel-blue frame over a multi-colored geometric guilloche underprint. On the right is a detailed portrait engraving of a young Queen Elizabeth II in formal regalia and tiara. The title reads ISSUED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF CYPRUS across the upper center, with the value stated in three languages: English (250 MILS), Greek (ΔΙΑΚΟΣΙΑ ΠΕΝΤΗΚΟΝΤΑ ΜΙΛΣ), and Turkish (İKİ YÜZ ELLİ MİL). Above the clear watermark crescent is the facsimile signature of the Commissioner of Currency, dated 1ST JUNE 1955. An outline map of Cyprus rests at the lower right, with black serial numbers A/4 213961.

🔍 Reverse (Back) Design:

Rendered entirely in dark steel-blue intaglio lathework. The central arch prominently bears GOVERNMENT OF CYPRUS in a stylised serif font. On the left, a wreath encircles a geometric rosette framing 250 MILS. On the right, a matching laurel wreath displays the traditional British colonial heraldic emblem of Cyprus: two lions passant guardant. The central open semi-circle accommodates the semi-translucent eagle's head watermark area.

Banknote Specifications

Issuing Authority Government of Cyprus (British Administration)
Date of Issue 1st June 1955
Denomination 250 Mils
Catalog Ref Pick #33a
Prefix / Serial # A/4 213961
Watermark Eagle's Head
Printer Bradbury, Wilkinson & Co. (BWC)
Grading Service PMG (Paper Money Guaranty)
Grade 35 Choice Very Fine
Certification # 2277940-028
The banknote pictured is the exact certified piece you will receive. Authenticity and grade are independently guaranteed by PMG.