1998 Cyprus £10 Banknote (P-62b): A Portrait of National Identity Before the Euro
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1998 Cyprus £10 Banknote (P-62b): A Portrait of National Identity Before the Euro
The 1998 Ten Cypriot Pounds banknote, catalogued as Pick #62b, stands as a vivid testament to Cyprus’s cultural heritage and monetary sovereignty in the final decade before its transition to the euro. Issued by the Central Bank of Cyprus, this note circulated during a period of economic modernization and growing European integration.
Obverse Design: Artemis and the Echo of Antiquity
The obverse features a bust of Artemis, the ancient Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and protector of young women. Her presence on the note reflects Cyprus’s deep-rooted Hellenic legacy and the island’s reverence for classical mythology.
Watermark: Bust of Aphrodite, another iconic figure tied to Cyprus’s mythological identity
Signatures: Afxentis Afxentiou (Manager)
Printer: De La Rue, London
Serial Range: U 000001 to AD 1000000
Reverse Design: Biodiversity in Full Bloom
The reverse celebrates Cyprus’s rich natural environment, showcasing:
Cyprus warbler, Cyprus mouflon, green turtle, and Paphos Blue butterfly
Native flora including cyclamens and tulips This imagery underscores the island’s ecological uniqueness and its commitment to conservation.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 10 Cypriot Pounds (CYP) |
| Year of Issue | 1998 |
| Catalog Reference | P-62b (Standard Catalog of World Paper Money) |
| Dimensions | 157 × 76 mm |
| Language | Greek and English |
| Currency System | Decimalized Pound (1983–2007) |
| Demonetized | Yes (after euro adoption in 2008) |
Role in the Cypriot Currency System
The Cypriot Pound (CYP) was the official currency from 1879 until 2007, with the decimalized version introduced in 1983. The 1998 £10 note was part of the final series before Cyprus adopted the euro in 2008, marking the end of an era in national currency design. This banknote served as a mid-range denomination, widely used for everyday transactions, and was integral to the country’s pre-euro monetary identity.
Collector Insights
Condition matters: UNC examples of P-62b are increasingly sought after, especially with crisp print and intact security features
Serial number U 504146 places this note in the early segment of the 1998 issue, adding appeal for serial collectors
Cultural crossover: The blend of mythology and biodiversity makes this note a standout for thematic collectors interested in flora, fauna, and classical motifs
Legacy and Educational Value
For numismatists and educators, the 1998 £10 note offers a rich narrative: it bridges ancient symbolism, modern conservation, and monetary transition. It’s a prime example of how currency can reflect national identity while serving practical economic functions.
