1955 Bank of England 10 Shillings Note – Britannia in Post-War Britain
Explore the elegance of pre-decimal British currency with the 1955 Ten Shillings banknote (EPM B271 / Pick 368c), signed by Chief Cashier L.K. O’Brien. With its rich red-brown palette and classical Britannia motif, this note reflects the resilience and tradition of mid-20th century Britain.
🕰️ Historical Context
Issued during a period of post-war recovery and national pride, this Series A note was printed at St Luke’s Works, London. It features Britannia, the enduring symbol of British strength and unity, seated with trident and shield. The note circulated widely until the early 1960s, when portrait designs of Queen Elizabeth II began to replace classical imagery.
📐 Key Features & Specifications
Attribute Details
Pick Number P-368c / EPM B271
Denomination Ten Shillings (10/-)
Material Paper
Issuing Authority Bank of England
Size 138 × 78 mm
Printer Bank of England, St Luke’s Works
Issue Date 21 November 1955
Cashier’s Signature L.K. O’Brien
Watermark Minerva
Series A – Britannia with Thread
🎨 Design Elements
Front: Features Britannia seated, flanked by denomination tablets and ornate scrollwork.
Back: Plain reverse, typical of early Bank of England notes.
Lettering: Includes the classic promise: “I promise to pay the bearer on demand the sum of ten shillings.”
🔐 Security Features
Watermark: Classical figure of Minerva, Roman goddess of wisdom
Security Thread: Embedded vertical thread for anti-counterfeit protection
Serial Number: Printed twice for verification
✨ Collector’s & Gift Appeal
This note is ideal for:
Pre-decimal collectors – A cornerstone of Britain’s shilling-era currency
Historical enthusiasts – A tangible link to post-war British life
Gift seekers – Perfect for those born in 1955 or fans of vintage design
Numismatic investors – Especially desirable in UNC or replacement prefix condition
💡 Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1955 Ten Shillings note is more than currency—it’s a symbol of British heritage, craftsmanship, and economic history. With its bold design and historical significance, it remains one of the most iconic pre-decimal notes in circulation.
