1990 Hong Kong 10 Dollar Banknote (HSBC) – Maritime Majesty and Colonial Legacy
The 1990 Hong Kong 10 Dollar banknote (Pick 191c, Numista #203841) issued by HSBC is a richly detailed note that captures the essence of Hong Kong’s colonial-era banking prestige and maritime heritage. With its deep green palette, iconic bronze lion statues, and traditional sampan imagery, this note reflects the city’s identity as a global port and financial hub.
Historical Context
Part of the 1985–1992 HSBC banknote series, this note was issued during a period of economic expansion and cultural complexity in pre-handover Hong Kong. It represents the final generation of paper $10 notes before the introduction of polymer and the shift toward standardized government-issued designs. Withdrawn in 1992, it remains a popular collectible for those drawn to Hong Kong’s banking history and architectural symbolism.
Key Specifications
Feature Details
Pick Number P-191c
Numista Reference #203841
Denomination 10 Hong Kong Dollars
Material Paper
Issuing Bank The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC)
Size 139 × 69 mm
Printer Thomas De La Rue & Co., London
Watermark HSBC Coat of Arms
Security Thread Embedded metallic thread
Date of Issue 1990
Demonetized Withdrawn in 1992
Design Elements
Obverse (Front):
HSBC Coat of Arms prominently displayed
Text: “The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation”
Serial number printed twice
Denomination (“10 Dollars”) in English and Chinese
Deep green background with watermark window
Reverse (Back):
Bronze lion statues flanking HSBC’s headquarters
Sampan and modern ship in Victoria Harbour
Architectural contrast between tradition and progress
Chinese characters for “Ten Dollars” (拾圓)
Security Features
Watermark: HSBC Coat of Arms
Security Thread: Metallic thread embedded vertically
UV Elements: Select areas fluoresce under ultraviolet light
Collector Appeal
This note is prized for:
Its classic HSBC design and maritime symbolism
Representation of Hong Kong’s colonial banking era
Rich visual contrast between old and new Hong Kong
Its role in the final paper series before polymer transition
Ideal for:
Collectors of Hong Kong banknotes
Fans of maritime and architectural themes
Individuals born in 1990
Investors in withdrawn Asian currency
Why Collect the 1990 HSBC 10 Dollar Note?
This banknote is more than a financial instrument—it’s a visual archive of Hong Kong’s identity before the handover. From the regal lion guardians to the bustling harbour scene, it reflects the city’s dual legacy of tradition and transformation. Whether for display, education, or investment, it remains a compelling piece of East Asian numismatic history.
