1962 Ceylon 2 Rupees Banknote – S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike Portrait | P#62a | Numista N#208012

This 1962 2 Rupees banknote from the Central Bank of Ceylon is a classic pre‑republic issue, printed by Bradbury Wilkinson & Co. Featuring the portrait of Prime Minister Solomon W.R.D. Bandaranaike on the front and a pavilion scene on the reverse, the design reflects Ceylon’s political leadership and cultural heritage during the post‑independence era.

Issued under the Central Bank of Ceylon, this note is part of the transitional series that bridged colonial and republican currency. It remains a sought‑after collectible for enthusiasts of South Asian and Commonwealth banknotes.


Key Specifications

Attribute Details
Issuer Central Bank of Ceylon
Denomination Two Rupees (Rs.2)
Year of Issue 1962
Pick Number P#62a (Standard Catalog of World Paper Money)
Numista Reference N#208012
Dimensions Approx. 114 × 59 mm
Material Paper, intaglio printed
Watermark Chinze head
Printer Bradbury Wilkinson & Co.
Design Series 1962–65 Issue



Design Overview

Obverse: Portrait of Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike at right; denomination in Sinhala, Tamil, and English.

Reverse: Pavilion scene at left centre, with floral and geometric motifs.

Security Features: Watermark of Chinze head, serial number variation, and detailed engraving.


Collector Appeal

Political Portrait: One of the few Ceylonese notes to feature a Prime Minister.

Historic Transitional Issue: Pre‑republic currency before Sri Lanka’s renaming in 1972.

Cultural Symbolism: Pavilion imagery reflects national heritage.

Catalogued Reference: Listed as P#62a and Numista N#208012, aiding identification and valuation.

Summary

This 1962 Ceylon 2 Rupees note is a must‑have for collectors of Asian currency, Commonwealth issues, and transitional banknotes. Its portrait of Prime Minister Bandaranaike and pavilion reverse design make it a standout addition to any numismatic collection.