1965 St. Kitts 1 Dollar Banknote – De La Rue Print with Island Overprint “K”

Issued by the East Caribbean Currency Authority, this 1965 $1 banknote represents a key chapter in the monetary unification of the Eastern Caribbean. Printed by Thomas De La Rue Ltd., it features the distinctive “K” overprint, denoting its circulation in St. Kitts — one of several island-specific variants in the ECCA’s first regional series.

This note blends colonial elegance with regional symbolism, showcasing Queen Elizabeth II alongside a stylized map of the Eastern Caribbean. It’s a foundational piece for collectors of British Commonwealth and Caribbean currency.

Key Features & Historical Significance
Issuer: East Caribbean Currency Authority

Denomination: 1 Dollar

Year of Issue: 1965 (ND – no printed date)

Pick Number: P-13k

Island Overprint: “K” for St. Kitts

Printer: Thomas De La Rue & Co., London

Size: Approx. 145 × 69 mm

Material: Paper with intaglio and lithographic printing

Design Highlights
Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II at right, with a flying fish at centre and a map of the Eastern Caribbean at left. The “K” overprint appears in black, identifying the note for St. Kitts.

Reverse: A scenic coastline with rocks and trees, symbolizing the natural beauty of the region.

Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II, visible when held to light.

Security Features: Guilloché patterns, watermark, and serial number variation.

Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1965 St. Kitts $1 note offers:

Island-specific rarity, with the “K” overprint exclusive to St. Kitts

Colonial and regional symbolism, bridging monarchy and Caribbean unity

De La Rue craftsmanship, known for precision and durability

Collector appeal, especially in high grades or with crisp overprint

Own a piece of Eastern Caribbean history with this island-marked $1 note. The 1965 St. Kitts edition is more than currency — it’s a symbol of regional identity and post-colonial transition.