1968 National Commercial Bank of Scotland £1 Banknote – Bridges Design | P#274a
This 1968 £1 banknote from the National Commercial Bank of Scotland is a striking example of mid-20th century Scottish currency. Issued just before the bank’s merger into the Royal Bank of Scotland, it captures a unique moment in the nation’s financial history. The note features the iconic Forth Road and Railway Bridges—symbols of Scottish engineering and connectivity.
Printed by Bradbury Wilkinson & Co., this note circulated widely across Scotland in the years leading up to decimalisation in 1971. Its bold design and historical context make it a prized addition for collectors of British and regional banknotes.
Key Specifications
Attribute Details
Issuer National Commercial Bank of Scotland
Denomination One Pound (£1)
Year of Issue 1968
Pick Number P#274a (Standard Catalog of World Paper Money)
Dimensions Approx. 136 × 67 mm
Material Paper, intaglio printed
Watermark Arms of the Bank
Printer Bradbury Wilkinson & Co.
Design Overview
Obverse: Green on multicolour underprint featuring the Forth Road and Railway Bridges, with the bank’s arms at centre.
Reverse: Arms at upper left, shield at centre, and a sailing ship at upper right.
Security Features: Watermark, serial number variation, and electronic sorting lines.
Collector Appeal
Transitional Issue: Released just before the bank’s merger, marking the end of an era.
Engineering Tribute: Celebrates Scotland’s iconic bridges—rare in banknote design.
Pre-Decimal Legacy: A key piece from the pre-1971 currency system.
Catalogued Rarity: Listed as P#274a, aiding identification and valuation.
This 1968 £1 note is a standout for collectors of Scottish banknotes, especially those focused on transitional issues and regional symbolism. Its bold bridge imagery and historical significance make it a compelling piece for any numismatic collection.
