1982 Pakistan 1 Rupee Banknote – NP‑26b / P‑26b
A Late‑Zia‑Era Issue Featuring the Badshahi Mosque & Classic Pakistani Floral Design
The 1982 Pakistan 1 Rupee banknote (Pick 26b) belongs to the long‑running 1978–1984 “One Rupee” series, issued by the Government of Pakistan during the presidency of Muhammad Zia‑ul‑Haq. This series is known for its elegant floral motifs, clean layout, and the iconic depiction of the Badshahi Mosque — one of the most celebrated architectural landmarks of Lahore.
The NP‑26b subtype is identified by its 1982 date and the signature variety used during that year. As one of the final paper 1‑rupee notes before the denomination was gradually replaced by coins, it holds strong appeal for collectors of South Asian currency.
Key Features & Catalogue Details
Attribute Details
Country Pakistan
Issuer Government of Pakistan
Denomination 1 Rupee
Year of Issue 1982
Pick Number P‑26b / NP‑26b
Series 1978–1984 Issue
Material Paper
Dimensions 94 × 60 mm
Watermark Crescent moon & star
Printer Pakistan Security Printing Corporation
Theme National architecture & floral motifs
Design Overview
Obverse – Floral Motifs & National Emblem
Features traditional Pakistani floral ornamentation in a clean, symmetrical layout.
Displays the crescent and star, the national emblem of Pakistan.
Text appears in Urdu, with “Government of Pakistan” prominently printed.
Soft brown‑green colour palette typical of early‑1980s low‑denomination notes.
This side reflects the understated elegance of Pakistan’s small‑value currency during the Zia era.
Reverse – Badshahi Mosque, Lahore
Depicts the Badshahi Mosque, one of the largest and most historically significant mosques in South Asia.
The architectural detail highlights Mughal grandeur and Pakistan’s cultural heritage.
Clean, balanced composition with Urdu inscriptions.
This reverse design is one of the most admired in Pakistan’s pre‑1990s banknote series.
Historical Context
The 1982 1‑rupee note was issued during a period of economic tightening and gradual currency reform. By the mid‑1980s, inflation and rising production costs led to the phasing out of the 1‑rupee note in favour of coins, making these late‑issue notes the final chapter of Pakistan’s smallest paper denomination.
Collectors value the NP‑26b for:
Its clear date and signature variety
The iconic Badshahi Mosque reverse
Its place in the final era of 1‑rupee paper notes
Its affordability and accessibility
Its classic early‑1980s design aesthetic
