Incredibly Rare Malta Notes Unpriced in the Catalogue
The island of Malta has been inhabited since about 5200 BC when settlers came over from Sicily. It was under French rule from 1798-1800, and then was taken over by the British. It remained British until 1964 when it gained its independence.
The first bank that opened after the British took over, was the Anglo-Maltese Bank in 1809. The founders shortly thereafter issued banknotes, but they were denominated in Scudi. In 1888 the Government declared that the notes be denominated in Pounds Sterling or British Pounds and so this note for £50 Sterling when it was issued.
This beautiful Banco Anglo Maltese £50 was issued around 1888. The note is printed in black ink on a very fine crinkly type paper, about the size of the old White Bank of England notes. For the first time, the notes carried a logo or picture rendition, this is Saint George slaying the Dragon. The note is listed in Pick, the World Banknote Catalogue, (PS116) as RARE and unpriced.