10 Shillings MLT Banknote (George V Issue) 1939

10 Shillings Pound / Lira (Issued 1939)

The Government of Malta held the authority to issue currency throughout the island during the early twentieth century, functioning as the central monetary institution responsible for maintaining financial stability across the territory. This 1939 banknote represents a period when Malta’s currency system operated under colonial administration, with the Government of Malta serving as the primary issuing body for all circulating denominations. The production of this 10 Shillings note in 1939 reflects the economic conditions and governance structures of Malta during the final year before the Second World War would reshape the island’s financial landscape. Understanding the issuing authority behind this note provides crucial context for collectors and exchange specialists seeking to authenticate and value Malta’s historical currency.

On the front, the note displays “THE GOVERNMENT OF MALTA” printed in bold capital letters across the top border in white text against a dark blue frame. The central design features an ornate guilloché pattern rendered in light green and cream tones, with elaborate scrollwork and decorative flourishes creating a protective security barrier. A prominent oval portrait of King George V appears in the right portion of the note, engraved in deep blue with careful attention to the King’s profile, showing his distinctive facial features and formal dress. The denomination “TEN SHILLINGS” is clearly presented in a rectangular cartouche at the centre of the note, with “HEREBY DECLARES THIS NOTE TO BE LEGAL TENDER FOR PAYMENTS OF ANY AMOUNT” inscribed above it in smaller capital letters. Serial numbers appear in the top left and bottom right corners—both displaying “2015731”—rendered in black ink with clear, precise typography. The lower portion contains handwritten signatures in black ink, demonstrating the manual authorisation process of the period. The colour palette transitions between soft blue borders, pale cream-green backgrounds, and darker blue engraved elements, creating strong visual hierarchy and security depth.

The reverse of the banknote presents a plain, unprinted surface characteristic of currency design during this era. The paper exhibits a subtle cream colouration with visible texture and minor ageing marks consistent with notes that have circulated for over eighty years. The blank reverse design reflects the security practices and printing economics of 1939, when single-sided elaborate design was the standard for banknotes of this denomination and issuing authority. The plain surface allows the watermark and paper quality to remain the primary security features for authentication purposes.

Turn a 10 Shillings MLT banknote into money with Webuyallcurrency.com, which buys old or withdrawn Maltese Lira banknotes along with a wide range of other foreign currency in a single, hassle-free transaction.

• Indicate the quantity of 10 Shillings Pound / Lira banknotes you want to exchange
• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button
• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Webuyallcurrency.com is a simple way to exchange or sell foreign coins and banknotes for cash — current or withdrawn — turning your Maltese Lira banknotes and any other leftover currency into one straightforward payout.