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The Ghana 100 Cedis 1965 banknote, cataloged as Pick #9s and certified as a specimen in UNC64 condition by PCGS, is a remarkable and historic piece of African numismatics. Issued during a pivotal time in Ghana’s post-independence history, this note was part of the country’s first fully decimalized currency series, which replaced the British-style pounds, shillings, and pence with the cedi and pesewa. The introduction of the cedi in 1965 represented a significant moment in Ghana’s effort to forge a national identity through monetary independence. The 100 Cedis denomination, being the highest in the series, was primarily used for high-level financial transactions and as a reserve instrument within banking institutions. As a specimen note, this example was never issued for circulation and was printed in limited quantities for archival, display, and reference use, distinguished by its red “SPECIMEN” overprint and zeroed serial numbers.
Ghana’s transition to the cedi in 1965 occurred under the leadership of President Kwame Nkrumah, who spearheaded the move toward economic self-reliance and cultural pride. The new currency system aligned Ghana more closely with global decimal standards and was intended to reinforce the country’s sovereignty following its 1957 independence from Britain. The Bank of Ghana took over the responsibility of currency issuance from the West African Currency Board, and the 1965 series was printed by the renowned British firm Thomas De La Rue. The 100 Cedis note symbolized not only financial modernization but also the consolidation of state authority under Nkrumah’s increasingly centralized government.
The obverse of the note features a powerful left-facing portrait of President Kwame Nkrumah wearing traditional Ghanaian kente cloth, a visual representation of cultural nationalism and leadership. The portrait is rendered in detailed intaglio engraving, capturing the folds of the cloth and the intensity of Nkrumah’s expression. This image is framed by ornate guilloché patterns in deep reds, oranges, and subtle browns, which both decorate and secure the note against counterfeiting. The legend “BANK OF GHANA” spans the top margin, while the denomination “100 CEDIS” appears prominently below the portrait. The serial numbers are shown as all zeroes, consistent with specimen production, and the diagonal red “SPECIMEN” overprint is applied across the center of the note, marking it as non-negotiable.
The note’s dimensions, color palette, and artistic elements reflect a high degree of sophistication in currency design. The fine-lined background textures and geometrical motifs provide a multi-layered surface that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally secure. The UNC64 PCGS grade signifies a note with exceptional eye appeal, full original color, and strong paper quality, albeit with minor signs of handling that preclude a gem-level grade. The note retains excellent centering, sharp corners, and clean margins, with no folds, tears, or significant blemishes.
The reverse of the note presents a detailed architectural rendering of the State House of Ghana, also known as Flagstaff House. This government building, depicted in three-quarter view, represents the administrative heart of the nation and reinforces the authority of the state. Palm trees, fences, and flags are visible in the foreground, lending a sense of realism and pride in national infrastructure. The structure is drawn with precision, and the use of fine linework and geometric embellishments adds depth and texture. The reverse’s dominant color scheme features rich browns and tans that contrast harmoniously with the red tones of the obverse.
The reverse design also includes the denomination “100 CEDIS” clearly printed in each corner and at center, along with continued use of guilloché frames and microtext patterns for security. The paper retains full crispness and texture, and under magnification, the note’s intaglio ink reveals fine embossing from the printing process—characteristics that validate its premium paper quality. The back design balances modernity and national symbolism, reflecting Ghana’s commitment to economic progress and civic pride in the post-colonial era.
Specimen notes such as this were generally printed in very limited quantities—often under 1,000 pieces—and distributed to central banks, archival institutions, and security printers for cataloging or display. They were rarely seen outside of official settings and have become particularly desirable among collectors due to their rarity, pristine preservation, and complete design clarity. The combination of high denomination, historical importance, and specimen status makes this 100 Cedis note one of the most sought-after pieces in Ghanaian numismatics. Unlike circulated notes, specimens typically retain vibrant inks, full embossing, and paper brightness, and are typically unmarred by folds or soiling.
This note holds deep historical significance as a symbol of President Nkrumah’s ambition to build a Pan-African socialist state rooted in indigenous culture and economic autonomy. Currency was a vital part of that narrative, and the 1965 cedi series carried a clear message of national pride and progress. However, following Nkrumah’s ousting in 1966, the notes bearing his image were quickly withdrawn and replaced with a redesigned cedi series in 1967, making these original issues a fleeting but powerful remnant of Ghana’s first republic. This political shift, combined with the limited issuance of specimen notes, has made surviving examples like this one especially rare.
The PCGS UNC64 grade assures collectors of the note’s near-pristine condition and authenticity. While slightly shy of gem uncirculated status, the note exhibits only minimal evidence of handling, likely from its archival storage or presentation. The paper remains fully original, with sharp edges and strong registration between the printing plates. The vibrant inks and lack of toning further enhance its desirability, and it remains a textbook example of mid-20th-century African currency production at the height of design and ideological purpose.
In conclusion, the Ghana 100 Cedis 1965 P#9s Specimen banknote graded UNC64 by PCGS is a scarce and historically meaningful artifact from a bold and transformative period in African monetary history. With its commanding portrait of Kwame Nkrumah, detailed depiction of national government architecture, and high-quality British printing, the note exemplifies the fusion of art, politics, and economic symbolism. Its limited issuance, exceptional preservation, and national significance make it a valuable and compelling addition to any advanced collection of African or global banknotes.