1948-1958 first 3 sets difference

Version 1st set 2nd set 3rd set
SCWPM number / face value P.34-37 P.38-41 P.42-45
1 P.34 observeP.34 reverse P. 38 observeP.38 reverse P.42 observeP.42 reverse
5 P.35 observeP.35 reverse P. 39 observeP.39 reverse P.43 observeP.43 reverse
10 P.36 observeP.36 reverse P. 40 observeP.40 reverse P.44 observeP.44 reverse
100 P.37 observeP.37 reverse P. 41 observeP.41 reverse P.45 observeP.45 reverse

After the independence of Burma, the first set of banknotes was issued in 1948, and the second set was issued in 1952. In the same year, the denomination of the second set was changed from rupees to the current kyat, which was regarded as the third set of banknotes. The denominations and colors of the first three sets of banknotes are very similar. Many sellers and buyers are confused. Even auction houses and coin grading agencies have made mistakes. After careful comparison, you can see the difference.

Version 1st set 2nd set 3rd set
Year 1948-1952 1952 1952-1958
SCWPM Number P.34-37 P.38-41 P.42-45
Unit Rupee Rupee Kyat
Issuer 1R and 5R: Government of Burma
10R and 100R: Government of the Union of Burma		 Union Bank of Burma Union Bank of Burma
Number of signatures 2 1 1

Precautions:

  • The first set of the note has two signatures on the front, as opposed to the second and third sets, which have only one signature.
  • The issuer on the back of the first set of the banknotes is by ‘government’, which is different from the ‘Bank’ of the second and third sets.
  • The second and third sets have the same obverse.
  • The unit on the back of the second set is Rupee, and the unit on the back of the third set is kyat.