A Relic from the Kingdom of the White Rajahs

Own a premier piece of colonial history with this authentic 1935 Sarawak One Dollar note. This series represents the final era of the Brooke dynasty’s rule. Sir Charles Vyner Brooke is depicted here in his full administrative regalia, overseeing a territory known for its lush rainforests and unique political status as an independent state under British protection.

Historic & Design Highlights:

• Obverse (Front): Features a dignified portrait of Sir Charles Vyner Brooke (1874–1963) on the right. To the left, a picturesque scene of palm trees captures the tropical essence of the Kuching landscape. The design is framed by intricate Victorian-style scrollwork.

• Reverse (Back): Showcases the Sarawak State Crest in the center, flanked by two ornate geometric medallions. The denomination is printed in English ("ONE") and Malay ("SATU").

• Printer: Bradbury, Wilkinson & Co. Ltd., New Malden, Surrey, England.

• Signatory: Hand-signed in the plate by E. Parnell, Treasurer of Sarawak.

• Date of Issue: 1st January 1935.

Item Details:

• Issuer: Government of Sarawak.

• Denomination: One Dollar ($1).

• Pick Number: P-20 (KNB27).

• Serial Number: A/4 593957.

• Grading: PMG 35 Choice Very Fine.

• Condition Note: PMG has noted "Minor Rust" on the reverse of the holder. This is a common environmental characteristic for notes that survived the intense humidity of the Bornean jungle; it does not detract from the overall crispness and strong paper body of this Choice VF example.

Collector's Perspective: Sarawak currency is notoriously difficult to find in Choice VF or higher. Most of these notes were lost or destroyed during the Japanese occupation in 1941. This 1935 issue is particularly desirable as it represents the last stable currency run before the outbreak of WWII in the Pacific. It is a cornerstone for any collector of the "White Rajah" era or the Straits Settlements region