10 Rupees Burma Overprint CD Deshmukh Note

This currency note shown in the images is a historical 10 Rupees banknote issued by the Reserve Bank of India. This particular note is distinctive as it is an overprinted version for use in Burma (now Myanmar) during the British colonial period.

The front side of the note (first image) features the text “RESERVE BANK OF INDIA” at the top center. Below this, there is a traditional sailing boat, known as a dhow, depicted in intricate detail on the sea, which reflects India’s rich maritime heritage. The denomination “TEN RUPEES” is clearly printed at the bottom corners. On the left side, the value “Ten Rupees” is written in multiple Indian languages, emphasizing the multilingual character of Indian currency.

The reverse side of the note (second image) prominently displays the portrait of King George VI, who was the British monarch at the time of this issue. Around the portrait, the note carries a declaration: “I promise to pay the bearer the sum of TEN RUPEES on demand at any office of issue,” which is a standard phrase on Indian banknotes, signifying the promise of value backed by the government. Uniquely, this note has the text “BURMA CURRENCY BOARD” and “LEGAL TENDER IN BURMA ONLY” overprinted in red ink, indicating that it was specifically overprinted for use in Burma, which was then a province under British India.

The serial number of the note is seen on both top left and bottom right, printed in green ink. The signature of the Reserve Bank Governor, C.D. Deshmukh, appears at the bottom left on the reverse side, helping date the note approximately to the mid-20th century when he served as Governor (1943-1949).

This note is a fascinating example of colonial-era currency, bridging Indian and Burmese monetary history under British rule. It reflects the era’s political and economic context, with specialized banknotes issued for different regional markets within the British Empire. This note is now a collector’s item, appreciated for its historical and numismatic value.