Burma Five Rupees 1938 Signed by J B Taylor Note

This 5 Rupees note issued by the Reserve Bank of India was specifically designed for use in Burma during British colonial times. After Burma was separated from British India in 1937, the two regions shared some monetary systems, but Burma needed its own notes for daily transactions. The special series, often called “Peacock Notes,” was first released in 1938 and featured unique symbols, languages, and inscriptions to make them suitable for use in Burma, not India.

On one side of the note, you can see a portrait of King George VI, symbolizing British rule, along with a peacock illustration below, which is an important cultural symbol for Burma. The promise statement on the note clearly says it is payable only at offices in Burma. The serial number and the signature of J.B. Taylor, who was the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, are displayed as official markers.

The other side of the note features an elephant in a Burmese forest, highlighting the region’s wildlife and environment. The design also includes multiple languages: English, Burmese, and Shan, reflecting the diverse population of Burma at the time. The text and artwork make it clear that the note was not valid in India and was meant to serve the people of Burma until the country eventually adopted its own currency after independence.

Today, these notes are considered rare collectibles due to their distinct historical background, the transitional period they represent for Burma, and their visually appealing motifs. They provide a snapshot of colonial administration and economic interaction between India and Burma, making them prized finds for collectors and historians alike.