Description and research notes
The 1981 one-dollar note represents the revised design phase of New Zealand’s decimal currency series, issued during the ND (1981–1985) period under the signature of H.R. Hardie as Chief Cashier. Although Hardie’s name also appears on the earlier ND (1977–1981) issues, this note belongs to the later redesign distinguished by the updated portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, presenting a more mature likeness and clearly separating it from the earlier, younger portrait type of the same signatory period.
Printed by Bradbury, Wilkinson & Company, Limited, this issue marks a transition in production away from the earlier Thomas De La Rue printings. The engraving reflects the refined late-period banknote style, with intricate guilloche patterns and balanced color layering characteristic of Bradbury, Wilkinson & Company’s output during the early 1980s.
This example is a fully issued circulation note, carrying Serial AAA000662, and does not display any specimen cancellation features such as overprints, perforations, punch holes, or control stamps. Its preservation allows full appreciation of the design elements without interference from specimen markings.
The obverse features the revised portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, while the Captain James Cook watermark remains consistent with earlier decimal issues, maintaining continuity within New Zealand’s currency identity. The reverse presents native flora and fauna, reflecting the national thematic direction of the series.
As part of the ND (1981–1985) Hardie issue, this note represents the stabilized stage of New Zealand’s decimal system, following the earlier transitional periods of Fleming, Wilks, and the first Hardie design. The combination of updated portraiture, printer change, and refined production techniques defines this as a distinct and mature phase within the country’s modern banknote evolution.
Graded PMG 67 EPQ Superb Gem Uncirculated, the note stands at the highest tier of preservation, exhibiting full originality, strong embossing, and exceptional color clarity. The Exceptional Paper Quality designation confirms undisturbed paper integrity and complete preservation of original manufacturing characteristics, placing this example among the finest known for the type.