Central Bank of North Korea, 1947, 15 Chon, First Issue, Watermarked Version.

Product Description

This 1947 North Korean Central Bank note (15 cheon) is the smallest denomination subsidiary coin in North Korea's first official banknote series. It has the international banknote catalog number Pick P5a (watermarked version) and is a collectible coin matching the 1-won note in the same series.

Obverse Details

The entire sheet is printed in brown-red using engraving. The top features the words "North Korean Central Bank Note" in traditional Chinese characters, with the denomination "15 cheon" written in large characters in the center. The bottom border contains the year of issue, 1947. The left and right sides are engraved with the number "15" and the corresponding Korean denomination. The border features a complex anti-counterfeiting mesh pattern, and the decorative scrollwork inherits the classic craftsmanship of the Soviet printing press.

Reverse Details

The top features an arched Korean inscription "조선 (Korea)," flanked by symmetrical large numbers "15." The center of the circle is engraved with the Korean inscription "전 (money)." The overall layout is simple, with a full-page spiral anti-counterfeiting background. It lacks landscape or portrait images, making it a unique subsidiary coin design for this set of banknotes.

Version Differentiation This item is a Soviet original watermark banknote (Pick P5a): The original was printed by the Goznak factory in the Soviet Union before the founding of the Republic of Korea. The paper features a symmetrical watermark pattern, and its surviving quantity is extremely limited.

Condition Description The paper has a natural beige-yellow aging color, with slight wear on the edges. There are no tears, holes, mold, or large stains. The engraving lines are complete and clear, with no creases or serious damage. It can be stored directly in a protective bag.

Specifications