Relatively little is known about Series A banknotes as very few examples of issued notes have survived. Proofs and specimens are common.
At least one example of an early issued note numbered 1, with a date in 1835 has been recorded, for the National Bank of Tipperary. This is evidence of the National Bank commencing its note issue at this time, shortly before its rival Ulster Bank started issuing notes in 1836.
Large sized banknotes. Uniface. Head Office not listed on banknotes.
The name of the branch of issue is printed at the top of each note inside the border.
Most known banknotes are Specimens, Proofs or cancelled issued notes. A few surviving issued £1 notes have been offered, most of these being banknote number 1 of a branch. It is possible that all the number 1 notes were retained.
There are three Types by major design variation for Series A banknotes, and several variations.
Denomination in figures on the top right.
Three varieties:
Type A1. Coat of arms without dogs.
Type A2. Coat of arms with dogs on each side of it.
Type A3. Denomination in outline letters added in the centre of each note.
Denomination in large letters in the centre of each note.
Other minor variations exist, including the designation of the currency as “Pounds Irish” and “Pounds Sterling” at various different times.
Branches are listed on the left side of the banknote.
Denomination in large letters in the centre of each note.
Type A
Type B
Type C