An
amazing African paper money rarity is coming up in our August ANA auction in
Rosemont, Illinois. This German East Africa 500 Rupien note, dated 1912, and
graded Choice Uncirculated 63 by PMG is the single finest graded. Despite a
minor restoration noted on the holder for a small corner outside of the design,
it is by far the nicest seen of this classic banknote that only circulated for
a few years prior to World War II.
This
banknote represented a huge sum of money, about 170 US dollars at the time and
only the largest transactions in the colony would have required a 500 Rupien
note. Less than 1,000 pieces were reportedly issued into circulation, making
this a great rarity in African and German numismatics.
Most
of German East Africa would become the present-day country of Tanzania. Another
former European colony, Zanzibar (under British rule until 1963), is located
just off its coast and issued some of the most well-known rarities in African
banknotes. No examples in issued form are presently known of the Zanzibar 500
Rupees. This German East Africa rarity that will be offered in our ANA World’s
Fair of Money auction presents a similar face value and would make a great addition
to any advanced collection of African banknotes. It will carry a very modest
estimate of $30,000 to $50,000 USD.
For
questions regarding this rarity, or to consign to our upcoming ANA or August
Hong Kong Sales, please email [email protected].
