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].
