In our upcoming April
2017 Hong Kong Auction, we are offering a medium format Hong Kong &
Shanghai Banking Corporation Five Dollar note with Hand Drawn signatures. This
lot is among the most significant rarities we are offering in this highly
comprehensive selection of notes from Hong Kong. This 19th century item is only
the second we have handled for the design type and is rarely seen in any form. It
is printed by Barclay and Fry and features a large format design with arms at
top center and ornate protectors at upper left and right. The back is printed
in a deep red hue with arms again flanked by numeral “5” counters.
The note overall has
great body for the grade and pleasing color throughout. Some small splits at
the margins are seen along with a few minor stains (as mentioned on the PCGS
holder). However, this is the finest we have handled, and according to the population
reports we have seen, we believe it to be the finest known example. PMG has
only certified a Fine 15 Net that was repaired and had Rust Damage. Those
netting defects are not present on this stunning example. The hand drawn
signatures present in the signature panels are gorgeous.
Our Hong Kong paper money
auction will begin at 1:00 PM on April 3, 2017. If you are considering
consignment to a future Stack’s Bowers sale, the firm is currently accepting
consignments for the 2017 auction season. For more information, or
further inquiries please contact our World Currency Specialist at
Aris@stacksbowers.com.