Among the many denominations issued by the United States, perhaps none are as intriguing or storied as these ultra-high-denomination notes printed from the 1860s to 1940s. Printed in minute quantities, most were readily redeemed by banks and were rarely circulated by the general public. Today ultra-high-denomination notes are scarce and are avidly pursued by collectors as objects of interest, often as “trophy notes” guaranteed to elicit interest and surprise from viewers.
Stack’s Bowers Galleries is pleased to present lot 20294, an ultra-rare 1934 $10,000 Federal Reserve Note Fr. 2231-C graded Choice Extremely Fine by PMG in our upcoming November 2023 Showcase auction crossing the block on Friday, November 17.
This example was once owned by poker legend Johnny Chan, the winner of 10 World Series of Poker bracelets including two Main Event wins in back-to-back years of 1987 and 1988, in addition to starring in the 1998 film “Rounders.” It is one of just four examples recorded for the Philadelphia district according to census data compiled by Track and Price.
Last sold by us in August 2012 when this note realized $55,812.50, a figure likely to be easily eclipsed. It exhibits only light circulation and retains excellent color and eye-appeal. A dark tone to the paper is otherwise observed, but does not distract attention.
PMG comments “Restoration.”
For high-denomination specialists seeking to expand their collections or for those seeking to assemble sets of $10,000 Federal Reserve Notes from as many districts as possible, Stack’s Bowers Galleries is pleased to offer this rare opportunity. We encourage bidders to take advantage of this once-a-decade opportunity to add this storied and extraordinarily rare note to your holdings.
This note will cross the auction block on Friday November 17, 2023. To consign your numismatic items to one of our upcoming auctions, please call 800-458-4646 or email Info@StacksBowers.com.
