A group of three Zanzibar Government examples will lead among world banknotes
An upcoming sale of world banknotes on October 2-3 in London will be led by a remarkable set from the Zanzibar Government.
All three of the notes originate from the British protectorate of Zanzibar
The group of three are among some of the rarest banknotes known to collectors, and are in remarkable condition given their age. Leading the set will be a fantastic 20 rupee example which was first issued on August 1, 1916.
The note originates from the British protectorate of Zanzibar, which lasted from the signing of the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty of 1890 until the state received independence in 1963. Featuring a red serial number of 164484 and depicting a dhow ship and fruit pickers, it is expected to bring 25,000-35,000 ($40,500-56,800). Its condition is marred by margin splits at the base and some "very minor" graffiti on the reverse.
A 10 rupee note, issued onFebruary 1, 1928, will follow. With the red serial number 128106 and the same images as the 1916 note, it is estimated at 26,000-32,000 ($42,000-52,000).A fold at the centre affects the otherwise extremely fine condition of the note, though the auction house states that the paper retains good body.
The final note of the group is the "classic rarity" 5 rupee note, which was also issued on August 1, 1916. With the serial number 78953 and in very fine condition, it will sell with a 10,000-12,000 ($16,000-19,500) estimate.
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