One of the rarities to be featured in our upcoming August Hong Kong auction will be an incredibly rare 1902-dated One Piastre note from the Canton Shameen branch on the Bank of Indo China. Printed by A. Bramtot et G Duval FEC and the current plate note in Standard Catalog of World Paper Money, Volume II (Pick reference). This incredible rarity is listed as an R6 (highest rarity rating, save for being unique, "nearly unique, two or three known") in Billets de la Banque de L’Indochine by Maurice Kolsky. The plate note for the latter book is a specimen note accentuating the rarity of this issued item.
The primary use of the Banco de L’Indochine notes prior to the decree of May 16, 1900, was in French Colonies. This decree when signed provided the bank to operate until 1920 and also gave permit to operate within China and Siam. Nearly a year after the signing, the Canton branch was established in March 1901. The time delay was largely due to hardships caused by the Boxer rebellion. This note shows the Director signature of Stanislas Simon and Administrative signature of Baron Hely D’Oissel. The note has the appeal of a full Very Fine example, with nice detail of the bordering design and overprints. Some pinholes at left and a touch of pencil at the lower right are noted. Attractive “$1” watermark at lower right center. Certainly one of the most important banknotes we have ever offered in our Hong Kong auctions.
We are always accepting consignments for future auctions, including World paper money for our November Baltimore, December Hong Kong and January NYINC auctions. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your consignment options at 800-458-4646.
