1902东方汇理银行广东沙面壹圆 八品
CHINA--FOREIGN BANKS. Banque De LIndo-Chine. 1 Piastre, 15.1.1902. P-S436.(S/M #T204-1) SCWPM plate note printed by A. Bramtot et G Duval FEC. This trophy note is listed as an R6 (highest rarity rating, save for being unique), "nearly unique, two or three known," in Les Billets De La Banque De LIndochine by Maurice Kolsky. The plate note used to illustrate the previously mentioned book is a specimen example showing without serial numbers which creates more proof that this note is terrifically rare in issued form.
The note is one of two pieces we are offering from this issuer with the other lot being a Five Piastre specimen note. The primary focus of Banque De LIndochine notes prior to decree of May 16th 1900 was for use in French Colonies. This decree when signed provided the bank to operate until 1920 and also gave permittance operate within China and Siam. Nearly a year after the signing the Canton branch was established in March of 1901. The time delay was largely due to the Boxer Rebellion creating hardships.
The Canton branch was the first to open which occurred on the third of March in 1902. The note shows the Director signature of Stanislas Simon and Administrative signature of Baron Hely DOissel. We can not find any records of this note selling in a previous sale and it surely will be an immediate highlight for any collections it enters. The appeal of a full VF grade is observed with nice detail of the border design and well defined overprints.
A harder vertical fold at center and pinholes at left keep the note from being a technical VF and we mention a bit of pencil at the bottom right. Truly an amazing note which is among the most important banknotes we have ever handled.Fine-Very Fine
