CHINA--EMPIRE. The Imperial Bank of China. 5 Dollars, 1904. P-A55a. PMG Choice Fine 15 Net. Split Repairs. (S/M#C293-20). Printed by BWC, with imprint at bottom. Shanghai. PMG has graded just two examples of this incredibly scarce variety at the time of cataloging. The front of the note depicts two facing dragons at top center, with Confucius standing at right and a red stamped seal at left. The reverse of the note displays a multi-colored design, with a seal at left, Confucius at right and dragons at top center. We have had the pleasure of offering the Proof and the Specimen forms of this type in the past, and are now please to present the ultra-rare issued example tonight to our bidders. Expect fierce competition to take this prize home, as it may be sometime before another example is offered publicly. PMG comments "Split Repairs."
