By Aris Maragoudakis – Director of World Currency Auctions, Stack’s Bowers Galleries ……
The Stack’s Bowers Galleries upcoming January 2020 New York International Numismatic Convention (NYINC) Sale will feature a tremendously beautiful example of the most sought after banknote from South Viet-Nam (lot 30464).
Known as the “Holy Grail of South Viet Nam Banknotes”, this 1,000 Đong Specimen note has increased drastically in popularity over the years for multiple reasons. This treasure is at the top of many a serious collector’s list for its beauty, design, scarcity and interesting history. It is very challenging to obtain an example, especially in this beautiful uncirculated state.
This note was proposed to the government after the Thomas De La Rue Company was commissioned to create a piece that represented the essence of South Viet Nam. The Old Man was printed to signify dedication and longevity. He is staring at the temple, representing the religious sentiment of the region. On the reverse the aura presented by the stunning woman is equal to that of the Mona Lisa. The background displays a boat on a lake with a mountainous landscape symbolizing the beauty of the area.
Thomas De La Rue produced a few test creations and ultimately the proposed design on the 1,000 Đong note was chosen. Sadly, while this design was approved through the Proof and Specimen stages, it was never issued, most likely due to the war. Therefore, it is only available as a Proof, or a Specimen. The differences between a Proof and a Specimen example lie only with the native woman Watermark, GIAY MAU overprint on the back, and red specimen numbers that are seen on the Specimens.
We are very excited to offer this note as we seldom have the opportunity to present one in our auctions. With only a very small quantity of pieces known, it is certain that the lucky buyer will be thrilled with this coveted piece of world currency.
* * *
Come See Stack’s Bowers at the 65th Annual F.U.N. Show in January
The Stack’s Bowers Galleries team is headed to Orlando, Florida, January 9-12, 2020, for the 65th Annual F.U.N. Show. Swing by Tables 321, 323, 420 and 422 to meet with our experts. Brian Kendrella, Lawrence Stack, Christine Karstedt, Scott Reiter, Bobby Avena, Peter Treglia, Vicken Yegparian, Wayne Berkley, Aris Maragoudakis and others will be on hand to help you with all of your numismatic needs.
Highlights from our exciting 2020 auction season will be on display. From our upcoming official auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Spring Expo we will have on display the ESM Collection of Half Cents, the Larry Ness Collection of Indian Peace Medals and The Richard Jewell Collection of Numismatic Americana. If you are thinking of selling, there is still time to consign alongside these important collections.
We will also be accepting consignments for our 10th Anniversary Hong Kong Auction coming up in March. Whether you have some choice and interesting duplicates, sets, or series to sell or whether you have a great collection laden with rarities, our Dream Team would like to hear from you. Come by our table to speak with a specialist or call 800-458-4646 (West Coast) or 800-566-2580 (East Coast).
Also on display with be an incredible tribute to the Libertas Americana medal, assembled by the Cardinal Collection Education Foundation. The display, centered around one of the most beautiful and important medals struck in American history, will be found at the firm’s bourse tables 321, 323, 420 and 422. Back by popular demand, this collection drew dozens of interested collectors at the ANA convention in August and will be enjoyed once more by those attending this year’s FUN show. Learn more about this collection.
