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Auction: 24008 - World Banknotes
Lot: 723

(x) States of North Africa, Printer's Design, 5 Cents, serial number 1257 091531, 1.32 annotation on reverse,
this note is one of 6 printer's design 5 Cents in this sale, with different colours and matching serial numbers, labelled as being from the States of North Africa. These notes are undated, but the designs are consistent with those motifs popular circa 1900. The exact circumstances of the production of these banknotes are unknown, nor is their country of origin. The profile bust of helmeted Pericles is also found on Greek banknotes and the overall design is likewise similar to some Italian notes, however the English text and names of the currency commissioners - Barnett and Loames - do not immediately suggest affiliation with these nations. The linguistic origin of the names Barnett and Loames, coupled together with the language of the text would evidence a possible relation with Great Britain, Canada, or the United States, but further research has not unearthed any connection between these countries, or Italy or Greece, with the idea to create a "States of North Africa" currency. Nothing related to these banknotes can be found in either the Standard Catalogue of Paper Money or in the Banknote Book. It is nevertheless hypothetical that these notes were created by a nation with hopes to form a "States of North Africa" of their colonial holdings. Obviously, this plan never came to fruition, nor did it likely advance far given the lack of information on such a scheme. These notes represent an extremely intriguing history and a unique set of banknotes
(Pick unlisted), in PMG holder 64 Choice Uncirculated, previously mounted

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£500

Starting price
£140