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Auction: 24038 - The Dr. Martin M Mortazavi Collection of Persian Banknotes
Lot: 11

(x) Imperial Bank of Persia, [Top Pop] set of front and back Colour Trial Specimen 20 Tomans, ND (1890-1923),
a remarkable set showcasing an exquisite colour palette. The front colour trial specimen is printed with hues of purple at the centre and pink on the sides against a verdant backdrop. The gentle tones of these colours accentuate the Persian coat of arms, the portrait of the Naser al-Din Shah Qajar, and the denomination, all printed in dark grey/black tones. The front colour trial note remains undated and unsigned. It comes as no surprise that these notes are highly sought after by collectors, given their unparalleled size and design aesthetics. Furthermore, this note has been bestowed with the esteemed EPQ designation by PMG.

Regarding the back note, it boasts a stunning green hue, deviating from the conventional orange seen on circulated notes. Both notes have "SPECIMEN" perforation and currently stand as the sole colour trial specimens for the type certified by PMG to date, underscoring their exceptional rarity,

(Pick 5cts1, 5cts2, BNB 107 for the type), in PMG holder 65 EPQ Gem Uncirculated, (1), 64 Choice Uncirculated (1), (total 2 notes, both sole examples graded by PMG) rare!

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

Sold for
£9,500

Starting price
£2100