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Auction: 24038 - The Dr. Martin M Mortazavi Collection of Persian Banknotes
Lot: 29

(x) Imperial Bank of Persia, [Top Pop] set of front and back Proof 100 Tomans, ND (1924-32),
an extremely rare set of front and back proof 100 Toman notes, as described in the previous lot, the 100 Tomans became the highest and key denomination of the 2nd and final series issued by the Imperial Bank of Persia. These proofs represent a preparatory stage in the design process before the notes were approved for production and circulation.

Similar to specimens, once a proof is approved, the plate is used for the banknotes production. Some proofs may be printed in different colours than those adopted for circulation, just like colour trials. This set exemplifies that. What sets these notes apart from any other type of specimen is the fact that this complete plate design was printed on non-issued paper, distinguishing them from specimens.

On the front, Naser-al-Din Shah Qajar is depicted in a circular frame at the right centre, surrounded by hues of purple and green, deviating from the dominant blue, brown, green, yellow, and red of the issued notes. The denomination is prominently displayed at the centre and each corner. The note is unsigned and undated.

The same palette of purple and green is used in the back proof, deviating from the reddish-brown and dark blue of the issued notes. Both notes are "SPECIMEN" perforated.

These notes are the single finest examples of their type graded by PMG, combining exceptional quality with rarity, making this set so much more special,

(Pick 17p1, 17p2, BNB 119 for the type), in PMG holder 62 NET Uncirculated, edge damage, previously mounted (1), 62 NET Uncirculated, previously mounted, minor rust (1), both banknotes are single finest graded on PMG Census

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

Sold for
£3,800

Starting price
£2100