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Auction: 24500 - World Banknotes - e-Auction
Lot: 764

Oriental Bank Corporation, Hong Kong, [Top Pop and Discovery note] Front colour trial specimen for $5, Hong Kong, 1st of September 1882, no serial numbers,

a radiant gem from the era of colonial banking, this extraordinarily rare $5 obverse colour trial from the Oriental Bank Corporation is dated 1st September 1882. This uniface note, devoid of serial numbers, captivates with its vibrant purple hue juxtaposed against a light green background, featuring the bank's arms at its centre.

The Oriental Bank Corporation's story begins in 1842 in Bombay, where it was initially known as the Bank of Western India, established to support the expansionist trade ambitions of the British Empire in Asia. The bank's inception was strategically timed with the surge in commerce spurred by the opium trade, which had significant repercussions on the economic dynamics of the region. By 1843, the bank had ventured into Colombo, swiftly followed by Calcutta in 1844, showcasing its intent to dominate the financial landscape of the British territories.

The expansion to Hong Kong in 1846 was not merely an addition to its portfolio but a statement of the bank's aspirations to be at the epicentre of global trade routes. Hong Kong, under British control since the Treaty of Nanking in 1842, was rapidly becoming a central hub for trade, not just within the empire but also with China and beyond. Here, the bank facilitated transactions for merchants, dealt with remittances, and played a crucial role in the financial infrastructure of a burgeoning colonial economy.

A defining moment came in 1850 with the acquisition of the Bank of Ceylon, which not only expanded the bank's reach but also solidified its status as a major player in Asian finance. This led to its rebranding as the Oriental Bank Corporation in 1851 after being granted a royal charter, symbolising its importance and the trust placed in it by the Crown. This charter was not merely a formality but a testament to the bank's pivotal role in the economic strategy of the British Empire.

This $5 colour trial note is a relic of an era where innovation in banking was not just about functionality but also about making a statement through design. The bank's decision to experiment with colour was indicative of a bold vision to differentiate its currency in the market. However, while plans existed to issue a full series of coloured notes, (note the $25 of the same series is in orange), the $5 denomination reverted to black and white, adding to the uniqueness of this trial.

At a previous Spink auction in April 2018, an issued note from this series achieved a remarkable HKD 960,000, underlining the value collectors attribute to these historical artifacts. Now, Spink presents this singular colour trial for auction, offering collectors a rare opportunity to secure a piece of Hong Kong's financial heritage. This note stands out as a unique colour trial, providing a window into the innovative practices of 19th-century banking.

For those passionate about history, finance, or collecting, this note is an invaluable addition to any collection, embodying the spirit of an era where every banknote was a testament to the evolving narrative of global finance and colonial influence.

(Pick 267cts1), in PMG holder 63 Choice Uncirculated, selvage included, previously mounted. the sole finest graded note for the type on PMG Census, possibly unique and once in a life time opportunity to obtain a piece of Hong Kong financial history.

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Sold for
£10,000

Starting price
£2500