Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 25400 - World Banknotes - e-Auction
Lot: 464

(x) The Manx Bank Limited, Isle of Man, £1, Douglas, 1st October 1891, serial number 20942,
We are delighted to present this truly remarkable banknote at auction. Bearing the manuscript signatures of Callister and Sutherland at the lower centre of the obverse, the note features a magnificent vignette of the Tower of Refuge in Douglas Harbour proudly at its centre.

The Tower of Refuge is a symbol of historical importance to Manx heritage. It was constructed in 1832 on a partially submerged reef known as Conister Rock (of St Mary's Isle). Founder of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, and resident of Douglas, Sir William Hillary had the tower constructed as a safe haven and beacon of safety for shipwrecked sailors. It was stocked with food, water, and essential supplies until rescuers could arrive. It remains an enduring image of dangers of the maritime industry and the resilience of Manx identity.

The note presented here is incredibly rare. According to English Paper Money (10th Edition), there are 'none known' of this type. Our cataloguers have traced only one similar example previously on the market, though this had a different date of issue. Not only this, but the note is clean and bright, and the quality Waterlow & Sons printing is astonishing for such an early banknote.

This is a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire a truly scarce design and a one-of-a-kind Isle of Man banknote.

(Pick 16b, IOMPM M316), extremely fine, multiple folds and creases but impressive condition across its edges and corners, in great condition for such a rare note of this age!

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

Estimate

Starting price
£15000