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Auction: 403 - World Banknotes at NY INC
Lot: 500

Banque de Syrie, Syria, specimen 25 Piastres, Beyrouth, 1st August 1919,
This 25 Piastres note stands out for its vibrant colour palette, with intricate designs rendered in shades of blue, orange, green, and red. The front of the note prominently features Arabic and French inscriptions, reflecting the bilingual nature of the region under the French Mandate. At its centre lies a depiction of the iconic Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, one of the oldest and most revered mosques in the world. Built on the site of a Roman temple and a later Christian basilica, the Umayyad Mosque is a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture, renowned for its grandeur and historical significance as a spiritual and cultural hub.

On the reverse, the note continues its artistic narrative with a striking composition: Corinthian columns, reminiscent of ancient Roman design, frame a walking horse. This imagery evokes a sense of power and movement while paying homage to the classical influences that shaped the region’s artistic heritage. The combination of architectural and symbolic motifs ties the note’s design to the rich history of Syria, a crossroads of civilizations.

Issued during the transformative period of the French Mandate, this note represents a fascinating blend of historical, cultural, and artistic elements. Its vivid colours and detailed engravings make it a true collector’s piece, capturing the essence of a complex era in the region’s history.
(Pick 2s, PCLB 2), in PMG holder 63 Choice Uncirculated, previously mounted, only 6 notes in higher grade on PMG Census

Estimate
$1,200 to $1,800

Starting price
$800