This note is an anomaly of survival. Usually, just specimens of this type are typically encountered, which in themselves are rarely encountered, with PMG reporting grading just 7 specimens. This note is fully issued, with serial numbers and block numbers. At the time of cataloging, PMG reports a scant two issued notes graded by their service, both in the same VF 25 grades, however this one gained PMG's coveted EPQ designation. The Provisional Government seal is seen on the reverse of the note, which had only existed for around 7 months: from the time of Tsar Nicholas II abdication of the throne on March 15, 1917 until the October Revolution of 1917, when the Bolsheviks gained full power and established a new government.
This note is found with PMG's EPQ designation, retaining fully original paper from 100 years ago. Two allegorical women are seen on the face of the note, one seated on square containing the denomination, with the other standing and holding an object. The number "50" can be counted an astounding 94 times on the face of the note, making up the border design and seen in each corner. A multicolored design is seen surrounding the "50" obligation at center, with detailed lathe work around it.
It is a miracle this note was spared destruction during the revolution and later purges of material. This note will surely be the centerpiece of any collection of Russian paper money it enters, and its historical importance is second to none. If this note could talk, we can only imagine the stories it could tell and the history it has witnessed.
Estimate: $5000.00- $10000.00