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Stack's Bowers & Ponterio
April 2022 Valkenburg Auction  28 Apr 2022
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Lot 30341

Starting price: 12 000 USD
Price realized: 16 000 USD
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VIETNAM, SOUTH. National Bank. 1000 Dong, ND (1955-56). P-4As. Specimen. PMG Superb Gem Uncirculated 67 EPQ.
Known as the Holy Grail of South Viet Nam Banknotes, this note has increased drastically in popularity over the years for a multitude of reasons. A must have for enthusiasts, this treasure is at the top of every serious collector's list for multiple reasons; its beauty, design, scarcity and interesting history, and the degree of difficulty in obtaining an example, especially in this beautiful uncirculated state.

This note was proposed to the government after the Thomas De La Rue Company was commissioned to create a piece that represented the essence of South Viet Nam. The Old Man was printed to signify dedication and longevity, while he stared at the temple that represented the religious sentiment of the region. On the reverse a stunning woman offers an aura equal to that of the Mona Lisa. The background displays a boat on a lake with a mountainous landscape -- a symbol of the beauty of the area.

TDLR produced a few test creations and ultimately the proposed design on this featured note was chosen. Sadly, while this design was approved through the Proof and Specimen stages, it was never issued, most likely due to the war. Therefore, it is only available as a Proof, or a Specimen. The differences between a Proof and a Specimen example lie only with the native woman Watermark, GIAY MAU overprint on the back ,and red specimen numbers that are seen on the Specimens. We are very excited to offer this note as we seldom have the opportunity to present one in Public Auction. With only a very limited amount of pieces known, it is certain that whomever is lucky enough to own this note can say that they have a coveted piece of World Currency.

Red "357" Control Numbers.

PMG Pop 5/None Finer.

Estimate: $20000 - $30000

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