My List of Top Ten Banknotes of India

Indian banknotes are known into existence since 1770 A.D. through texts. The earliest surviving note recorded is dating to 1812 of Bank of Bengal. This list given below is personal view and can be adopted by its admirer. The items are listed in order of their occurrence:

1. 1813, Bank of Bengal, 250 Sicca Rupees: 

22nd October 1813, 250 Sicca Rupees, Bank of Bengal, PMG graded 

Signed by Henry Tyler 

Bank of Bengal was established as Bank of Calcutta in 1806 and was renamed by the Royal Charter of 1809 granted by Lord Minto. It issued three broad categories of banknotes representing beautiful steel plate printed designs. The plates were made in London, England by Perkins & Companies (Jacob Perkins remained the common partner in the firm). The above 250 Sicca Rupees note is said to be printed by Perkins & Heath, Co. London Steel Hardened plate. The above note is the earliest example in the best condition available today. I will enjoy them watching but this is a stunning example! 

2. 1824, Bank of Bengal, 100 Sicca Rupees

24th March 1824

Leeward Islands 10 Shillings banknote sells for US$ 15,540

1921 Leeward Islands, 10 Shillings banknote

Image Courtesy: Paul Fraser Collectibles

In 1921 Leeward Island issued two banknotes of the denomination; 5 shillings and 10 shillings. It is surprisingly admirable that recent London Auctions discovered 10 Shillings banknote with serial number A/1 00001, the very first note issued. The above example was sold for respectable amount of US$ 15,540. It is also notable that these two notes are not catalogued in Pick, the authority of world banknotes. The banknote originated from Antigua, was never seen at any world auction. It was sold for £10,000 at the July 15 Suffolk sale (Paul Fraser 2013), a result of its rarity and its position at the head of the print run - collectors attach particular importance to specimens that are "the first", whether it is art prints, photographs or banknotes. It was once held in the possession of WD Auchinleck, who served as auditor general of Antigua and is himself one of the signatories on the note. A beautiful piece indeed!