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!