Rare $100 Trillion Zimbabwe Banknote Auctioned for £750

A rare and striking banknote from Zimbabwe, valued at an astonishing $100 trillion, is set to be auctioned for an estimated £750 on March 26. This 2008 specimen, issued by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, symbolizes a tumultuous period of hyperinflation during the latter years of Robert Mugabe‘s rule.

This notable piece of currency, known officially as the 100 Trillion Dollars 2008 Pick 91s Specimen PMG Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ, is one of the rarest banknotes in existence. According to PMG (Paper Money Guarantee) census records, over 11,900 regular notes were issued, alongside 666 replacement notes. Yet, only five specimen versions are known to be in circulation, including the one now available through Heritage Auctions.

Unique Features and Auction Highlights

The banknote features a unique design that reflects the extreme economic challenges faced by Zimbabwe. The auction will take place as part of Heritage Auctions’ World Paper Money Signature Sale, where this peculiar high-denomination note is expected to attract significant interest from collectors.

In addition to the Zimbabwe note, the auction will showcase other remarkable items, including a rare Lebanese banknote. The Lebanon Banque de Syrie et du Liban 250 Livres 1939 Pick 21 PMG Extremely Fine 40 is also up for bid. Regarded as one of the most elusive pieces in paper money collecting, only a limited number of these banknotes were printed, making them highly sought after.

Dustin Johnston, Senior Vice President at Heritage Auctions, remarked, “Collectors of banknotes from around the globe will find plenty in this auction that will make impressive additions to their collections.” He emphasized the diversity of offerings, which include exceptional selections from countries such as Austria, Canada, Egypt, Germany, and Costa Rica.

Notable Auction Items

Among the standout items is a Singapore Board of Commissioners of Currency 10,000 Dollars ND (1980). This banknote, part of the Bird Series, showcases Singapore’s skyline and its waterfront, illustrating the city’s transformation into a global financial hub. The note’s intricate design has made it particularly attractive to collectors.

Another noteworthy item is the Costa Rican Banco Internacional de Costa Rica 2 Colones 10.3.1936 Pick 167 PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. Known as the “Mona Lisa Note,” it features an engraving of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting. Of the 290 examples graded by PMG, only nine have received a higher grade, reflecting its desirability among collectors.

The auction is set to present a variety of rare and historically significant banknotes, providing a unique opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Each piece not only represents a form of currency but also tells a story of the economic conditions and artistic expressions of its time.