PMG 65 EPQ Eastern Caribbean 100 Dollar Specimen 1965 Pick #16bs QEII Highest Denomination Banknote Rare Specimen
basic information
Issuing country: East Caribbean States
Face value: 100 Dollars
Publication year: ND (1965)
Catalog number: Pick#16bs
Printing company: Thomas De La Rue (TDLR)
Appraisal institution: PMG
Grade: 65 Gem Uncirculated EPQ
Serial number: A1 000000 10
Watermark: Queen Elizabeth II
Specifications: SPECIMEN (sample voucher)
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History and background of publication
This banknote is a SPECIMEN (sample) of the $100 bill issued in 1965 by the East Caribbean Currency Authority. It was part of a series used as a common currency among the Eastern Caribbean countries and regions that were members at the time, and is a non-circulating sample banknote distributed to financial institutions and related organizations.
The $100 face value is the highest in the series, and both the regular circulation and SPECIMEN versions are rare, making them highly sought after by collectors.
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Design Features
The front of the banknote features a portrait of a young Queen Elizabeth II, with a map of the Eastern Caribbean islands in the background. It showcases De La Rue's sophisticated banknote-making techniques, including a watermark of Queen Elizabeth II and intricate guilloché patterns.
The reverse side features a beautiful Caribbean coastal landscape with palm trees, and the names of the member regions are arranged in an arch shape, creating an iconic design. It is clearly distinguished from regular banknotes by its red SPECIMEN overprint, a punch hole specifically for sampling notes, and a "NO VALUE" stamp.
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Specifications, collectible value, and market value
This paper has received a **65 EPQ (Gem Uncirculated Exceptional Paper Quality)** rating from PMG, guaranteeing its unused and beautifully preserved condition.
This item is extremely rare, with only two 65 EPQ graded according to the PMG Population Report, and only three higher graded versions. The $100 SPECIMEN, the highest denomination in the series, is rarely seen on the market and is highly valued as an important piece in Eastern Caribbean banknote collections.
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Condition and authenticity check of listed items
The listed items are genuine slabs that have been authenticated by PMG.
This is a high-quality, unused banknote graded 65 Gem Uncirculated EPQ, receiving an Exceptional Paper Quality (EPQ) rating. Its authenticity can be verified with a PMG certification number, making it a safe addition to any collection.
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FAQ
Q. What is a SPECIMEN?
A. These are sample banknotes distributed to financial institutions and related organizations, and are not intended for general circulation.
Q. What is EPQ?
A. This is an abbreviation for Exceptional Paper Quality, and it is a rating given to high-quality, unused banknotes whose paper quality remains unchanged from the original.
Q. Is this banknote rare?
A. Yes. The $100 Specimen itself is rare, and there are only two PMG65 EPQ cards and a mere three higher-grade cards, making it an extremely rare collector's item.
