Lot 2748

Description

Charles Brown, 33 Bourke St West Melbourne, issued at Melbourne, five pounds, currency note, dated 10th Aug. 1866, (186 printed), number No.3373, no watermark, value tablets in upper corners, imprint of 'Sands & McDougall Melb', stating on front 'Pay (hand written name [?]) or Bearer the sum of FIVE POUNDS Sterling', signed by ..(?). H. Clarence, FIVE across in background, all within rectangular ornamental border, with additional ink marks as number and initials on back, purple-brown on white (listed in Vort-Ronald Shinplasters p23). Corner missing, minor holes and thins, extensive toning back and front, folds and creases, otherwise nearly fine, extremely rare if not unique.

Ex Noble Numismatics Sale 49 (lot 1637) from the Dr. Alan Nicholson Collection.

Charles Brown who issued these promissory notes to the community was a stock and station agent of 33 Bourke Street West Melbourne. Early commercial paper money for Victoria for this period is much rarer, than in other states, probably because of a good supply of banknotes in circulation, thereby reducing demand for private currency notes.