Specimens

Sample notes, usually bearing special or all zero serial numbers and overprinted or perforated with word "Specimen" in the language of the language of the origin. Usually distributed on a restricted basis between natinal banks, treasuries and law enforcement agencies to familiarize them with newly issued currency. Specimen notes are not legal tender or redeemable, thus have no real 'face value' which also is indicated on some examples. The most unusual forms of Specimens were produced by the firm of Waterlow and Sons Ltd. They printed the notes with a company seal, and very offen made them in several different colour combinations in addition to the regularly approved colours. These were intended to be mounted in saleman's sample books.

Malaya KGVI 1st January 1942 $100 (Specimen)

A very rare 'Specimen' from the Malaya featuring King George VI. A large formate note with vibrant colour and design.

A similar piece was auctioned off at S$12000 excluding buyer's premium at Spink on 22 June 1996, lot 705.

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