PREVIEW: WORLD BANKNOTES: 28 MAY

At first, Euros from the 21st century might not seem a prime candidate for collectors, but as with all banknotes, rarities – especially those in exceptional condition – can command a premium.

Here a remarkable, complete set of European Central Bank specimens from the 2002 series presents bidders with an opportunity to acquire something exceptional.

 

Comprising 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros, they carry the serial numbers V00000000004 (Spain), X00000000002 (Germany), Z00000000009 (Belgium), X00000000002 (Germany), S00000000007 (Italy), P00000000001 (Netherlands), and S00000000007 (Italy).

All are specimen number 1290, and each carries the signature for Willem F. Duisenberg. Wim Duisenberg (1935-2005) was a high profile Dutch politician and economist who became President of the European Central Bank in 1998, serving a term of five years.

“This is an astonishing uncirculated complete set of this very rare first issue of Euro specimens, even more unusual with matching specimen number and in uncirculated EPQ grades,” said Noonans' Banknote Specialist, Ted Edmunds. “The 200 Euros is the joint finest known on the PMG population report, a truly breathtaking set of banknotes!”

The estimate is £24,000-30,000.