Rare Bank of Hamilton $20 Note with ‘C’ Overprint Headlines Premier Auction

Colonial Acres Coins’ highly anticipated Fall Premier Numismatic Auction, Sale No. 123, promises a treasure trove of rare and valuable collectibles. Among the 1,700 lots available, a remarkable set of Bank of Hamilton $20 and $50 notes has captured significant attention, particularly for its historical and numismatic significance.

Expanded Auction Format Reflects Growing Interest

In response to the surge in submissions and rising interest among collectors, Colonial Acres Coins has extended the auction to three days. Traditionally a two-day event, the auction will now run from September 6 to 8, coinciding with the National Postage Stamp and Coin Show at the Hilton Mississauga in Ontario.

“This auction continues the tradition with many scarce items that will definitely attract active bidding,” says Todd Sandham, co-owner of Colonial Acres Coins.

A Closer Look at the Bank of Hamilton Notes

The centerpiece of the auction, featured as Lots 787 and 788, includes two exceptional Bank of Hamilton notes. The standout is a $20 note with a rare “C” overprint, listed as Lot 787.

“The $20 note is the rare ‘C’ overprint example where the registry only has a population of one in VG-8,” explains Sandham. “The note up for sale, graded F-15 by PMG, is the highest grade known.”

This note carries a pre-sale estimate of $20,000 and showcases some imperfections, including a seven-millimeter tear on the bottom margin and a pinhole in the “0” of the large “20” on the left. Despite these flaws, its rarity and condition make it a sought-after item among collectors.

Meanwhile, the $50 note (Lot 788) is another test note with a “C” overprint. Graded VF-20 by PMG, it has a pre-sale estimate of $15,000, reflecting its scarcity and appeal to serious numismatists.

Enthusiasm Grows for Canadian Key Dates and High-Grade Notes

The auction underscores a growing enthusiasm for rare Canadian banknotes, particularly those with scarce key dates and high grades. “The prices realized for rarer notes and coins have been pushing the market to new highs,” Sandham notes.

Other Highlights from the Auction

In addition to the Bank of Hamilton notes, collectors can look forward to Lot 825, which features the highest-graded Bank of Toronto $20 note ever discovered.

“This rare Bank of Toronto $20 note has a population of only three known examples in the registry,” says Sandham. “The newly discovered note will become No. 4 in the registry.”

Graded VF-25, this note is also the highest known grade in the registry, with a pre-sale estimate of $20,000.

A Must-Attend Event for Collectors

Colonial Acres Coins’ Fall Premier Auction represents a golden opportunity for collectors to acquire some of Canada’s rarest and most valuable numismatic treasures. With three days of bidding and a diverse array of offerings, this event is set to attract widespread interest and fierce competition.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of numismatics, the auction provides an unparalleled chance to own a piece of Canada’s monetary history.

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