Extreme Banknotes
China 10 Yuan 1941 Bank of Communications P-159
China 10 Yuan 1941 Bank of Communications P-159
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This original 1941 Chinese 10 Yuan banknote serves as a fascinating, tactile window into a tumultuous era of world history. Issued by the historic Bank of Communications during World War II (Year 30 of the Republic of China), it captures a resilient nation enduring global conflict while holding onto its vision of modern progress.
Beautifully produced by the Dah Tung Book Company in Hong Kong, the design juxtaposes powerful industrial machinery on the front against classic geometry on the back. Having actually passed through the hands of people living through wartime East Asia, this note feels incredibly grounded and real. It is a wonderful addition for any numismatist who values authentic historical character over crisp, untouched paper.
📜 History & Significance
By 1941, the Second Sino-Japanese War and WWII were heavily impacting China's economy. The Bank of Communications, which originally launched in 1908, continued operating under extreme wartime pressures. This issue proudly displays a passenger steam train, an emblem of industrial development, infrastructure, and national connectivity during a time when the country’s transport networks were of critical strategic importance.
🔍 Technical Features
- Country: China (Republic of China)
- Issuing Authority: Bank of Communications (交通銀行)
- Type: Standard circulation banknoteCurrency: Yuan (1912-1948)
- Material: Banknote paper
- Dimensions: Roughly 162 × 80 mm
- Printer: Dah Tung Book Co. (大東書局有限公司), Hong Kong
🎨 Design Details
- Obverse (Front): A rich, classical multi-colored layout prominently featuring a detailed engraving of a classic steam passenger train traveling along the tracks. Traditional Chinese geometric security borders protect the bold denomination text.
- Reverse (Back): A highly symmetric design showcasing intricate, looping geometric security patterns (guilloches) framing the clear English denomination values.
Condition Description
- Grade: Fine (F)
- Details: This bill is an honest, circulated piece of history. It exhibits typical wear for its age, including visible vertical and horizontal folds, handling creases, minor corner rounding, and some natural softening of the paper. There are no massive, distracting tears or heavy ink stains, making it an excellent, affordable historic survivor. Please note: Serial numbers will vary from the listing image, but your banknote is guaranteed to accurately match or exceed this Fine grading standard.
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Serial Number Disclaimer
Actual serial numbers on banknotes vary from piece to piece. The serial shown in product photos may not match the banknote you receive, but all items are guaranteed authentic and graded as described.
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CONDITION GUIDE
Gem Uncirculated
A note that is flawless, with the same freshness, crispness and bright color as when first printed. It
must be perfectly centered, with full margins, and free of any marks, blemishes or traces of handling.
About Uncirculated
A bright, crisp note that appears new but upon close examination shows a trace of very light use, such as a corner fold or faint crease. 'About Uncirculated' is a borderline condition, applied to a note which may not be quite uncirculated, but yet is obviously better than an average Extra Fine note. Such notes command a price only slightly below a new note and are highly desirable.
Extra Fine
A note that shows some faint evidence of circulation, although it will still be bright and retain nearly full crispness. It may have two or three minor folds or creases but no tears or stains and no discolorations.
Very Fine
A note that has been in circulation, but not actively or for long. It still retains some crispness and is still choice enough in its condition to be altogether desirable. It may show folds or creases, or some light smudges from the hands of a past generation. Sometimes, Very Fine notes are the best available in certain rare issues, and they should accordingly be cherished just as much as uncirculated notes.
Fine
A fine note shows evidence of much more circulation, has lost its crispness and very fine detail, and creases are more pronounced, although the note is still not seriously soiled or stained.
SHIPPING
Tracking information will be provided!
Your banknote will be packaged between two sturdy pieces of cardboard to safeguard its condition during transit, guaranteeing it arrives to you exactly as described. Should you have any inquiries, please don't hesitate to reach out - we're here to assist you!