A pair of 2 x 10 zlotych coins from 1794 - SEQUENTIAL NUMBERING - A 33493 / B 33494 - watermark [J HONIG]

A pair of treasury notes from the Kościuszko Uprising, 2x 10 zlotych, 1794, with consecutive series and serial numbers.

* Banknote No. 1 – 10 zlotych 1794 , Series A, serial number: 33493

* Banknote No. 2 – 10 zlotych 1794, Series B, serial number: 33494

Both banknotes are graded by PMG with the following ratings: Series A PMG50, Series B PMG45; both are in very good condition, with clearly visible embossed dry seals. The banknotes are in their natural state, without any conservation treatments. Additionally, what makes this offer even more attractive is that the Series B banknote features the upper portion of the auxiliary watermark [J. HONIG], a Dutch manufacturer of handmade paper that marked its products as “J Honig & Zoonen”— a feature of the banknote that is currently highly valued and sought after by collectors.

After cutting the sheet of 10 zlotych treasury notes into pairs, batches of 2 sets of 500 pieces each were stapled together and bound in canvas in booklets. The banknotes prepared in this way, now in their finished form, were successively (one by one) cut out of the “booklet,” leaving the banknote’s control coupon in the upper part, and were distributed into circulation in this form.

In this auction lot, both banknotes were once cut apart from each other; therefore, when placed side by side, their cutouts fit together perfectly. This is a rare occurrence where these banknotes have survived to this day in such a set and are being offered for auction together. It is not uncommon for such “twin pairs” with matching serial numbers—which have survived to the present day—to have been intentionally separated and sold individually in order to command a higher price.

The condition of both banknotes is confirmed by a PMG grading certificate appropriate to their condition; the Series A banknote has a 1mm tear at the bottom of the left margin—which is noted on the slab.

References: Miłczak A2