World Banknote Auctions offers the Varik Collection of Bahamas

For many collectors, the banknotes of the Bahamian Dollar, introduced into circulation in 1965, are a favorite in world paper money. A series that is filled with modern rarities, these banknotes form a formidable challenge, and even though these are often considered “modern” banknotes the series is extremely challenging to complete. This section of the Varik Collection is particularly strong, with high grade notes as well as rare varieties that are seldom offered for sale.

The first series is dated 1965 and was issued by the Government of the Bahamas. This series was initially issued with two signatures. Then in 1967, for a brief period, several denominations were issued with three signatures. These would be issued for only about a year before an updated series dated 1968 was issued by the Bahamas Monetary Authority. The undisputed highlight of the Varik Collection is lot 45315, which is the $50 from this series with three signatures, graded Very Fine 30 EPQ by PMG. One of just three examples of this rarity that we are aware of this note represents one of the key banknotes in a modern Bahamas collection.

Other highlights include various other $50 and $100 notes from the Bahamas. Up to and including the 1996 series notes of those denominations are difficult to locate in uncirculated condition. They were often issued outside of tourist areas (where the US Dollar typically would circulate, thanks to its parity to the Bahamian Dollar) and only limited numbers made it to collectors in uncirculated condition. The Varik Collection includes a 1965 $100 in PMG Choice UNC 63 EPQ (lot 45316), a 1974 (ND 1984) $50 in PMG 66 EPQ (lot 45331) and a 1974 (ND 1992) $100 in PMG 66 EPQ (lot 45333).

Most lower denominations in the Varik Collection are represented by high grade examples that presents collectors with a welcome opportunity to add high quality examples to collections of Bahamian paper money. All lots in the Varik Collection can be seen on the World Banknote Auctions website: The Varik Collection of Bahamas. Live bidding for session 2 takes place on the firm’s website and in its mobile apps on June 29 at 1 PM EDT / 10 AM PDT