Considered the holy grail of rare currency, the “Grand Watermelon” banknote surpasses all others in value and exclusivity. The Top Five Most Beautiful currencies In The World
Characterized by its unique design featuring oversized green zeros resembling watermelons, this highly sought-after note has become the pinnacle of collectible banknotes. Zimbabwe Is The Country With The Most Worthless Currency
Here’s the story behind the creation of the Grand Watermelon.
In 1890, the $1,000 “Grand Watermelon” Treasury Note was issued as part of a series meant to facilitate large-scale financial transactions for banks and other institutions, rather than for individual use.
Today, only seven “Grand Watermelon” $1,000 Treasury Notes remain, making them exceptionally rare.
Most of these notes are held by institutions, with just three located in private hands.
Collectors highly value this note due to its rarity and significance as one of the earliest high-denomination currency notes in the U.S.
Additionally, these Treasury Notes, also referred to as “coin notes,” could be exchanged for either gold or silver, adding to their uniqueness.
This was a period when discussions surrounding the gold and silver standards were shaping U.S. monetary policy.
Originally designed for large financial transactions, the $1,000 Grand Watermelon note was too cumbersome for everyday use.
Today, its rarity and distinctive design have rendered it highly coveted by collectors.
On January 10, 2014, it set a record at Heritage Auctions (USA), selling for $3.29 million (£2.6 million), the highest price ever paid for a banknote at auction.
This exceptional rarity has cemented its status as one of the world’s most valuable and sought-after currency notes, transcending its practical purpose to become a prized collector’s item.