1945 Ethiopia 500 Dollars Banknote Specimen PMG 67 EPQ Pick-17s1 Rare Superb Gem UNC

1945 Ethiopia 500 Dollars Banknote Specimen PMG 67 EPQ Pick-17s1 Rare Superb Gem UNC

This Ethiopia 500 Dollars Specimen banknote (ND 1945, Pick #17s1) is a rare and remarkable issue from the State Bank of Ethiopia, printed by the Security Banknote Company (SBNC). Graded PMG 67 EPQ Superb Gem Uncirculated, it is among the finest examples available of this short-lived and prestigious denomination.

Design and Features:

• Obverse: Portrait of Emperor Haile Selassie I in military attire at left, symbolizing Ethiopia’s resilience and sovereignty after the Italian occupation. The central vignette depicts the iconic Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa, a national symbol of faith and independence.

• Reverse: A finely detailed engraving of the Lion of Judah, the traditional imperial emblem of Ethiopia, crowned and bearing a cross-topped flag. The intricate guilloche patterns and ornamental borders add to the note’s beauty and complexity.

• Printed with “SPECIMEN” overprints in red and serial number AA000000, along with cancellation perforations, confirming its use as a specimen rather than circulation currency.

Historical Significance:
Issued in 1945, this note reflects Ethiopia’s post–World War II resurgence under Emperor Haile Selassie I. The high denomination of 500 Dollars highlights the importance of the Ethiopian currency system at the time, which remained anchored in strong imperial imagery and national pride. Due to their limited printing and distribution, specimen notes such as this are far scarcer than their issued counterparts.

Collector’s Value:
PMG-graded Superb Gem Uncirculated 67 EPQ examples are extraordinarily desirable, combining rarity, pristine preservation, and exquisite artistry. For collectors of African, specimen, or world banknotes, this note represents a true centerpiece—an opportunity to own one of Ethiopia’s most prestigious and elusive banknote issues.