Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Forgotten Treasure

When I shared my mail and book sale goodies the other day, I forgot to tell you about my great find at the Briggs Auction a couple of weeks ago.  There were two boxes of old bank notes for sale, and I had my eye on them from the time I entered the building. 
But when the first box went up for auction--a box of old German bank notes--it sold for at least $60 (I forget how much exactly, but I know it was more than I was willing to pay).  My heart fell and I accepted defeat, but then the second box of mixed banknotes went up, my husband bid on it, and we were able to get it for an acceptable amount!

Inside is a mix of old money from countries as diverse as India, Egypt, Spain, Germany, Poland, Italy, Turkey, USSR, Pakistan, Belgium, and Brazil.  Some are tattered, torn, and taped, while others are in such perfect condition that they don't look real at all.  I was noticing how many of the bills feature delightful portraits of political and cultural leaders, or symbolic figures.
My husband is thinking that he perhaps he should do a little research into their value before I start turning them into collages!  I'm not sure I can wait much longer, though....

9 comments:

lee said...

I love old money, I have my grandfathers that he got when he was in ww11, german, italian, I plan to do something with them, just dont know what, I did reasearch first to ensure I wasnt throwing away millions, but I wasnt

Parabolic Muse said...

I love these so much! I always want them, but then when I see prices, I decide not to.
Congrats to you!
I was lucky enough to get my first watercolor set, so I'm happy!

Rhonda Halushka said...

Maybe scan the ones you want to use and use the scans?
Thanks for stopping by my blog earlier!

Janet said...

Oh, what a treasure trove of goodies! I love old money...I have a few pieces of Japanese money from WWII.

Caatje said...

Oh how lovely! I'm not sure what to hope for: that they are pretty worthless so you can use them in collage or that they are worth a lot so you can buy more goodies for even more collages! Until then: copying or scanning seems to be the way to go. Enjoy!

Joyfulploys said...

Hi Andria...your journal has made its way to me now. Wow! you scored with the old money. Maybe your hubby will let you used the torn and tattered bills? Have a great weekend!
Mary

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Unknown said...

What a wonderful find, bet you can make good use of it - as long as you don't find out it is too valuable.

Terrie said...

You lucky dog! These are amazing and I can't wait to see bits and pieces show up here and there :)