The words “Charity” and “Bank” are hardly synonymous but the first sale devoted entirely to Irish banknotes by UK specialist auctioneers Dix Noonan Webb in London on March 12 will include 120 lots from the archive of AIB (formerly the First Trust Bank) to be sold in aid of charity. There are around 200 other lots from various other sources. The archive includes proofs, specimens and high grade issued notes from the Provincial Bank, AIB and First Trust Bank. Among the most prized lots are four uncut sheets of 35 First Trust Bank £10 proofs from the 1994-96 issue estimated at £2,000-2,600 and three uncut sheets of 24 First Trust £100 dating from March 1, 1996 (£1,500-2,000).
Adrian Moynihan, Head of AIB (NI) said: “With a long and proud history of supporting the Northern Ireland community, AIB is delighted to bring forward for auction its banknote archive in the hope and anticipation that it will raise significant money for two local charities.” Proceeds will be split between Age Northern Ireland and the Alzheimer’s Society.
Prime lots from other sources include a rare and attractive high denomination Bank of Ireland £20, dating from November 1915, which is expected to make £3,000-£3,600. The auction will be preceded on March 11 by A sale of Irish Coins and Medals at Dix Noonan Webb which includes an extremely rare Free State (1921-1937) Proof Florin from 1934.
