100 dollars 1973 specimen

Common. While this is a 1973 specimen note, specimen notes from established central banks like Barbados were typically produced in moderate quantities for distribution to banks, government institutions, and numismatic collections. The eBay market data indicates a PMG 68 specimen sold for $290 in 2017, with catalog values around $480 for UNC examples—prices consistent with uncommon but not rare material. The note's catalog status (Pick-35s) with multiple variants (P-35, P-35Bs, P-35s) in PMG population records suggests adequate surviving examples. Specimen notes are generally more available than their circulating counterparts due to careful preservation and institutional holdings.

Issued in 1973 by the Central Bank of Barbados, this note commemorates Sir Grantley Adams, a pivotal figure in Barbadian independence and governance. The reverse features Trafalgar Square (now National Heroes Square) in Bridgetown, reflecting the nation's cultural and civic identity during the post-independence period. This specimen note documents the design and security standards established during an important consolidation period for Barbados's monetary authority.

The obverse features a formal portrait of Sir Grantley Adams positioned on the right side, rendered in fine engraved detail typical of De la Rue's security printing. The Barbados coat of arms occupies the left-center position, displaying a shield with the national motto 'PRIDE AND INDUSTRY' on a banner beneath. The reverse depicts Trafalgar Square (National Heroes Square) in Bridgetown, presented as a Gothic or Victorian-style architectural landmark with surrounding palm trees and tropical vegetation, emphasizing Barbados's colonial heritage and cultural landmarks. The note employs an intricate system of guilloche patterns, geometric designs, and fine-line engraving throughout to enhance security. Serial numbers appear in the format E1000000 on both sides, with multiple denomination indicators positioned at corners and edges. The specimen note includes an intentionally blank circular medallion on the reverse where a secondary portrait would normally appear on circulating versions.

Front Side: 'CENTRAL BANK OF BARBADOS' — Central Bank of Barbados; '$100' / 'ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS' — One hundred dollars (denomination); 'SIR GRANTLEY ADAMS' — Sir Grantley Adams (portrait identification); 'THESE NOTES ARE LEGAL TENDER FOR THE PAYMENT OF ANY AMOUNT' — These notes are legal tender for the payment of any amount; 'GOVERNOR' — Governor (signature line); 'E1000000' — Serial number; 'SPECIMEN' — Specimen (overprint). Back Side: '$100' / 'One Hundred Dollars' — One hundred dollars (denomination, appearing upper left and lower left); 'SPECIMEN' — Specimen (overprint); 'Central Bank of Barbados' — Central Bank of Barbados; 'DE LA RUE' — De La Rue (printer's mark).

This specimen note was produced using intaglio (recess) engraving, the standard security printing method employed by Thomas De la Rue & Company, London. The technique is evidenced by the fine, detailed line work visible in the portrait of Sir Grantley Adams, the architectural rendering of Trafalgar Square, and the complex guilloche and geometric security patterns throughout the design. De la Rue's signature appears on the reverse as 'DE LA RUE,' confirming the printer. The red diagonal 'SPECIMEN' overprint was applied as an additional security and identification measure for this non-circulating specimen.

This note is cataloged as Pick-35s (specimen variety). The primary identifying feature of this specific Pick number is the absence of the small seahorse-shaped face-to-back security device, distinguishing it from Pick-35B which includes this feature. The note carries the signature of C. Blackman (Governor). Related varieties exist in Pick-41 and Pick-45 with different signatures. Later issues (Pick-52, 53, 59, 65, 71) feature larger, non-underlayed numerals in the upper left. The serial number prefix 'E' followed by 1000000 identifies this as a specimen (standard specimen numbering convention). The red diagonal 'SPECIMEN' overprint and blank portrait medallion on the reverse confirm the specimen designation.