100 yuan 1936

Common. While this is a pre-communist Chinese banknote with historical significance, eBay market data shows consistent circulation of graded examples ranging from $25-$300 depending on grade, with UNC specimens selling in the $60-$75 range historically. The presence of multiple sales across various grades and years (from 2010-2025) indicates adequate supply in the collector market. Notes routinely available at these price points are classified as common in numismatic terms, regardless of historical interest.

Issued during the tumultuous late Republican period of China, this 1936 note was produced by the Central Bank of China during the Second Sino-Japanese War era, a time of significant political and economic instability. The reverse's depiction of traditional Chinese imperial pageantry and ceremonial processions reflects the nationalist government's effort to legitimize its authority through historical and cultural continuity. The English-language inscriptions and Western security printing techniques (undertaken by Chung Hwa Book Company) demonstrate the Republic of China's engagement with international banking standards during this transitional period.

The obverse features Sun Yat-sen (SYS), founder of the Republic of China, depicted in formal profile within a circular medallion framed by ornamental borders of classical Chinese design. The note employs a pale green base with intricate geometric and floral border patterns. A prominent decorative bronze vessel or ritual urn (possibly a censer or ceremonial vessel from Chinese antiquity) occupies the right side, rendered in yellow, pink, blue, and green highlights, symbolizing China's imperial heritage. The reverse showcases a complex historical scene featuring officials and dignitaries in traditional robes participating in a formal imperial or state ceremony, with traditional Chinese architecture featuring curved roof tiles visible in the architectural elements above. Multiple corner ornaments display the numeral '10', and a large circular emblem at center integrates both Chinese characters and the denomination.

FRONT: '中央銀行' (Central Bank), '中華民國十二年' (Republic of China Year 12, corresponding to 1936 in the Republican calendar), Serial number F497276. BACK: 'THE CENTRAL BANK OF CHINA', 'NATIONAL CURRENCY', '1937', Denomination '10', Serial number F497276, 'GENERAL MANAGER', 'GOVERNOR', 'CHUNG HWA BOOK CO LTD' (printer's mark).

Intaglio engraving (line engraving/copperplate printing), as evidenced by the fine, detailed line work throughout both sides, intricate border patterns, and sophisticated multi-element composition. The printer is credited as Chung Hwa Book Company Limited (and catalog data indicates W&S involvement). Security features include elaborate engraved background patterns, repeated geometric motifs, and fine detail work characteristic of high-security currency production of the 1930s era.

Pick-220a designation indicates this is variety 'a' of the 1936 Central Bank of China 100 yuan issue. The visual analysis confirms SYS watermark and purple signature elements noted in catalog data. Serial number F497276 is visible on both sides, suggesting standard production sequence. No overprints or emergency variations are apparent. The note's consistent coloring (olive-green and dark brown on multicolor) and standard design match cataloged specifications for this specific variety.