1000 Rupees

Stunning Princely States Artist EssayINDIA - PRINCELY STATES. Hyderabad. 1000 Rupees, ND. P-P-UNL. Uncirculated.This marvelous Artist Essay exudes everything collectible about Indian paper money. This stunning piece is hand drawn and painted on thick Waterlow & Sons card stock. At the bottom right, on the matted card stock, a significantly embossed, circular and desirable Waterlow & Sons Specimen seal is stamped.This rarity is adorned by the 5 languages of Kannada, Marathi, Urdu, Telugu and English signifying the denomination. This initial design, is likely unique as it is not the same as the issued version, P-S267, which features the Hyderabad seals at the top corners of the note instead of on each side of the vignette of The Charminar under the Star and Crescent Moon at center.The most striking difference between this artist's proposed design and the issued note, is the absence of The Charminar. This monument and mosque in Hyderabad, Teleganda was constructed on the bank of the Musi River in 1591. The name Charminar translates to Four Towers, a fitting name when staring at the structures extravagant minarets. The symmetric architectural marvel also features four giant archways. As one of the most visited and recognizable structures in India, it's widely accepted that the purpose of the monument was to be at the cities center, and signify the eradication of the plague. There are in fact many other theories, and explanations as to why it was built ranging from celebrating the Second Islamic Millennium, and a tale where one historian believes Qutb Shah constructed the Charminar because it was where he first saw his Queen. However, many established historians have stated that is false, even though in some circles that story is still shared today. When it is all said and done, it cannot be argued that this version of the 1000 Rupees design is more desirable from a visual perspective, than the actual issued note. Even though the issued notes are extremely rare, they lack the beauty and cultural significance that is presented in this unique piece.Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000.Uncirculated.