Featured Note of the Month: September 2019

New Zealand, Reserve Bank, Pick# 194a, 2015-16, 50 Dollars, front PMG graded 69 Superb Gem Uncirculated EPQ Click image to enlarge.

New Zealand, Reserve Bank, Pick# 194a, 2015-16, 50 Dollars, back PMG graded 69 Superb Gem Uncirculated EPQ Click image to enlarge.

Country: New Zealand
Catalog Number: Pick# 194
Date: 2016
Denomination: 50 Dollars
Varieties: None

What makes it special? This 50-dollar note is part of New Zealand’s “Brighter Money” series that was released in 2015 and 2016. The people and motifs remain the same as the previous issue, but with enhancements to the design and the addition of more sophisticated security features. The front of this note depicts Āpirana Ngata, a prominent Māori statesman known for his work in support of Māori culture and language.

Why is it interesting now? September 9-15 is Māori Language Week in New Zealand. This week has been marked every year since 1975 as part of initiative to revive and promote the use of the Māori language in the country. This year’s theme is 'Kia Kaha te Reo Māori' which means 'Let’s make the Māori language strong.'

Did you know? September 14 is Māori Language Day, which commemorates the presentation of the Māori Language Petition to parliament on that date in 1972. The petition, which drew over 30,000 signatures, called for the government to offer Māori classes in schools. Since then, Māori has gained greater visibility in the culture of New Zealand and advocacy for its revival continues. It was made an official language of New Zealand in 1987.

Total graded by PMG: 145

PMG median grade: The median grade for these notes is 67 EPQ.

PMG highest graded: 69 EPQ

Sales highlights: This note can be found on eBay for around $50 raw.

PMG Registry Champion: This note is part of several sets in the Registry, including: New Zealand Complete, New Zealand Polymer Issues, New Zealand Dollar Issues, and New Zealand Series 7 Issue

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