Generally I am not a big fan of United States paper money, nor can I afford most of the banknotes that appeal to me, but I have recently purchased a few American banknotes, because my collection of paper money from the United States is almost totally limited to military payment certificates. Newer issues of US banknotes are pretty dull, in my opinion, and seldom catch my attention. But, because of its worn condition, I have recently purchased United States pick 188, which is a $2 bill featuring Thomas Jefferson at left, and the Capitol at right, complete with horsemen and high-society walking along the lawn. I’d complain about the torn corner, but its probably the only reason I could afford the note!

United States p188: 2 Dollars from 1917 featuring Jefferson

I have recently purchased a Canadian banknote from 1917. It is a one dollar bill featuring the portrait of Princess Patricia Ramsey (Princess of Connaught) at center on the face side of the banknote. Generally Canadian banknotes are dominated by portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and King’s George VI and George V. Generally, these banknotes are valued at slightly above face value, except in UNC condition. This banknote, however, features royalty that even Canadian’s don’t recognize, which makes them very interesting articles, and great investments. This one is in VG-F condition, and was purchased for $33.00.

Canada 32d: $1 from 1917

On eBay, Bulgaria’s most common issue of paper money is the 1951 issue featuring 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 500 leva. However, these banknotes are nearly worthless, even in uncirculated condition. However, if you purchase any bulk lots off of eBay, you will end up with several of these, for obvious reasons. Hence, any of these notes, and many since that date, are not particularly valuable or sought after. But some notes from the previous issues are both valuable and interesting — what makes them remarkable is the fact that these notes, mostly due to the stigma surrounding the 1951 issue, are often available for peanuts. Many auctions go without a single bid, so oftentimes one can buy these notes for the starting bid price.

Recently I came across a seller from Bulgaria, who was auctioning off many old notes from Bulgaria. True, most of the older notes were quite beat up, but this was a varied collection of seldom seen notes from Bulgaria, most of which I bought for $0.99 apiece, which was the auction starting price. Perhaps my favorite, this 50 Leva Zlatni is the Bulgarian equivalent of Gold Certificates. I got this note for $0.99USD, and many others like it for the same price. Keep your eyes open for these notes if you’re hoping to expand your collection on a limited budget.

Bulgaria 50 Leva Zlatni from 1917 (p24b)