As part of its 1926 issue of banknotes, the Hong Kong & Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) produced, in 1926, 1929, and 1935, a one dollar banknote which features allegorical women on front and back. The front of this banknote features a helmeted woman at left, and the back of the banknote features an allegorical woman with a torch at center. This is a beautiful banknote, which is becoming more and more scarce on eBay, even the latest issue printed in 1935 (which is by far the most common issue on eBay). I managed to get this one for $20.50.

Hong Kong p172c: $1 from 1935 (HSBC banknote)

These notes used to sell for a buck apiece not too long ago, and now some are selling for $20+ on eBay. I wanted to add one to my collection before it was too late, and I managed to get my hands on this Hong Kong 1958 one dollar bill featuring Queen Elizabeth II for $4.25, which is a decent deal in VF condition now-a-days. Not particularly pretty, but this goes back to what I said about investing in bills with portraits of royalty, especially from their younger years. Anyways, check it out:

Its in bad shape, but I have purchased a Hong Kong one dollar bill featuring King George the sixth. This banknote can be found in several colors: green, blue, and purple. There are also similar banknotes featuring King George the fifth and Queen Elizabeth II.

Here’s mine:

Until not too long ago, it seemed as though all Hong Kong money was nearly worthless, with the rare exception of an uncirculated note with a high denomination, such as $500. As of late, however, I have noticed that many banknotes, particularly $50 and $100 bills from the 70′s and 80′s selling for a pretty buck. The strange thing, however, is that eBay auctions seem to be a hit-and-miss story. Some of these notes sell for good money, while others do not, and condition seems to have only a small effect on the auction. Regardless, one thing is becoming apparent: the number of $100 bills from Hong Kong is dwindling on eBay. These notes are getting bought up pretty quick and, occasionally, for good money. If you can get your hands on a $50, $100 or especially $500 (rare) from the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation in VF or better condition, I would suggest picking them up as a future investment.

I managed to pick up this note for a mere $14.99 USD!

Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) $100 dollars from 1981