5,000 złoty banknote, 1919, Series A prototype, banknote number: 268335
The highest denomination in the entire 1919 złoty issue, the only one known to exist exclusively as a proof. This proof, intended for foreign banks, features the word "WZÓR" printed diagonally on both sides (23 mm high), between two parallel lines, and the inscription “Bez wartości” (“No Value”) appearing twice on each side of the banknote, all in red. Serial number: 268335.
A variant of this design (with raised printing) is known from 44 different pieces (out of a total of 67 known designs); however , the piece offered in this auction has never been recorded, and there is no information about it in M. Biskup’s study*
A beautiful piece, confirmed by a high PMG grading score. These banknotes are graded exceptionally strictly by PMG; obtaining an UNC grade of 64 (as with the banknote in this auction) is extremely difficult—such a condition grade is awarded only to outstanding pieces of physical condition.
References: Miłczak 56Wa, Lucow 601, listing the rarity grade as R5
*The number of known pieces of each design is based on Michał Biskup’s study “Banknotes: My Passion,” Issue No. III, Kielce 2025
