Rare 1924 $5 Queen Mary Note and Victorian 50-Cent Brockage to Headline Upcoming Auction

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A newly discovered 1924 $5 Queen Mary banknote, bearing the exceptionally low serial number A000002, is set to be a highlight at an upcoming numismatic auction. This note, certified as Extremely Uncirculated 58 (EU58), has remained unseen in the market since its printing over a century ago, having been preserved in a private collection for approximately 100 years. Its pristine condition and unique serial number position it as a significant piece in Canadian paper money history.
Another standout item in the auction is a rare Victorian-era 50-cent brockage error coin. This particular coin was last sold in the 1970s and is now being offered publicly for the first time in five decades. A brockage error occurs when a freshly struck coin adheres to the die, imprinting a mirror-image design onto the next blank planchet. Consequently, one side of the coin displays the correct design, while the other features a reversed, indented impression. Such errors are uncommon in Canadian coinage, and their occurrence on Victorian-era silver 50-cent pieces is exceedingly rare, making this coin a coveted item for advanced collectors.
The auction will also feature a 1920 Hudson’s Bay Company gold service medal, struck in 15-karat gold and awarded to a staff member of the historic firm. This medal is considered a significant piece of Hudson’s Bay memorabilia, especially given the company's recent closure in 2025. Additionally, the sale includes a selection of Canadian tokens and medals, such as early coronation medals and a rare Prince of Wales school medal awarded to Canadian students for academic excellence.
The U.S. coin selection in the auction is notably strong, featuring a nearly complete set of commemorative 50-cent pieces, including the sought-after Hawaiian issue. Other highlights include a 1937-D three-legged buffalo nickel and several key U.S. varieties across various denominations.
Collectors and enthusiasts can preview the full auction listing online and at the Toronto Coin Expo. The event promises to offer a range of rare and historically significant items, appealing to both seasoned collectors and those new to numismatics.