The latest version of the paper money collectors website RealBanknotes.com is still under construction. However, lots of progress has been made in the last couple of weeks, and although I can't pin-point a date, I am hoping to have the latest version online soon. It features a much more elaborate database, with updated values, and added functions such as a members section and forums. However, be forewarned: the members section will be ready a few months after the launch of the site. The front-end will be online in the near future, and the back-end ... well ... in the future ;)

However, with the current version we are approaching 1.5 MILLION banknote views. Not bad considering that the site was launched just over a year ago. Anyways, enough pats on the back for myself.

Here is a preview of the new site:

After recently missing an opportunity on a beautiful antique Nicaraguan banknote featuring a farmer plowing his fields with his oxen a new opportunity re-emerged with a similar scene on Turkish paper money. Pick 199a is a 1 Livre banknote from 1926, which is quickly becoming either very expensive or scarce on eBay, and features a man plowing a field using a couple of oxen. I wasn't really looking for this banknote in particular, and it wasn't really a bargain if I use the standard catalog of world paper money as a reference, but I think that it is one of those banknotes that will prove its investment value within a relatively short period of time. This one cost me $50. On the other hand, the lowest Buy It Now price on eBay, for a note in similar condition is $130, so suddenly it doesn't seem like I overpaid!

I know that old banknotes from Peru are not highly values, but their classical depictions of man, woman, and beast are irresistible. Personally, I don't see these ever getting super-valuable, but at a few dollars apiece, many of these notes are attractive purchases both as moderate investments and for collectors value. It always puts a smile on my face when I manage to win a note that is 70+ years old, has a beautiful design, and I can buy for less than the cost of a coffee. Such is the case with this Peruvian banknote: a 10 Soles do Oro (suns of gold!) from 1939. Just a beauty of a note, in the South American style of the time. This one cost me $3.65 and will find a welcome place in my collection!