Description and research notes
Unissued 6 Skilling Rigsmoent note prepared for the Danish colonial administration in Greenland, dated 1856 and printed in Copenhagen under royal contract. Catalogued as Pick A33r, this is a remainder issue, never signed or released for circulation. It belongs to the earliest organized currency system of Greenland, a period when the island's economy operated almost entirely through the Royal Greenland Trading Department.
The note is printed in two colors: blue Danish script within a red ornamental frame featuring crowned royal monograms and classical floral engravings. The text translates to: 'This note is valid for six skilling Rigsmoent at the trading posts in Greenland. Copenhagen, 1856.' The 6 Skilling denomination represented a minor accounting unit used in Greenland’s trade network, functioning as an internal voucher for furs, fish, and imported goods.
Before Greenland adopted krone-based currency in the early 20th century, its economy relied on a closed credit system tied to Danish commerce. These Skilling notes—issued in denominations from 1 to 96—were part of that structure, designed exclusively for use at colonial trading posts (Handelssteder). Their refined design reflects Denmark’s effort to maintain both fiscal order and royal presence in its Arctic territories.
PMG 64 Choice Uncirculated, with crisp paper and vivid color, this note exemplifies the artistic and logistical discipline of mid-19th century Danish colonial finance, bridging European monetary design with Arctic trade realities.