Description and research notes
The 1985 one hundred dollars specimen represents one of the most complex and information-rich specimen formats produced during the final paper-currency era of New Zealand, issued within the ND (1985–1989) period under the signature of S.T. Russell as Chief Cashier. This series marks the closing stage of the traditional engraved paper hundreds before the transition to polymer.
Printed by Bradbury, Wilkinson & Company, Limited, this specimen combines multiple control and validation features rarely seen together on a single note. The central design carries a bold black 'SPECIMEN' overprint applied horizontally, distinguishing it from earlier red-overprint formats. In addition, a second black 'SPECIMEN' marking appears at right, alongside a third printed specimen designation integrated near the lower left serial area, creating a multi-point overprint system across the design.
Two oval control stamps are present, both reading 'SPECIMEN DE LA RUE & CO LTD NO VALUE', applied in red ink at separate positions on the note. These stamps represent an additional layer of validation, linking the specimen handling process to established control practices associated with De La Rue distribution frameworks.
A single round punch-hole cancellation is positioned through the central lower area of the design, functioning as a physical invalidation method. The note also carries Serial YAC000000 and is identified as Specimen No. 004, confirming its placement within a controlled and numbered specimen sequence.
Across the top margin, multiple handwritten annotations are visible, including dated notations and numerical references, indicating review, tracking, and approval stages within the production process. These annotations provide direct evidence of internal handling and evaluation, documenting the note’s passage through production control checkpoints.
The design retains the full issued layout, featuring the engraved portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and the Captain James Cook watermark embedded within the paper. The multitone guilloche structure and rich crimson palette reflect the refined engraving standards of Bradbury Wilkinson’s late paper production.
As a specimen combining black overprints, dual oval control stamps, punch-hole cancellation, serial control formatting, and handwritten production annotations, this note represents a layered and highly documented example of specimen handling methodology at the end of New Zealand’s paper currency era.
Graded PMG 58 Choice About Uncirculated, the note maintains full design clarity and strong visual presence. The coexistence of multiple validation systems and annotation layers defines it as a uniquely detailed archival specimen within the New Zealand decimal series.