Collection: The Pearl of the Orient: Old Banknotes that Tell the Story of Macau

Explore Macanese Notaphily: A Legacy from Portugal and China

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Macanese banknotes , where each vintage note reflects the transition from Portuguese colonialism to the Chinese Special Administrative Region in 1999, and the vibrant cultural fusion of Macau. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our collection of vintage Macau banknotes , meticulously curated for both seasoned collectors and new buyers passionate about the monetary heritage of this peninsula in the South China Sea. Vintage Macau banknotes are more than just paper money: they are relics that chronicle the introduction of the Macanese pataca in 1905, issued by the National Overseas Bank (BNU), symbolizing the economic sovereignty of an enclave that transitioned from Portuguese colony to Chinese Special Administrative Region.

The Evolution of Old Banknotes of Macau: From the Colonial Pataca to the SAR Pataca

Before 1905, Macau used the Portuguese real and the Mexican rupee . In 1905, the Banco Nacional Ultramarino , founded in 1901, introduced the Macanese pataca (MOP), divided into 100 avos. The first old 1-pataca banknotes , issued in 1906, featured the Portuguese coat of arms and the Guia lighthouse. In 1981, the Instituto Emissor de Macau (IEM) was founded, launching series with Chinese motifs such as the dragon. Following the return to China in 1999, the Autoridade Monetária de Macau (AMCM) assumed issuance in 2000. The current series (2005–present) includes polymer in some denominations.

Rare Antique Banknotes from Macau: Jewels of Luso-Asian Notaphily

Our collection highlights rare antique banknotes from Macau , such as:

BNU Series 1906-1940 : the 10 patacas of 1929 with the shield and the A-Ma temple.

1944 Series (Japanese occupation) : the 5 patacas of 1944 with Japanese overprint.

IEM Series 1981 : the 100 patacas of 1981 with the Chinese dragon and the Bank of China.

Printing errors : banknotes with duplicate serial numbers or without a watermark.

For enthusiasts of Portuguese-Asian banknotes , we offer exclusive pieces such as the 1906 1 pataca note featuring the lighthouse and junk, and the last 1,000 pataca note from 1999 commemorating the return to China. These vintage banknotes incorporate advanced security features (especially in later series): metallic thread, lotus watermark, optically variable ink, and microtext. The rarity of the 1906 BNU issues and the last 1999 (transitional) notes makes them highly sought after at international auctions, valued for their connection to colonial history and reunification.

Preservation and Authenticity of Old Banknotes: Our Promise

Conservation is paramount in our selection of antique Macau banknotes . Each piece is graded on standard scales such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), preserving details like watermarks with the A-Ma temple, fluorescent fibers, and signatures of the BNU or AMCM. We recommend that collectors of rare antique banknotes verify their integrity under UV light, where elements like the dragon will glow in shades of yellow or green. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , all our pieces come from verified sources, avoiding common forgeries found in BNU-era replicas.

Why Collect Old Macau Banknotes

From the 10 patacas note of 1929, featuring the coat of arms and A-Ma, to the 100 patacas note of 1981 with the dragon and the Bank, this collection offers a window into Macanese history: colonialism, occupation, and reunification. Each vintage banknote reflects key moments, such as the founding of the National Bank of the United Nations (BNU) in 1901 or the return of Macanese currency in 1999. For new collectors , it's an entry point into Portuguese-Asian collecting; for experienced collectors , it's a chance to acquire complete series that enrich any collection.

Trust Iberoamericana Banknotes

At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we guarantee the authenticity of every antique banknote with detailed certificates and expertise in Ibero-American and Asian numismatics. We offer pieces in optimal condition for your collectible collection and secure, discreet international shipping to any destination. Trust our authority to elevate your passion for antique Macau banknotes to new heights.