Description and research notes
The 1985 one hundred dollars note represents the final chapter of New Zealand’s traditional paper currency for its highest denomination, issued within the ND (1985–1989) period under the authority of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and bearing the signature of S.T. Russell as Chief Cashier. This series marks the last fully developed paper format before the transition to polymer, preserving the culmination of decades of engraving, layout refinement, and security evolution.
Printed by Bradbury, Wilkinson & Company, Limited, the note showcases the mature design language established in the earlier decimal issues and carried into its final form. The obverse features the refined portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, executed with precise intaglio engraving, while the paper incorporates the Captain James Cook watermark, maintaining continuity with the national identity themes embedded in New Zealand’s currency.
The visual structure is defined by a rich crimson-dominant palette supported by multitone guilloche patterns, layered linework, and balanced geometric symmetry. These elements reflect the high technical standard of Bradbury Wilkinson’s late-period production, where engraving depth, tonal transitions, and micro-pattern complexity were fully optimized.
Serial YAB369567 places this note firmly within the issued circulation range, representing the functional counterpart to the specimen formats of the same Russell signature series. Together with overprint and perforated specimen types, issued notes such as this illustrate the complete lifecycle of design approval, production control, and public release within the Reserve Bank’s framework.
Graded PMG 66 EPQ Gem Uncirculated, the note stands at a high level of preservation, retaining full originality, strong embossing, and exceptional visual clarity. It represents the peak condition level commonly encountered for this series and exemplifies the final generation of New Zealand’s paper hundred-dollar notes before the technological shift to polymer substrates.