Paper Money, Scripophily and Banking Histrory

Ottoman Bill of Exchange Constantinople 1778 - Payable Amsterdam 3000 Florins

The auction will start in __ days and __ hours

Start price: $200

Buyer's premium:

Description

Date: August 13, 1778

Amount: 3,000 florins
Payee: Sig. Rovo Fratelli
Endorsement: Jean André Henry & Co.
Issuer: Stefano d’Isay & Co., Amsterdam
Condition: Excellent preservation for its age with visible signatures and text clarity.

Stefano d’Isay was one of the most prominent Greek merchants and bankers in Amsterdam during the late 18th century. His firm played a key role in financing trade and acting as a commissioner for Greek merchants based in Smyrna (Izmir). The attached historical snippet confirms his involvement in the Greek trading network and his importance in the European financial scene.


D’Isay’s firm facilitated the issuance and negotiation of bills of exchange — critical instruments for international trade at the time. These bills are not just financial documents but also historical evidence of Greek commercial influence in Amsterdam and Smyrna.