A test rare, limited edition Di-Faced Tenner note created and personally signed by Banksy, b. 1974? -, originating from the elusive street artist's "million-pound briefcase" project.

In 2006, documentary filmmaker docuBANKSY Dominic Wade wrote to Banksy after witnessing the removal of a piece of his graffiti work. Banksy replied via email, and his former agent and associate Steve Lazarides subsequently sent Wade a parcel containing a Di-Faced Tenner from Banksy's personal collection, which he signed in pencil on the Princess Diana side. The package sent to Wade also contained a copy of Banksy's book, Banging Your Head Against a Wall, and a selection of the artist's stickers, including Petrol Head, Kids with Guns, and Slow Children. A copy of the email from Banksy, as well as the Lazarides Gallery-stamped envelope in which the gifted items came, accompanies the Tenner.

Di-Faced Tenners were released to the public in 2004 when one million pounds' worth was dropped from suitcases at the Notting Hill Carnival, Reading Festival, and Liverpool Street tube station during rush hour. The altered Di-Faced note, a clever play on the word "defaced", looks similar to a traditional Ten Pound Note but has a few subtle differences. The most obvious is a portrait of Lady Diana replacing Queen Elizabeth II. It also features "Banksy of England" along the top of the note, with the comment "I promise to pay the bearer on demand the ultimate price" printed underneath. The final modification on the back, near the portrait of Charles Darwin, is the statement "Trust No One."

The lot also includes a collage of photographs documenting the encounter described above, which later appeared on Antiques Roadshow, as well as nine promotional printed notes.

The collage of photographs exhibits a significant tear in its centre. Dimensions (Autographed Di-Faced Tenner): Dimensions: 7.75 cm x 14.5 cm (3" x 5.75")

About the Artist:

Arguably the most famous individual in street art, Banksy is an anonymous British artist whose work has gained international fame. Not only does his art spark frequent conversations, but the artist's identity remains a subject of speculation. He is predominantly known for commenting on social and political issues, with dark humour usually incorporated. Banksy's iconic street art is often achieved using spray paint and stencils, but he also has used other mediums, including creating his own currency and modifying street signs.

An artist resale right royalty applies to this lot, as provided under local law. The buyer agrees to pay us the amount equal to that resale royalty and we undertake to the buyer to pay such amount to the appropriate authority.