''CORRECTION''
The Mercantile Bank became part of HSBC GROUP in 1959, its H.K. branch continued to issue notes until 1974, even though responsibility for its note issue was transferred to the HONG KONG BANK IN 1966..... I WAS THERE.... IT IS QUOTED FROM '' MONEY IN THE BANK'' by JOE CRIBB-LONDON-1987- And I do not believe a BRITISH Bank under BRITISH RULE at that time would be sold to a foreign entity............