Faced with severe hoarding of coinage during the Civil War, the Federal government was forced to issue small change paper money, known as "Fractional Currency" to alleviate the situation. Several different series of notes were issued between 1862 and 1876, all in denominations less than one dollar.
From the first issue of Postage Currency, so named because of the postage stamp designs, to the odd 3 Cent note (issued because the cost to mail a letter was 3c) and the unusual 15 Cent note, Fractional Currency is a fascinating and affordable way to collect early U.S. paper money. This field has enjoyed great popularity in recent years and continues to amaze generations of collectors.
Fiber paper with surcharges '18-63 & T-1'. A bright and fresh appearance. Very scarce and desirable.
Green Seal. A pleasing note with strong color and bright premium paper.
Unwatermarked. Pink Fibers. Light even wear and solid for the grade. The 'key' variety in the type.
Without Surcharges on Back. A pleasing example that exhibits strong color with a little black over inking. Bronzing appears fresh and premium paper is bright.
Portrait of William Fessenden, Secretary of the Treasury under Lincoln. Very attractive with nice bronzing, strong color, and bright premium paper.
Short, Thick Key. An attractive example with premium paper.
Long, Thin Key. A fresh note with a great appearance.
Light Background. Rich ink rests upon original paper with super wide margins.
Light Background. Nicely balanced margins, strong color, and bright premium paper.
Straight Edges. With Monogram. An attractive example with nice borders, vibrant color and premium paper.
Red Back. "1" on Front. Fully margined with bright premium paper, strong color, and nice bronzing.