16763

Fr. 212d $50 1865 Interest Bearing Note Very Fine.

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / Paper Money - United States Start Price:2,002.00 USD Estimated At:35,000.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
Fr. 212d $50 1865 Interest Bearing Note Very Fine.
<B>Fr. 212d $50 1865 Interest Bearing Note Very Fine.</B></I> Another incredible rarity and one of only two examples known to exist with this June 15, 1865 issue date. There is a good chance that this note is in fact unique with this date as the only other known example is listed in the Gengerke records as having been in the Robert F. Schermerhorn Collection as of 1955--that note is listed as having Serial Number 69802. The only other example besides the current piece listed is Serial Number 68602, a piece known to be counterfeit. While not demonstrably certain, it appears likely to this cataloger that the Schermerhorn piece is also a counterfeit based on its serial number. This cataloger has been studying counterfeit notes for more decades than he cares to remember, and reusing the same digits in different arrangements was very commonplace for counterfeiters of this era. The currently offered note is genuine beyond any doubt and is a very nearly ideal example of its grade. It's well margined with spectacular color and bold printing quality. As with most all higher denomination Interest Bearing Notes, it bears a partial "Pay To" bank stamp on the back as well as a few minor penned numbers. The note also has several stray ink splotches on both the front and back that do little to detract from this stunning rarity. When last on the auction market in December of 1998, this note realized $35,200 and it will likely equal that this evening. Lot:16763