Originally printed during the Civil War, legal tender notes give collectors a fascinating glimpse into a now-obsolete currency program. Also called United States notes, this form of currency was issued directly by the government and originally featured exquisite artwork in the large format style. These 1863 notes are among the very first printed and could make for an exciting addition to your paper currency collection. Today, Very Good 1863 $5 Legal Tender Notes are available to you online from JM Bullion.

Note Highlights:

• Ships to you in a plastic currency sleeve from PMG!
• Civil War-era paper currency!
• Vintage large format design!
• Bears a face value of $5 (USD) backed by the federal government.
• Graded Very Good 8 by the Paper Money Guaranty.
• The obverse features Alexander Hamilton and the Statue of Freedom.
• On the reverse side, there is denomination and obligation information.

When you purchase these Legal Tender Notes from JM Bullion, they will arrive housed in clear plastic currency sleeves. At the top of the sleeve, there is a label featuring the official grade of Very Good 8 from the Paper Money Guaranty. While intact, these notes will show strong signs of circulation. Some signs of their age could include soiling, splits, and minor stains.

For the obverse of 1863 $5 Notes, there is a portrait of Alexander Hamilton and a rendering of the Statue of Victory. The imagery on this note is identical to the 1862 version. Hamilton appears on the right in a portrait somewhat smaller than those on other notes of the era. The Statue of Victory is on the left side and features a cloaked woman with a military helmet, sword, and shield.

For the reverse side of 1863 Legal Tender Notes, we see obligation details as well as the denomination. The obligation language confirms these notes as legal tender and also specifies that they cannot be used for duties on imports or as interest for public debt. The denomination is found on the left and right sides of the note.

While some might think the Federal Reserve Note to be the longest-running currency program in U.S. history, that honor actually goes to the lesser-known legal tender note. Sometimes called United States notes and “greenbacks,” this type of currency was first printed in 1862 to help resolve the Union’s Civil War expenses. The notes were issued directly by the government free of interest up until 1971. While still considered legal tender, today they are mostly sought by collectors for their historic intrigue and numismatic value.

Please contact JM Bullion if you have any questions about these notes. You can call us at 800-276-6508, chat with us live online, or email us directly.