A Founding Issue of American Banking: The 1914 Federal Reserve Note

This listing offers a remarkable and historically significant piece of American financial history. It is a Series 1914 One Hundred Dollar Federal Reserve Note, widely known among collectors as a Large Size note. Featuring the iconic portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and an allegorical scene on the reverse, this note represents one of the first issues of Federal Reserve currency ever produced.

These notes were issued shortly after the passing of the Federal Reserve Act in 1913, which established the United States banking system and created a uniform national currency. They were the first Federal Reserve Notes issued for general circulation and are notable for their large size, measuring approximately seven and three-eighths by three and one-eighth inches, which was the standard for all United States currency printed between 1863 and 1928.

Historical Context: The Birth of the Federal Reserve Note

The One Hundred Dollar Federal Reserve Note was first issued in 1914. The Federal Reserve Act of December 23, 1913, authorized the creation of a new type of paper money that would be backed by commercial paper and issued by the twelve regional Federal Reserve Banks. This system replaced the older National Bank Notes and created a more stable and flexible currency.

The 1914 series notes featured a distinctive scalloped blue seal, though some varieties featured a red seal. The note was printed on paper composed of one-fourth linen and three-fourths cotton, containing red and blue security fibers. The note's reverse prominently stated that it was redeemable in gold on demand, reflecting the gold standard era of United States currency.

Design and Specifications

The obverse of this note features the portrait of Benjamin Franklin, the renowned statesman, inventor, and a drafter of the Declaration of Independence. His presence on this note connects it to a figure of immense historical importance, and his portrait has remained on the One Hundred Dollar bill for over a century. The reverse displays five allegorical figures representing Labor, Plenty, America, Peace, and Commerce, a classical design that embodies the nation's ideals and aspirations.

Product Specifications

Denomination: 100 Dollars
Series: 1914
Type: Federal Reserve Note (Large Size)
Obverse: Portrait of Benjamin Franklin
Reverse: Five allegorical figures representing Labor, Plenty, America, Peace, and Commerce
Size: Large, approximately 7.375 by 3.125 inches
Treasury Seal: Blue (scalloped)
Legal Status: Receivable by all national and member banks and Federal Reserve Banks and for all taxes, customs, and other public dues

Why This Note Deserves a Place in Your Collection

This is a historic first issue, a note from the first series of Federal Reserve Notes, issued shortly after the establishment of the Federal Reserve System in 1913. It features the large size design, a classic example of horse blanket currency that was standard before the size reduction in 1928. It displays the iconic portrait of Benjamin Franklin, a design that has remained on the One Hundred Dollar bill for over a century. High-denomination notes from this era are highly sought after by currency collectors due to their historical significance and scarcity. Most of all, it is a tangible piece of American financial history, a direct connection to the founding of the nation's central banking system.

This note is more than currency. It is a piece of American history, offering a rare glimpse into the birth of the Federal Reserve System and the evolution of United States paper money. For the discerning collector, it represents a truly significant and desirable acquisition.

The auction is live. Notes of this caliber do not appear often. Place your bid and secure this remarkable piece of history for your collection.

Dimensions:
Height 3.125, Width 7.4375, Depth less than 0.01 inches
Weight less than 0.1 lbs

Condition:
Good, with visible folds, creasing, and some discoloration consistent with age and circulation. Edges show minor wear and small tears.

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

• Low Estimate: 2500
• High Estimate: 5000