A Historic Piece of Reconstruction-Era American Currency

This listing offers a historic and significant piece of Reconstruction-era American currency. It is the 1872 State of South Carolina Twenty Dollar Revenue Bond Scrip. This note is a tangible artifact from a tumultuous period in American history, issued to address the state's financial obligations following the Civil War.

The scrip is professionally certified and encapsulated by Paper Money Guaranty, or PMG, one of the most respected third-party grading services in the currency collecting industry. PMG's certification provides assurance of the note's authenticity, grade, and originality.

PMG 66 EPQ Grade

This example has been graded PMG 66 Gem Uncirculated with the EPQ, or Exceptional Paper Quality, designation. Key details of the grade include the Gem Uncirculated 66 designation, a premium grade with exceptional eye appeal. The note displays sharp detail, strong color, and excellent original surfaces with only minimal, if any, handling marks. The EPQ designation confirms the note is completely original with no signs of restoration, pressing, or other alteration. This grade is among the highest certified for this issue, making it a standout piece for collectors, with a PMG 67 example being the only finer grade known.

Historical Context

Following the Civil War, South Carolina faced significant financial challenges, including its guarantee of bonds issued by the Blue Ridge Railroad Company. In 1872, the state legislature authorized the issuance of Revenue Bond Scrip to relieve the state of liability for these railroad bonds.

The scrip was receivable as twenty dollars in payment of all taxes and dues to the state except special tax levied to pay interest on public debt, as stated on the note's face.

A fascinating historical note: the state legislature acted to prevent these notes from being placed into circulation when it was discovered that the corrupt Reconstruction-era state government had apparently duplicated the order of these notes from the American Bank Note Company, resulting in five million dollars in notes being shipped, once to the governor and once to the state treasurer. The controversy makes this note a fascinating collectible with a rich historical narrative.

Design Features

The front of the note features the words State of South Carolina with a bold twenty denomination in all four corners. The central vignette depicts allegorical figures flanking the state shield, and a detailed vignette at the lower right shows a young girl shielding her eyes. Unlike many obsolete notes that have blank reverses, this issue displays an ornate green design with intricate guilloche patterns. Large twenty numerals appear on both sides, framing a central panel with printed legal text detailing the note's purpose. The note was printed by the American Bank Note Company, known for superior workmanship and detailed engravings.

Product Specifications

Year: 1872
Denomination: 20 Dollars
State: South Carolina
Type: Revenue Bond Scrip
Date: March 2, 1872
Certification: PMG
Grade: 66 EPQ, Gem Uncirculated
Catalog Reference: Fr. SCCR7, Haxby OBSSCCR7
Printer: American Bank Note Company

Why This Note Deserves a Place in Your Collection

This is a Reconstruction-era artifact, a genuine piece of post-Civil War South Carolina history. It carries PMG 66 EPQ certification, one of the highest grades available for this issue, with Exceptional Paper Quality confirming its originality. It features beautiful engraving by the renowned American Bank Note Company, with intricate and detailed vignettes. It displays an unusual design, with a fully printed, ornate reverse that is uncommon in obsolete currency. Most of all, it is tied to the controversial political and legal battles of the Reconstruction period, offering a rich historical narrative that extends beyond the note itself.

This note is more than currency. It is a piece of American history, offering a rare glimpse into the financial and political challenges of the Reconstruction era. 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 3.25, Width 7.5, Depth 0.1 inches
Weight 0.1 lbs

Condition:
Excellent - Certified by PMG as 66 Gem Uncirculated with Exceptional Paper Quality (EPQ). The note is well-preserved with no visible folds, tears, or stains. The plastic holder is also in excellent condition.

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 re

• Low Estimate: 500.00
• High Estimate: 1000.00