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.
Plain Edges. With Monogram. A bright note with a fresh appearance and well centered on both sides.
Fiber paper with surcharges '18-63 & T-1'. A bright and fresh appearance. Very scarce and desirable.
Green Reverse. Rich color, bright paper, and great borders provide excellent eye appeal.
Unwatermarked. Pink Fibers. Light even wear and solid for the grade. The 'key' variety in the type.
Perforated Edges. With Monogram. Great color and original paper.
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.
Wide Margins Specimen. Green Back. Hints of guide line can still be seen on a lovely specimen note that exhibits vivid color and bright premium paper.
Straight Edges. With ABNCo. Monogram. Bright and fresh.
Portrait of Spenser Clark. Green Back. Well centered on both sides. Vivid color and bright premium paper provide great eye appeal.
Surcharge "1863" and "0-1". Fiber Paper. A scarce variety with nice bronzing.
Green Reverse. No Surcharge. No Design Figures. Well margined on both sides. Vivid color and rich bronzing blend nicely with bright paper.
Portrait of Lincoln. A popular and desirable note that appears to be quite nice with premium paper, strong color, and is well margined.