National Currency: More Than 50 Types of Designs

The history of national currency in the United States is quite rich. There have been more than 50 designs put into effect on paper money in the country since it was first established in 1862. This is a considerable amount. Although the standard bill design we all know so well these days has essentially been around for many years, the country issued a number of bank notes in its early days.

In addition, some currency denominations that existed in the late 19th century and early 20th century ceased production a long time ago (i.e. $1,000 bills), although collectors are still searching for those that remain in circulation in the private market. The reason for the multitude of design styles is the fact that many banks printed national currency, 12,635 to be exact. These notes are distinguished into four key categories or series. Each series lasted roughly two decades and contained unique design patterns and markings. These are the criteria old money buyers use when assessing the value of national currency notes.

Types of National Currency and Design Features

If you are interested in collecting old money for your personal interests or are considering working as a professional dealer in the industry, you will need to know what to look for when it comes to national currency. This means taking the time to learn each and every one of the design features present on these notes. It may take some time, but it will definitely be in your favor in the long term.

This field requires having a keen eye, as there are plenty of people who sell and distribute fraudulent pieces. In addition, being able to quickly recognize a particular note by its markings will give you the upper hand when it comes to negotiating with a buyer/seller. Here is some helpful information pertaining to the design styles present on the different national currency series.

First Charter Notes were produced from 1862 to 1881; they have the year 1875 or earlier printed on them and typically contain a red seal on the front.
Second series currency notes (Brown Back) were printed from 1882 through 1908; you will know if you have one of these if a year in this range is present on the back of the bill. The final issue of this series lists the denomination in the center of the back in large font.
Third Series notes were printed from 1902 to 1929; these notes contained red and blue seals. The former are rarer and thus much more valuable.
The final series were printed after 1929 and they are noticeably smaller in size in comparison to previous generations.

National currency notes have long been popular among collectors and antique money buyers. Knowing how to distinguish between the four series will help you narrow down the value of the note in regards to the specific design features that it contains.