May 10th, 1834. Rag Bank of the United States Philadelphia, PA Five Dollars. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N12. PMG Fine 12.No. 10. Plate A. This note is also unique and the only example observed by us. It first appeared in Smythes 1995 Memphis auction where it was acquired by Dr. York. It was not until 2016 that it was finally sold again at Roland Auctions. Hugh finally got his chance to own this prize when the Nassau Collection was sold in 2023. Its overall character and dimensions are very distinctive. The "jackass" pictogram in the center permitted the obligations to swirl around it, in all their complexities. Though at first glance it looks like currency, because the denomination in the center, the numerous plays on political slogans from the period weave a narrative of this unstable financial period. Calhoun and Biddle are both lampooned with their first names. Payable to "H. Clay" at their branch in Lexington, this is a very unusual obligation on any Hard Times Era Satirical Note. The bill also mentions "Anti-masonic," or "W-H-I-G paper rags." The end panels with their perpendicular text are somewhat perplexing and merit further research but "WIG CURRENCY" sums up the overall tenor of this exceptional museum caliber note. Fault-free making it rather exceptional for such an instrument that was meant to look worn in commerce communicating its political messages. Very strongly pursued when last auctioned. We would expect the same today with its enhanced pedigree research doubtlessly confirming its uniqueness.The Hugh Shull Collection of Hard Times Era & Historical Notes. Ex: Heritage 2023 FUN Auction #3591 (01/2023), Lot #20198. <p>Ex: The Nassau Collection. <p>Ex: Roland Auctions NY, Estate of Dr. Alan York: Coins, Medals & Paper Money (03/2016) Lot #222.<p>Ex: R.M. Smythe & Company, 1995 Memphis Auction #139 (06/1995), Lot #1168.<p>
