Friedberg 357 (W-394). 1891 $2 Treasury Note. PCGS Currency Superb Gem New 67 PPQ.Deep embossing is displayed by this superbly margined, sharply printed, and crisp 1891 $2 Treasury Note. This Deuce features the portrait of Union Major General James McPherson at right and a large 2 counter at left. The paper is bright and fresh making it an ideal canvas for this popular design type. While uncirculated examples of these 1891 deuces are far from unheard of, Superb level examples are difficult for collectors to secure.<p>The distinctive portrait on the face of this note is that of Union Major General James Birdseye McPherson. This series of notes was designed in celebration of the strength of the Union, undoubtedly effective at a time when many Americans remembered their own experiences of the Civil War. McPherson, killed in the July 1864 Battle of Atlanta, served as chief engineer under General U.S. Grant in 1862, and later served in the Vicksburg Campaign (1862-1863) and at the Battle of Shiloh (1864), after which he was given command of the Army of the Tennessee. His death is notable in more than one respect. The army he faced in Atlanta was led by Confederate General John Bell Hood, who had been McPhersons classmate at West Point, illustrating how close associates and even brothers found themselves opposing each other on the field of battle. Additionally he was the second highest ranking Union officer killed in the war.<p><em>From Stacks sale of November 2007, lot 3171.</em>
