Friedberg 1166b (W-2200). 1863 $20 Gold Certificate. PCGS Currency About New 50.These early Gold Certificates were issued under the Act of March 3, 1863. The present note bears a written issue date of Nov. 27, 1865. A patriotic eagle on a shield is seen at left with the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above. A green latticework tint is seen across the center and left of the right side of the note and outlines a large 20 near center. An ornate die counter 20 is near the top right corner while the engraved signatures of Treasury officials Colby and Spinner are stacked below. "Engraved and Printed at the Treasury Department" is imprinted near the top center of the note. A small red spiked Treasury Seal is also at right. The autographed signature of Assistant U.S. Treasurer H.H. Van Dyck is along the lower left border of the design. Examples of the type were printed for Assistant U.S. Treasurer offices in Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Washington. The presently offered example as well as all other surviving notes are from the New York office. The back is ornately printed in brilliant gold-orange. On the reverse, a period $20 double eagle is found at center surrounded by intricate geometric lathe work. Small denomination counters are at left and right. pThe note is well margined and richly colored, with bold inks throughout. The creamy white paper shows only sight traces of circulation. The grading service makes note of edge restorations on the back of the holder. While present, the restorations are deftly executed and difficult to detect. The note retains exceptional eye appeal and is truly a treat to behold. pThere are six 1863 $20 Gold Certificates known to survive, two of which are forever held at the Bureau of Public Debt and the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. This note, with serial number 416, plate D, is far and away the finest known example of the type. The other surviving notes are in the Very Fine range. pThis is the Friedberg and Hessler illustration note. It is also the plate example in the emWhitman Encyclopedia of U.S. Paper Money /emby Q. David Bowers. Few notes in all of American currency are as visually stunning. Only four collectors can be fortunate enough to own an example of this important type and just one can lay claim to this, the finest known example. Here is an incredible opportunity to secure a true numismatic rarity of great historical importance. pFrom Friedberg and Hessler illustrations; Wayte Raymond; Paul Kagin; Currency Auctions of Americas sale of January 1999, lot 1546; Jay Parrinos Fixed Price List of 1999; CAA/Heritage Auctions sale of May 2005, lot 16741.
