Friedberg 394 (W-680). 1864 National Bank Note. New York, New York. National Exchange Bank. PCGS Currency New 61. Face Essay Proof.Hessler-274. Plate C. Imprint of Continental Bank Note Co. New York. India paper, mounted on original card. Black and white engraved portions of the face only. Complete essay with full titles. New York National Exchange Bank, New York. Dated April 15, 1864. Top center, titles and obligation. Left end with Columbus sighting land and to the right end, America as an Indian princess introducing Old World to the New World. Engraved signatures of Chittenden and Spinner. Unique to our knowledge. A fascinating Original Series National proof note, last sold in 1990 at the Glenn Jackson Collection auction at Memphis. The title on New York City was not chartered and Hessler conjectures this essay may have been a converted plate from Lockport or Troy to print the note. Whatever the reason, we have never seen another example. Deep printing and an especially bold strike, deep embossing to the card. Very trivial handling seen under scrutiny. Corner mount paper on the verso of the card. Worthy of strong competition for its style, pedigree, and strong condition.From our March 23, 2012 Baltimore Whitman Expo Sale, lot 5425; Dr. Glenn Jackson Collection; Nascas (a division of R.M. Smythe) sale of June 16, 1990, lot 3255.
