Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (First) Bank of the United States. ND (179x). $50. PCGS Currency Choice About New 58. Proof.(US-1 G40. Newman page 366). This is a second denomination, with the same pedigree chain, from a series that is arguably the precursor to Federal Demand Notes that did not appear until 1861. The Haxby Plate Note and exceedingly rare, perhaps the only reported genuine example of the type. No plate letter. Printed directly on laid paper. No imprint. Upper left, Heraldic Eagle styled after the early Great Seal of the United States. Left end, ornate FIFTY on shaded panel. We cannot overemphasize the rarity of this proof and it is high on the list of many highlights offered in The 52 Collection Part I auction. Exceptional condition and originally cataloged in its raw state as Choice Uncirculated. Any slight handling observed third-party is academic as this is likely irreplaceable. Deeply printed and well margined. Embossing seen to the blank verso. There is some ghosting observed due to sheet stacking. This $50 is a sheet-mate to the $100 proof from the series sold in the 52 Collection Part I sale (lot 5776) that realized $20,700. As we stated over nine years ago, this is a giant from the American paper currency canon and traditionally collected within the obsolete and Colonial note series as a true crossover piece. A magnificent opportunity to obtain an early American classic.From our Stacks 52 Collection Part I, June 29, 2010, lot 5775 where it realized $18,400; previously from a Private Collection; St. Louis PCDA Sale (R.M. Smythe & Co., November 4-5, 1994, Lot 1307).
