Friedberg 42. 1869 $2 Legal Tender Note. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ. Courtesy Autograph. United States Treasurer John Burke added his courtesy autograph over the engraved signature of one of his predecessors, Francis Spinner, on this broadly margined and colorful $2 "Rainbow" Legal Tender Note. Rich hues of green and red from the overprint inks combine with the blue tinted security paper these Series of 1869 notes are printed on. The color on this example is exceptional, the paper quality is flawless and aesthetic appeal is at a premium. This issue marks Thomas Jeffersons debut on the $2 note, and his portrait has remained on that denomination ever since. The portrait here was engraved by Charles Burt, likely after an oil painting by Gilbert Stuart. The face plate for this issue bears the imprint of National Bank Note Company beneath the serial number at the lower left. The back plate bears the imprint of American Bank Note Company. Interestingly, the face also bears the imprint of the Treasury, "Engraved & Printed at the Treasury Department."John Burke served as the 24th Treasurer of the United States. He was appointed by President Woodrow Wilson, succeeding Carmi A. Thompson. He served from April 1, 1913 until January 5, 1921 and was succeeded by Frank White. <em>From our (Stacks) sale of September 1996, lot 28. </em>
