| Description |
Colony of Connecticut July 12, 1709 3 Shillings Raised to 10 Shillings Fr. CT-3a. PCGS Very Fine 30 Apparent. This is an exceedingly rare, perhaps unique, and important early American currency note. The great Colonial note collectors from the 19th and early 20th centuries coveted the early "Tall" Bills of Credit. Legends such as Haseltine, Chapman, and F.C.C. Boyd held them in similar esteem to the rare Colonial coins they collected concurrently. Connecticut early bills are among the rarest New England issues. This is a genuine bill, with the denomination raised from 3 shillings to 10 shillings. The Boyd note (Ford III, May 2004, Lot 542) was also a raised note (partially), and he paid $125 for it many decades ago, based upon his penciled code on the back. This example has had the "THREE" in the top line changed to "TEN" and the numeral "3" to the right of the serial number altered to a "10." Genuine in all regards with a trio of strong inked signatures including Caleb Stanly, who also countersigns on the back. The ornate scrollwork at the top of the back is obscured by the first of two endorsements. Despite being raised, the bill was paid out at "Tenn Shillings," as attested by Stanly's June 26, 1710 endorsement. A beautiful note, broad and overall rather bright. Noted by PCGS with "Small Stains; Minor Mounting Remnants on Back." This is tremendously undervalued in the grand view of American numismatics, particularly when compared to its Colonial coin brethren of similar rarity. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society
Realized $15275.00. Newman VII (Heritage Auctions, 10/2015), lot 18024. Description courtesy of Heritage Auctions. |
