Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 315 - Numismatic Collector's Series Sale
Lot: 728

Seldom Available "Original" Framed Gray Fractional Currency Shield - Fr. 1382.Not originally issued in frames, it is evident that many Fractional Currency Shields soon found their way into gold trimmed wooden frames, perhaps for display in public areas such as post offices. Because of the contemporary housing that is missing so frequently on shields that exist today is intact on the present, we don´t hesitate to endorse the present as fully "original". Further differentiating the current shield from many that are offered today is the absence of water stains on the bottom quarter. Like most of the gray shields (gray being the most common of three varieties), the present is composed of 39 specimen fractional notes, four or which have hand-signed Jefferies-Spinner signature combinations. Minor variations in note conditions are visible, but the notation of specific specimen condition remains unnecessary given their relative similarity. Several condition issues however do exist and, while not major deterrents in the big picture, are worthy of mention. While not uncommon, the paper has moderately but evenly toned and close inspection yields a small tear in the lower right margin that steers clear of the shield. Additionally, several folds and creases enter the shield, primarily on the right side. Additionally, it is apparent that insects at one time made their acquaintance with the shield as minor paper thinning is traceable around portions of the margins. All said though, the present original frame, glass and shield, a combination that appears to be getting rarer and rarer with time, presents wonderfully and is one of the most visually imposing items available to banknote aficionados. Further, it is one of the truest pieces of numismatic Americana available to collectors, offering those few lucky owners the chance to intimately connect to a time when counterfeiting was a great public concern and the government´s answer to said problem was to produce a visual display of what things "should look like", so as to educate the populace. A wonderful piece of American fabric that is sure to be cherished by its next owner.

Sold for
$4,000