| Description |
Rhode Island June 14, 1726 Redated 1733 20 Shillings Fr. RI-21d. PCGS Very Fine 25 Apparent. This is a large and impressive early Rhode Island Bill of Credit redeemable at Newport. This Newman plate note may be unique as a denomination from the series. This is the only example we have seen, and it might be the only genuine note extant from this redated issue. It was printed from a beautifully engraved set of plates. The face has the detailed obligation at the center within an ornate cartouche. Handsome filigree details are at the top, and the indent design is cut with the "tombstone" effect seen on many early "Tall" Bills of Credit. At the lower left is the Rhode Island Hope motif shield with deftly placed "20S" for preventing denomination raising. To the right of three signatures are consecutive redates of 1728, 1731, and 1733. The back is without text and shows leafy vines intertwined with an eagle and the head of an eagle. A beautiful and full size note with minor faults. Noted with "Repaired Splits and Tears," which are moot points compared to the possibility of uniqueness of this historical early note. A prize Newman plate note from this famous Colonial currency collection. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society
Realized $7637.50. Newman VII (Heritage Auctions, 10/2015), lot 18197. Description courtesy of Heritage Auctions. |
