| Description |
Rhode Island February 14, 1743 6 Pence Fr. RI-52a. PCGS Extremely Fine 45 Apparent. This is a magnificent "Tall" Bill of Credit from Rhode Island authorized by the General Assembly from South Kingstown. The authorization and issue is known as the Eighth Bank. The engraved face plate, which was subsequently redated for a few more issues, is one of the most handsomely designed plates in the 1690-1750 New England Bill of Credit issuing period. The obligations are in the cartouche taking up the top two thirds of the note. The sides show column details; the bottom has fancy scrollwork on each side of the Rhode Island anchor motif symbolizing Hope; the top displays fancy engraved details in the corners with Six Pence in the center; and at the bottom left, the Royal Arms. The back is simpler with an ornamental square cartouche composed of mixed types such as crowns, urns, plumes and roses. At center is "Six Pence/ equal to/ Two Shillings/ Old Tenor." A very bold note, from the earliest plate state, with three clear signatures and serial No. 4180 at upper right. A deeply inked, strong plate was used on this note. Broad margins, although the left end margin does dive just a bit closely toward the bottom. Apparent, cited with a "Repaired Center Split," but the paper body is considerable and extraordinary for this type of large format Bill of Credit. An extremely rare note. The Boyd collection "Tall" notes sold in Ford Part III had only three different redated plates. Beautifully printed and very striking. This eye-catching Rhode Island bill is a highlight in the Colonial currency section from the Newman Collection. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.
Realized $9,693.75. Newman VI (Heritage Auctions, 4/2015), lot 19544. Description courtesy of Heritage Auctions. |
