NNP

South Carolina February 8, 1779 $40 Fr. SC-153. PCGS Extremely Fine 40 Apparent. Notes from this issue are among the most popular of all Colonial currency, and justifiably so due to their distinctive, artistic style. Issued late in the war, they were engraved and printed by Thomas Coram of Charleston. Their vignettes and mottos often symbolize patriotic ideals related to the Revolution. The ordinance specified at least $1,000,000 in "Bills of Credit" (or up to $3,000,000 if that sum could not be borrowed elsewhere) that were also legal tender until revoked by the act of February 6, 1782. Additional denominations were added to the authorization creating a seven-note series. The notes were printed on two sides and paper variations are observed. Each face has a vignette with a motto at the lower left and the backs have elaborate designs. They were issued with three signatures. This lowest denomination $40 note is printed on thick cream paper. The face has a Ceres vignette and the motto MINIME VIOLANDA FIDES (Trust by no means is to be violated). A spectacular back shows an angel blowing a trumpet (similar to Fame observed on later U. S. Obsolete currency) holding a book titled ANNALS OF AMERICA. The denomination is in dollars above, and the sterling equivalent is below. Noted only with some "Edge Splits." However, boldly printed on both sides. The back is very finely detailed and deeply inked. Face margins are nearly complete, and the note is broad for the series. The face-to-back registration is perfect. A lovely example with tremendous originality. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society

From Newman VIII (Heritage Auctions, 11/2017), lot 28148, realized $456. Image and description courtesy of Heritage Auctions, https://ha.com.