NNP

South Carolina February 8, 1779 $70 Fr. SC-156. PCGS About New 53. The Coram "Prometheus Bound" type has very powerful imagery on the back. This note is illustrated on the color plates of the fifth edition of the Newman reference on page 56. The face features Hope leaning on the stock of an upright anchor with the motto SPES MENTIS SOLATIO (Hope is the consolation of the mind). The back is signed "Coram Sc.," but not dated. The plate details are perhaps the finest in the entire Colonial currency series. Prometheus, punished for stealing fire from the gods and giving it to mankind, is bound to rocks and attacked by a vulture who daily eats his ever-regenerating liver. Perhaps the Prometheus imagery symbolizes the British attack on the American fight for independence. Printed on cream paper. A striking example that is deeply inked on both sides, resulting in a beautiful impression. Framed beautifully on the face with wide, even margins. The back has near perfect centering. Lightly handled. With its superb details and interesting imagery, this is always one of the most coveted Coram types. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society

From Newman VIII (Heritage Auctions, 11/2017), lot 28151, realized $4080. Image and description courtesy of Heritage Auctions, https://ha.com.