| Description |
(Columbia), SC - State of South Carolina $5 Jan. 1866 Cr.-UNL. Essay Proof. PCGS Choice About New 58. Like the $10 essay we sold in Newman VI, this is unpublished in all the Southern States' references, from the 1915 William West Bradbeer book, through multiple Grover Criswell editions, and ultimately to the currently used A Guidebook of Southern States Currency by Hugh Shull (2007, Whitman Publishing). It is a handmade Face Essay Proof in mixed media and is unique. The Essay was created as a proposal for the Reconstruction-period notes that eventually were issued from Columbia with the January 1, 1866, date, and engraved by the American Bank Note Company (Cr. 01-04 types). The Essay Model is a blend of drawing and engraving. The engraved elements are mounted on original cardstock without imprint. This lovely work of art shows an allegorical female standing on top of the world with an eagle in a niche at the left end under a FIVE / 5 counter. There is green tint on the borders and some of the design elements, including the numerical protector at bottom center. The right end shows fancy scrollwork with an oval framed vignette of a palm tree at the shore. The verso of the card is interesting. A contemporary note was written in pencil perpendicularly, at the right end with, "$1050 in this style/f or 10,000 sheets / 4 on a sheet " / being 2 of the % / and 2 " " $10." (the sheet configuration chosen). The origin of the two Essay Model Proof denominations from this Act in the Newman collection is a mystery. It may have been a private proposal to local officials, but the engraved elements are suggestive of a link with the American Bank Note Company, especially with the ordering data on the verso. However, that is impossible to prove without supporting documents. The $10 Essay realized $9,400 in April 2015. Another priceless piece from the Newman Collection. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.
From Newman X (Heritage Auctions, November 2018), lot 20178, realized $2880. |
