1862–1863 5 Cents Fractional Currency Note F+

Civil War Fractional Currency Note

When the American Civil War first broke out in 1861, circulating coinage virtually disappeared. People fearful of the war’s outcome were hoarding their coins, keeping the precious silver and gold hidden away from a potential invading army. In order to make up for this shortage, the United States of America, under the leadership of President Lincoln, began issuing fractional currency notes like the 5 Cents Notes available here that were released between 1862–1863. The first-ever five-cent U.S. fractional currency note, it features a portrait of President Thomas Jefferson on the front and an ornate design on the back.

The government’s fractional currency notes were issued only from 1862 until 1876. Variously referred to as “paper coins” and “postage currency,” they were smaller than regular currency notes and they did not have serial numbers. While many were saved as mementos due to their curious size and denominations, many more were destroyed by the wear and tear of time and commerce. Don’t miss the chance to secure yours now in Fine+ (F+) condition. Secure one of these notes. Dates vary.

• SHORT-LIVED SERIES – Fractional notes were issued in denominations of 3, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents as way to ease the issue of hoarding coins during the Civil War. These notes were issued for only 15 years from 1862-1876.
• LEGAL TENDER CURRENCY – These currency notes were five cents legal tender in the United States, a tidy sum at a time when five cents would have purchased a pound of beef or a quart of milk.
• FINE+ CONDITION – Your 1862–1863 Five Cents Fractional Currency Note will come in nice Fine+ condition — remarkable after being printed more than 150 years ago during a time when these notes had almost replaced circulating coins.

A piece of paper currency with a denomination of only 5 cents? It’s true! Add one of these fascinating and historic 1862–1863 Five Cents Fractional Currency Notes to your collection today!