Can anyone explain the rational for the Hawaii $5, $10, and $20 being released as FRNs while the N. Africa notes were released as SCs? If someone can explain that to me then that person could probably explain why there was not a $20 N. Africa. The center of my collection is Emergency notes, yet when a person asked me these questions I could not answer them. They're basic questions and with my focus on Emergency notes I thought I should be able to answer them, but to my embarrassment I can not.
Bill: The lack of a NA $20.00 is the easier question to answer. In short, higher denominations were unnecessary. The yellow seal NA notes were used for limited purposes. The primary purpose was for troop pay during the initial invasion period in North Africa and Italy. Once the foothold was gained and sufficient stocks of local currency was obtained in North Africa and AMC lire was issued in Italy, troops were paid in the local currency and the yellow seals ceased being used for this purpose. Secondarily, yellow seals were also used by service personnel transiting from the European Theater to another Theater. Finally, they were paid out to service members prior to their departure from Europe back to the US at the end of the war. Because of the limited purpose for which they were issued, denominations of $20.00 and higher were unnecessary.
lettow is correct with the denom. question. That's always what I've understood too. As to your other question from what I've been told is that the N. African notes could be quickly and easily demonitized meaning they would be rendered useless and valueless if they fell into the wrong hands or where stolen from military personnel or in transportation to their destination. Think a brinks truck robbery lol. Then once currency was established they ceased to be used anyway as lettow mentioned. Just like the deactivation of our blue seal silver certificates you can't ask for a silver dollar anymore.
