What does the A and 50 stand for on the right side margin of this fractional? Neither of my reference books address this.
I found some information about this bill on the internet. Plate numbers are found on the back of the note and are printed as a mirror image (reversed). However, I have yet to find any information on the letter and number in question on the face. Any fractional collectors out there with the information, or a site I can reference?
From Gene Hessler's, Comprehensive Catalog of US Paper Money, 6th edition: This is the Ten-Cent Note - Fifth Issue, of which he has cataloged the following three varieties: No. 1535 (long thin key in green seal) No. 1536 (long thin key in red seal) No. 1537 (short thick key in red seal) Further info about this series of fractional currency here and here (images) I believe that the letter "A" and the number below are called 'sheet indicators'. Someone will be along to correct me if I am mistaken about this.
From Friedberg, The Official Red Book: A guide book of United States Paper Money, 2nd edition: The Fifth Issue, February 26, 1874, to February 15, 1876. Ten-Cent Notes in the following three varieties: Fr. 1264 (green seal) Fr. 1265 (red seal with long, thin key) Fr. 1266 (red seal with short, thick key)
krispy: I have the same Red Book and a copy of last years Black Book, but neither address the items in question. Some of the information on earlier issues of fractional currency, refer to the plate numbers and sheet indicators in their descriptions. One pamphlet I read said, "some letters and numbers were hidden like Easter Eggs to help deter counterfeiting." (Primarily on the third issue of fractional's). I will assume these letter and number combination's are as you said, sheet indicators, not plate numbers. Deductive logic says this is the most likely scenario and the one I will use. Thanks for your input.
Thanks for posting the back of the note too. I hadn't noticed the hole on the lower corner before. BTW, what's the grade on this note? which TPG?
The 5th Issue 10 cent notes (all 3 varities) are ~ 50mm x 80 mm and have black ink faces as well as green backs. The notes have either a Red or Green Seal. The "Key's" in the seal are of 2 length's 5 mm long key and the 4 mm short key. The main design feature is William Merideth (Sec of Treasury) 1845-1849. The Note you posted is the 5mm "Long Key" with position (Paper Layout) "A" plate # 50 It is known that the 4mm short key issue had plate numbers ranging from 1-72 however, the BEP Plate Proofs did range from 1-90. The Gengerke collection at one time (or may still) contain an example with Plate #90. This is one of my favorite fractionals.. and I have all 3 varities in High Grade CHCU or Gem. RickieB
krispy; There isn't any TPG, it's a raw note. I put it into my inventory as an AU55 considering the paper hole. I left the protective plastic sleeve on it when I took this photograph.
