-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 31682
Checkout
The 1929 $20 National Bank Note from Baltimore, Maryland, is a notable piece of American currency with a rich historical context. It was issued by the National Bank of Baltimore, charter number 2499, and is part of the series of National Bank Notes printed in 1929, following the passage of the National Banking Act. This law was designed to standardize the currency issued by the nation’s banks and to ensure that a uniform system of currency could be circulated across the country. These notes, also known as "small size notes" because of their compact dimensions compared to earlier issues, were the last series of National Bank Notes to be printed before the advent of Federal Reserve Notes.
The design of the 1929 $20 National Bank Note is typical of the "small size" series, which introduced a uniform design for all denominations. The note features a portrait of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, on the obverse. Jackson’s image was a common choice for U.S. currency, especially in the early 20th century, reflecting his significant political role and legacy. The reverse of the note displays the denomination and intricate security features, designed to prevent counterfeiting. The note’s layout includes ornate borders and distinctive numerals, which, along with the Treasury Seal and the national bank’s seal, served as key security measures.
One of the most distinctive features of the 1929 $20 National Bank Note is its unique serial number, which links the note to the specific bank that issued it. This particular note, issued by the National Bank of Baltimore, displays the bank's charter number (#2499), making it a key piece for collectors interested in notes from this specific institution. The charter number identifies the bank that was responsible for the note’s circulation and can be valuable for collectors focusing on notes from particular regions or banks. National Bank Notes, such as this one, were backed by the bank's reserves, giving them full legal tender status, and were redeemable for precious metals like gold or silver.
The 1929 $20 National Bank Note was part of a wider set of currency issued during a time of significant economic and social change in the United States. The late 1920s marked the end of the Roaring Twenties, a decade of rapid economic growth, which was followed by the Great Depression. The 1929 series was a direct result of the need to modernize U.S. currency after the economic upheaval caused by World War I. The Treasury Department and the U.S. Treasury’s Bureau of Engraving and Printing introduced these smaller notes to streamline the handling of currency. Despite being issued at the tail end of an economic boom, these notes became symbolic of the turbulent years that followed.
Regarding mintage, it is known that a large number of 1929 National Bank Notes were issued, but specific mintage figures for individual banks like the National Bank of Baltimore can vary. In general, National Bank Notes were issued by thousands of banks across the country, but only a fraction of those notes survive today. The 1929 $20 National Bank Note from Baltimore is thus considered a collectible piece due to its relatively low survival rate, particularly in higher-grade conditions. Collectors are keen to find examples in good condition, as the number of well-preserved notes is limited.
In terms of condition, the note being described is graded as Fine, which means it has seen considerable circulation but retains most of its important features. Fine-grade notes typically exhibit moderate to heavy wear, with some of the finer details of the design being worn down but still visible. The edges of the note may show signs of fraying, and the ink may have faded slightly due to handling, but it should still maintain a cohesive appearance. In the case of this $20 note, its Fine condition makes it a relatively affordable option for collectors compared to higher-grade examples like Very Fine or Uncirculated notes. However, its historical significance, coupled with its condition, ensures that it remains an important piece in the world of currency collecting.
When evaluating the value of a 1929 $20 National Bank Note in Fine condition, collectors take several factors into consideration. These factors include the rarity of the bank's charter number, the overall condition of the note, and any unique serial numbers or historical features. Although this note is graded as Fine, it remains a highly sought-after piece due to its connection to the National Bank of Baltimore. Notes from specific banks and those with particular serial numbers can often command a premium in the market. Additionally, the Great Depression and the historical context surrounding the 1929 series make these notes an essential part of American numismatic history.
For numismatists and collectors of U.S. paper currency, the 1929 $20 National Bank Note is more than just a piece of money—it’s a snapshot of the United States during a critical period of its economic history. As such, it is a desirable item for collectors who seek to complete collections of National Bank Notes, notes from specific states or cities, or those who are simply drawn to the historical significance of the currency. Whether framed as a historical artifact or stored as a treasured part of a collection, this note serves as a reminder of the country’s resilience in the face of economic challenges.
In conclusion, the 1929 $20 Federal Reserve Note from Baltimore, Maryland, Charter #2499, in Fine condition, remains a valuable and collectible piece of U.S. numismatic history. Its design, historical significance, and rarity make it a noteworthy example of the National Bank Note series. Collectors will appreciate its unique connection to the National Bank of Baltimore, one of the many banks that issued these notes during the early 20th century. As with all historical currency, the story behind the note adds to its appeal and places it within the context of both U.S. economic history and the evolution of American currency.