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The 1929 $20 National Bank Note from Vancouver, Washington, Charter #9646, is a highly collectible piece of American history. National Bank Notes were issued by national banks across the United States between 1863 and 1935, as part of a government program that sought to create a uniform national currency during the Civil War and beyond. The 1929 series of National Bank Notes was issued during the early years of the Great Depression, making them particularly interesting for collectors who study the economic history of the United States during this time. This specific $20 note, issued by the Vancouver National Bank, holds significant historical and numismatic value due to its connection to the local economy in Vancouver, Washington, as well as the overall rarity and design of the 1929 National Bank Notes.
The history of National Bank Notes dates back to the passage of the National Banking Act of 1863, which was designed to help fund the Union’s war effort during the Civil War. This act established a system of national banks, which were authorized to issue their own currency backed by government bonds. These notes were initially issued as a way to provide a stable and unified currency, replacing the various state-chartered banknotes that were in circulation at the time. By the late 1800s, National Bank Notes had become a major part of the American monetary system, and their use continued through the early 20th century. The 1929 series of National Bank Notes, including this $20 note from Vancouver, was part of a redesign of the national currency following the passage of the Federal Reserve Act of 1913, which created the Federal Reserve System. The redesign replaced the larger format of earlier notes with a more compact, streamlined design. These notes were issued by local banks, such as the Vancouver National Bank, and are often sought after by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance.
The design of the 1929 $20 National Bank Note from Vancouver, Washington, Charter #9646, is a quintessential example of the currency issued during this period. The obverse of the note features a portrait of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, who was a popular figure in American politics during the 19th century. Jackson’s image was widely used on U.S. currency during this era, and it became a defining feature of the 1929 series of National Bank Notes. Jackson’s portrait is placed prominently on the left side of the note, with his likeness surrounded by intricate engravings and flourishes. The right side of the note displays the denomination, “TWENTY DOLLARS,” as well as the bank’s name, “VANCOUVER NATIONAL BANK,” and the city and state. Above the denomination, the note also includes the U.S. Treasury seal and the signature of the bank’s president. The design elements of this note, while relatively simple compared to later currency designs, convey a sense of official authority and stability that was essential to the role of these notes in the American economy.
The reverse of the note continues the theme of simplicity and functionality, with the main design element being the denomination in large, bold numbers. The large “20” in the center of the note is flanked by ornate engravings, and the overall layout is symmetrical, with a sense of balance that is characteristic of U.S. currency from this period. The reverse also includes the serial numbers, which are unique to each note and serve as an important means of identifying and tracking individual bills. The overall design of the 1929 $20 National Bank Note is a clear reflection of the times, with its straightforward and utilitarian aesthetic. While not as ornate as some earlier currency designs, the 1929 notes are prized by collectors for their historical significance and distinctive appearance.
The Vancouver National Bank, which issued this $20 note, was one of many banks authorized to issue National Bank Notes under the National Banking Act. The bank’s charter number, #9646, is printed on the note, which helps to identify the specific bank that issued the currency. Vancouver, Washington, located along the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest, was an important center for trade and commerce during the early 20th century, and the Vancouver National Bank played a key role in the local economy. The issuance of National Bank Notes by local banks like the Vancouver National Bank helped to support regional economic activity and provided a stable currency for businesses and consumers. Notes from smaller banks, such as this $20 from Vancouver, are highly collectible, as they represent the diversity and regionality of the U.S. banking system during this era. The relatively small number of banks that issued these notes adds to their rarity and desirability among collectors of U.S. currency.
The mintage of the 1929 $20 National Bank Note from Vancouver is relatively limited, as these notes were issued in smaller quantities compared to the more commonly circulated denominations. National Bank Notes were printed based on the needs of each individual bank, and many notes were either redeemed or destroyed over time. As a result, surviving examples of these notes, especially those in high-grade condition, are rare and valuable. The 1929 series, in particular, is sought after by collectors due to the historical context in which it was issued—the early years of the Great Depression. The limited mintage, combined with the fact that these notes were issued by a local bank, makes the Vancouver $20 note especially desirable for collectors who specialize in National Bank Notes or currency from Washington state. Notes from smaller cities and banks often have a higher premium due to their scarcity and regional significance.
The condition of the 1929 $20 National Bank Note from Vancouver, Washington, Charter #9646, is an important factor in determining its value on the market. This particular note is graded as F-VF, which means it is in Fine to Very Fine condition. In F-VF condition, the note shows signs of wear and handling, but the design elements remain legible and the note retains a significant amount of its original detail. The edges may show some fraying, and there may be light folds or creases in the paper, but the overall appearance is still attractive. The ink and engravings on the note remain sharp, and the overall structure of the paper is intact. Notes in this condition are often prized by collectors, as they represent an excellent balance between rarity and affordability. While not in pristine, uncirculated condition, the F-VF grade is still highly collectible and adds to the overall value of the note.
The 1929 $20 National Bank Note from Vancouver, WA, Charter #9646, also holds intrinsic value as part of the broader currency system. As a piece of U.S. history, the note is a physical representation of the economic and political forces that shaped the United States during the early 20th century. The issuance of these notes was part of a larger effort to create a stable and uniform currency system, and the design of the 1929 series reflects the importance of maintaining a sense of official authority during uncertain economic times. The note also serves as a reminder of the ongoing development of the U.S. banking system, with local banks playing a significant role in the economy. As such, the Vancouver $20 National Bank Note is an important artifact of U.S. financial history.
In conclusion, the 1929 $20 National Bank Note from Vancouver, Washington, Charter #9646, is a rare and historically significant piece of U.S. currency. Its design, mintage, and condition make it a desirable collectible for numismatists and those interested in the history of American banking. The note reflects the economic conditions of the Great Depression era, as well as the role of local banks in supporting regional economies. The note’s Fine to Very Fine condition ensures that it remains an attractive and valuable piece, offering collectors a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in U.S. history. Whether as an investment or as a historical artifact, the Vancouver $20 National Bank Note is an important and prized example of American currency from the early 20th century.