1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate F

Qty	Wire/Check	Bitcoin	CC/PayPal
Any	$75.00	$75.75	$78.00

The 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate is one of the most unique and historically significant pieces of U.S. paper currency. Part of the 1935 series, this note was issued during a period of great global conflict, and it holds particular importance due to its connection to World War II. The "North Africa" designation refers to the overprint added to certain currency notes that were issued specifically for use in the North African theater during the war. This special overprint was introduced as a precautionary measure to prevent enemy forces from using U.S. currency if they occupied these territories. The 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate, in Fine (F) condition, provides a tangible link to both wartime security efforts and the development of U.S. currency design during the mid-20th century.

The 1935 series of Silver Certificates was part of the ongoing effort by the U.S. government to stabilize the economy and create reliable, silver-backed currency. These certificates were issued as a promise that the bearer could exchange the paper note for an equivalent amount of silver, ensuring the value of the dollar was backed by the U.S. Treasury's silver reserves. The 1935A version of the $1 note, issued in 1935, was part of the last series of Silver Certificates to feature the large "Hawaii" and "North Africa" overprints. These overprints were added as security measures in the event of potential wartime conditions. As such, the 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate is an extremely rare and historically significant note, particularly due to its wartime origins and its distinctive overprint.

The obverse of the 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate features the well-known portrait of George Washington, the first president of the United States. Washington’s image has been featured on U.S. currency for more than a century, and it continues to symbolize the nation’s founding principles and ideals. The engraving is rich in detail, depicting Washington in a dignified and commanding pose. Surrounding his portrait are the words "UNITED STATES NOTE" at the top and "ONE DOLLAR" at the bottom, with the inscription "SILVER CERTIFICATE" prominently displayed across the middle of the note. The addition of the large overprint "NORTH AFRICA" in bold letters across the face of the note is the defining feature of this particular series. The overprint was printed in a deep red ink and served to make the note easily identifiable if it were captured by enemy forces during the war.

In addition to the overprint, the note features the signature of the U.S. Treasury Secretary and Treasurer at the time, adding an additional layer of authenticity to the currency. The large and prominent "SILVER CERTIFICATE" inscription assures the holder that the note is backed by silver, further emphasizing the trust in the U.S. financial system during this time of economic uncertainty and international conflict. On the reverse of the 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate, the design features the familiar depiction of the U.S. Treasury Building, a symbol of the nation's financial strength and authority. The Treasury Building is flanked by the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" at the top, with "IN GOD WE TRUST" printed at the bottom. The simple yet elegant reverse reinforces the security and legitimacy of the currency, ensuring its acceptance and recognition across the country and abroad.

The 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate was produced by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, which was responsible for designing and printing U.S. paper currency at the time. The note was created using advanced engraving techniques, which allowed for sharp, clear details that were both aesthetically pleasing and highly secure. The Bureau’s engravers carefully worked to ensure that the notes were not only functional but also difficult to counterfeit. The inclusion of the red ink overprint was a deliberate design choice, allowing the note to stand out for its special use in wartime conditions. This design choice reflects the national priority placed on safeguarding U.S. currency during a period of global conflict.

The mintage of the 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate was significant, with millions of these notes printed for circulation. However, as with many wartime issues, a substantial portion of the notes was either destroyed or replaced after the war ended, and many were lost or damaged due to regular use in circulation. The high level of wear on many of these notes further contributes to the rarity of surviving examples, especially those in higher grades. Because the note was used extensively in various regions of North Africa during the war, the number of surviving notes in well-preserved condition is limited, making the 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate highly desirable among collectors.

In Fine (F) condition, the 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate shows significant signs of circulation, but it retains much of its structural integrity. The note in this grade may exhibit creases, folds, and some edge wear, typical for currency that was used extensively in daily transactions. There may also be some minor staining or discoloration from exposure to dirt or handling over the years. However, the primary design elements remain visible and identifiable, including the bold "NORTH AFRICA" overprint, the portrait of George Washington, and the Treasury Building on the reverse. In this condition, the note offers collectors a rare and tangible connection to a significant period in American history, despite the wear and tear from use.

The 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate in Fine condition is still a valuable item for collectors, particularly those focused on U.S. wartime currency or the history of the Gold Standard and Silver Certificates. The note’s historical importance, due to its connection to the North African theater during World War II, and its design elements make it a fascinating addition to any collection. While higher-grade notes will command a premium price, the Fine condition offers an accessible option for collectors who want to own a piece of this important chapter in U.S. monetary history without paying the higher costs associated with uncirculated or near-mint examples.

The 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate is also prized for its unique design and the rarity of surviving notes from this series. The red overprint is particularly significant, as it reflects the government’s wartime efforts to prevent the capture and use of U.S. currency by enemy forces. The overprint was part of a broader strategy to safeguard U.S. financial assets, and the issuance of these notes in North Africa highlights the global scope of the war and the U.S. government’s concern for the security of its currency in distant theaters of conflict. This note serves as a historical artifact, showcasing the relationship between wartime concerns and the design of U.S. paper currency.

For collectors of U.S. currency, the 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate is an important and unique piece that connects directly to both American wartime history and the evolution of currency design. The distinctive red overprint, the connection to the U.S. military efforts in North Africa, and its place within the broader context of the 1935 series make this note a highly desirable and valuable collectible. Whether as part of a complete set of U.S. Silver Certificates or as a standalone piece, the 1935A $1 North Africa Silver Certificate offers collectors a window into the past, representing the resilience of U.S. currency during a time of global crisis.