US Notes

BEP Engraving History

The Series 1886 $10 Silver Certificate: Tombstone Predecessor Designs and the Tiffany Back Varieties

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The Series 1886 $10 Silver Certificate stands among the most visually dramatic large-size notes ever produced by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing, featuring the iconic ‘Tombstone’ reverse and a suite of rare signature combinations that challenge even advanced collectors. This deep dive covers every major variety, known populations, and what separates a mediocre example from a condition-census specimen.

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The Allegorical Figure of Peace on the 1899 $5 Silver Certificate: How the BEP Paired a Native Chief with Classical Allegory

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The 1899 $5 Silver Certificate stands as one of the most artistically ambitious notes ever produced by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, combining a dignified portrait of Running Antelope with a soaring allegorical figure of Peace. Understanding the design history, signature varieties, and condition nuances of this iconic ‘Chief’ note can mean the difference between a shrewd purchase and a costly mistake.

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Trumbull’s Masterpiece in Steel: The Declaration of Independence Vignette on Large-Size US Notes

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John Trumbull’s iconic 1818 painting of the Declaration of Independence signing was translated into one of the most detailed and historically significant vignettes ever engraved for American paper money. Understanding how this image appeared across large-size notes, which engravers executed the work, and which specific varieties carry the vignette gives collectors a richer appreciation for the artistry hiding in plain sight on their notes.

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The Spread Eagle Back Designs of the 1880s United States Notes: Symbolism and Artistic Intent

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The large-size United States Notes of the 1880s featured some of the most ambitious and patriotically charged back designs ever printed on American paper money, centered on a majestic spread eagle motif that remains iconic among collectors today. This deep dive unpacks the artistic program, engraving details, series varieties, and collecting strategy for these stunning legal tender notes.

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