Description: South Carolina, Charleston $5 Obsolete Currency 1850s PMG 12 Fine Pick# SC30G34a Rare - Only 11 Examples Graded Higher by PMGPresenting a rare and historically significant $5 banknote from Charleston, South Carolina, issued during the 1850s. Graded by PMG as Fine 12, this note stands out with only 11 examples graded higher by PMG, making it a valuable piece for collectors of U.S. Obsolete Currency and those interested in the financial history of South Carolina.The design of this $5 note features detailed engravings and classical motifs emblematic of the mid-19th century. Issued by a Charleston-based institution, this note served as an essential financial instrument in a bustling port city that was a vital hub for trade and commerce in the antebellum South. Its survival through the years highlights its importance as a relic of a transformative era in American history.Historical Background of Charleston’s Banking SystemCharleston, South Carolina, was a major economic and cultural center in the 19th century, renowned for its vibrant trade networks and thriving local economy. Banks in Charleston issued their own currency to meet the growing demand for financial resources, facilitating both regional and international commerce. This $5 note is an example of the local banknotes that were critical to sustaining economic activity in the pre-Civil War South.The issuance of this note occurred in an era before the establishment of a standardized national currency. Each state-chartered bank created its own distinct designs, reflecting the local pride and economic significance of the issuing institution. Today, these surviving notes are rare and highly collectible, offering a glimpse into the financial practices of a bygone era.Key Features: Issuer: Local Bank, Charleston, South Carolina Denomination: $5 Time Period: 1850s, pre-National Banking era Grade: PMG 12 Fine Catalog Reference: Pick# SC30G34a Scarcity: Only 11 examples graded higher by PMG Collectibility: High due to its rarity, historical value, and connection to South Carolina’s economic historyInvestment Potential of Obsolete BanknotesObsolete banknotes like this $5 note from Charleston represent a unique opportunity for collectors and investors to own tangible pieces of American history. With only 11 examples graded higher, this note is a rare find that combines historical significance with investment potential. The market for high-quality obsolete currency continues to grow as collectors recognize the limited supply and rich narratives behind these artifacts.This note’s rarity, combined with its historical context and solid grade, makes it an excellent candidate for long-term value appreciation. Collectors value such notes for their artistic craftsmanship and the stories they tell about America’s financial evolution. By acquiring this $5 note, you are preserving a piece of Charleston’s economic heritage while adding a valuable and tangible asset to your collection.Buy It Now to secure this rare and historically significant banknote, and add a valuable piece of South Carolina’s financial history to your collection today!Journey Into Obsolete Banknotes: A Collector's Tale and Investment Opportunity Welcome to the fascinating world of Obsolete US Banknotes, a captivating area of American financial history that beckons both seasoned investors and passionate collectors alike. These unique banknotes, often referred to as Obsolete Bank Notes or Broken Bank Notes, were issued between the early 1800s and 1866 by private banks, state-chartered institutions, and local authorities across a diverse set of states, from: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin. This era of localized currency marks an unforgettable chapter in the history of America's development, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit, economic dreams, and occasional pitfalls of a rapidly expanding nation. The Appeal to Collectors and Investors The allure of obsolete banknotes lies not only in their scarcity but also in their extraordinary artistic designs, which reflect the values, occupations, and aspirations of early America. Many of these banknotes depict stunning vignettes of agricultural life, steamships, Native American scenes, and classical allegory. The stories behind each issue—of banks that thrived, those that failed, and those that vanished without a trace—are part of what makes these notes truly compelling for collectors. As a result, obsolete banknotes from states like Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana, and Arkansas have steadily gained value over time, attracting both enthusiasts and those interested in alternative investment vehicles. The collector-investor crossover is an exciting dimension of obsolete currency. When you acquire an obsolete banknote, you're not just buying a piece of paper—you're acquiring a slice of Americana, a relic from a time when trust in local banks was paramount. These unique banknotes offer not only historical insight but also the potential for significant appreciation. Recent auction sales have demonstrated this promise: a scarce Obsolete Louisiana $5 banknote from the early 1850s recently fetched over $18,000 at a major auction, while a rare Ohio private bank issue achieved a record of $22,500. It’s the thrill of finding these hidden gems that draws collectors and investors alike into this world of forgotten currencies. The Collector's Story: An Unexpected Find Consider the story of one determined collector: visiting a small-town estate sale in Vermont, he stumbled upon a seemingly inconspicuous banknote issued by the Northwestern Bank of Virginia in 1861. Listed for just $75, the note bore the hallmarks of a rare issue, thanks to its low serial number and crisp condition. Trusting his gut, he purchased the note, only to find months later—after it was authenticated and graded—that its market value exceeded $7,500! This kind of success story is not uncommon for those who delve into obsolete banknotes with a discerning eye and a bit of courage. Why PMG Graded Obsolete Banknotes Are a Wise Choice When purchasing obsolete banknotes, it is important to prioritize quality and authenticity. That’s where PMG (Paper Money Guaranty) grading becomes a significant asset. PMG-graded banknotes ensure that the notes have been authenticated, accurately graded, and preserved for the long term. Obsolete notes often face challenges like counterfeiting and degradation over time; by buying PMG-certified notes, collectors and investors can be confident they are getting precisely what is advertised. Additionally, graded banknotes consistently outperform ungraded ones at auction, as they have verifiable condition and authenticity—a key factor that drives higher value and ensures a trustworthy investment. Investing in PMG graded Obsolete Banknotes provides peace of mind, ensures quality, and opens the door to both passionate collecting and profitable reselling. Each graded note tells its own story, a narrative woven into the very fabric of America's development from a patchwork of state-issued money into a unified national system. Collectors can take pride in safeguarding these forgotten currencies, while investors recognize the unique opportunity to diversify their portfolios with historically significant and highly collectible items. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ What Makes Bloc Galleries Special? At Bloc Galleries, we don’t just sell collectibles – we live them. What makes us different? It’s our passion, our people, and our relentless commitment to making your collecting experience not just good but great. Here’s what sets us apart: Our Money-Back Guarantee We offer 100% seller paid returns, our money-back guarantee is simple, if the item isn’t quite what you expected, you can return it for any reason. We’re here to make sure your collecting experience is fun, exciting, and, above all, satisfying. You’re not just buying from us – you’re embarking on a collecting adventure with us by your side. At Bloc Galleries, we’re committed to offering the finest collectibles, backed by a team that’s always ready to make sure your experience is nothing short of outstanding. We know that when it comes to collectibles, photos and descriptions might not always match your exact expectations. We handle tens of thousands of items each year, and sometimes mistakes happen. If we ever mix up a listing or a photo, we’ll go the extra mile to make it right – even if it means offering a better grade or condition at the same or lower price. We’re all about turning those occasional hiccups into win-win moments for you. Not completely satisfied? You’ll get a full refund, including return shipping, on us. Just let us know (via eBay, phone, or text) before leaving feedback – we’re here to make things right. Our Team At Bloc Galleries, we believe that extraordinary things are only achieved by extraordinary people. We’re not just employees – we’re collectors, just like you. Each banknote, artifact, or treasure has a story, and we’re as invested in discovering and sharing these stories as you are. We pour in not just hours but heart, energy, and dedication. Sure, we’re human, and sometimes we stumble, but our commitment to always do right by you never falters. We’re not just here to sell – we’re here to join you on this exciting collecting journey. And if we ever mess up? We make it right – even if it costs us, because we’re in this for the long haul. Vast Acquisitions, Unbeatable Pricing Every quarter, we acquire tens of thousands of banknotes, leveraging our global network to source inventory you won’t find anywhere else. By buying in bulk, we’re able to pass on deep savings to you. Quality notes, below market prices – that’s just how we roll. The Thrill of Discovery We’re not about overly cataloging and pre-screening every item. Instead, our streamlined team focuses on curating auction lots with a sense of adventure. Our unsearched, high-grade currency lots are brimming with hidden gems, and our customers are continually amazed at the incredible finds they’ve snagged. Every bid is an opportunity to unearth something truly special. Customer-Friendly Bidding Our auctions kick off with low opening bids and no reserve pricing, making the experience transparent, exciting, and accessible for all. Whether you’re bidding on one item or twenty, we’ve got you covered with our flat shipping rate. Simplified Shipping, Maximum Value Shipping? We keep it simple. For just $6.50, for purchases made the same day (24 Hours) we’ll ship your treasure trove safely to your door. And yes, that flat rate covers combined shipping, whether you win one item or 25. We’ve got your back. Shipping & Handling We take shipping seriously. Our team carefully packages and ships items twice weekly, ensuring your orders arrive safely and promptly. Based in the heart of the U.S. (Fargo, ND), we typically see short delivery times, and for orders over $200, we include tracking for extra peace of mind. •Flat Rate Shipping: $6.50 for all domestic orders, including combined shipping on multiple items.•International Orders: We primarily use eBay’s Global Shipping Program, with an average rate of about $14 for international shipments. If costs are significantly higher, we’ll reach out to you. Note that international returns are not accepted, and customs regulations may apply. International Purchases For our international customers, we typically use eBay’s Global Shipping Program, which provides reliable shipping at a reasonable cost (around $14 on average). However, if the rate is higher, we’ll let you know. Combined orders will receive a custom shipping quote, but please note we do not offer free shipping on international orders. Make sure to check your country’s customs and regulations as international returns are not accepted. Payment & Cancellations We totally get that life happens. If you need extra time, no worries – just let us know! However, all unpaid orders will be automatically canceled after 5 days. Keep in touch if you need assistance, and we’ll work with you. Why Bloc Galleries? It’s simple. We’re passionate about what we do, and we want to make sure you are, too. Our auctions are more than just sales – they’re an adventure. Join us every week for your chance to discover new treasures and experience a team that’s here to make your collecting journey fun, exciting, and stress-free. Bloc Galleries – where discovery meets passion, and your satisfaction is our mission. ____________________________________________________________________________________________ The Secret of a "Catsgiving" - Did You See Cats Last Night? In the quiet corners of Bloc Galleries, where history whispers from each collectible, two enigmatic felines hold court. Gertrude, with her elegant white coat, and Pete, 'The Man Cat', in his tuxedo attire, materialize each evening as the sun dips below the horizon. No one knows where they hail from—perhaps an alternative universe—but their vigilant eyes never miss a detail. At precisely 3:33 AM, under the soft glow of the moon, an extraordinary event unfolds. For a fleeting 15 minutes, they speak. Yes, speak! With articulate English accents, they offer a running commentary on the day's work, sparing no one from their sharp, albeit humorous, observations on our numismatic endeavors. "Another misaligned watermark?" Gertrude would quip, her tail flicking with amusement. Pete, ever the diplomat, might chime in, "Splendid effort on the cataloging, though, truly!" Their critiques, always laced with wit, leave us in chuckles and chagrins alike. But as the clock ticks towards 4:00 AM, their words fade into the ether, and the memory of their eloquence evaporates like mist. By 5:00 AM, they are but silent sentinels once again, and with the first light of dawn, they vanish, leaving behind just a hint of their presence in photos they've graced. A Thanksgiving Extravaganza - Curated Secrets from the Attic Pete and Gertrude, ever the curious and cunning duo, have been working on something truly special. This Thanksgiving, they decided it was the perfect time to reveal their Thanksgiving Extravaganza—a secret stash of unique treasures that they had cleverly hidden away in the attic for years, just waiting for the right moment to share them with our loyal customers. From glittering artifacts to rare notes, the cats knew exactly what would dazzle our bidders. After all, who better to curate an auction than two feline aficionados with an eye for hidden gems? These special items, kept under wraps until now, are being offered exclusively during our Black Friday Auction and through the Thanksgiving weekend, leading to a grand culmination on Cyber Monday. Pete and Gertrude’s whimsical touch means each item comes with an extra sprinkle of magic and intrigue—these are items that have never been seen before, each with its own story, carefully picked by our furry guardians. Legend has it that Gertrude and Pete are the guardians of good fortune at Bloc Galleries. They watch over the collections, ensuring each piece carries with it a sprinkle of their mystical charm. If you happen upon their image nestled within a listing, take it as a sign: the cats approve, and perhaps luck will favor your bids. If you win an auction and send us a message about Pete and Gertrude, we’ll send a special surprise, directly from Pete’s secret stash—he always has an eye for something extraordinary.
Price: 199.95 USD
Location: Fargo, North Dakota
End Time: 2025-01-09T14:00:41.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Denomination: $5
Type: Banknotes
Certification Number: 2193018-071
Grade: 12
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
Certification: PMG