Award-winning author and renowned numismatist Q. David Bowers invites readers into the rich and visually captivating world of obsolete currency, the paper money issued by thousands of state-chartered banks, towns, and private institutions before the establishment of a national monetary system, in Obsolete Paper Money Issued by Banks in United States: 1782 - 1866. In this authoritative and engaging work, Bowers traces the origins of American paper money from its earliest use in the thirteen colonies through the dynamic economic landscape of the 18th and 19th centuries, culminating in the Civil War era. These notes—often beautifully engraved and locally issued—played a critical role in everyday commerce and are now treasured artifacts of American history.
Through vivid storytelling and historical analysis, Bowers brings to life the personalities, politics, and economic forces behind obsolete banknotes, offering readers a deeper appreciation for these colorful relics of the past. The book features hundreds of illustrations, insights into collecting, and commentary on note design, printing technology, and monetary policy.
With a foreword by legendary collector and scholar Eric P. Newman, this volume stands as a foundational reference for collectors, historians, and anyone intrigued by the story of America’s early money. It is a perfect introduction to the subject and an ideal companion to the later Whitman Encyclopedia of Obsolete Paper Money series.
