Introduction
1928 was an eventful year in American history. It marked the beginning of the Great Depression and the end of the Roaring Twenties. It was also the year when the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing started printing a new type of currency - the silver certificate. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of the 1928 silver certificate.
What is a Silver Certificate?
A silver certificate was a type of paper currency that was backed by silver. The U.S. government issued silver certificates from 1878 to 1964. The certificates were redeemable for silver coins or silver bullion. The 1928 silver certificate was the last type of silver certificate that was issued in small-size notes.
Sample 1928 Silver Certificates
There were three different varieties of the 1928 silver certificate:
1928 $1 Silver Certificate - Funny Back
The 1928 $1 silver certificate is also known as the "Funny Back" due to the design of the reverse side. The reverse side features an intricate design of stars and circles that resembles a maze. The design was intended to prevent counterfeiting.
1928 $1 Silver Certificate - Blue Seal
The 1928 $1 silver certificate with a blue seal is also known as the "Educational Series" due to the design of the obverse side. The obverse side features a portrait of George Washington and an allegorical figure of History. The blue seal indicates that the certificate was backed by silver.
1928 $5 Silver Certificate - Red Seal
The 1928 $5 silver certificate with a red seal is also known as the "Red Seal Five" due to the color of the seal. The obverse side features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, while the reverse side features a design of the Lincoln Memorial.
Tips for Collecting 1928 Silver Certificates
If you are interested in collecting 1928 silver certificates, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Buy from reputable dealers: Make sure to buy from dealers who have a good reputation and are members of professional organizations.
- Check the condition: The value of a silver certificate depends on its condition. Look for notes that are in good condition with minimal damage or wear.
- Focus on rare varieties: Some varieties of 1928 silver certificates are rarer than others. Focus on collecting these rare varieties to increase the value of your collection.
FAQs About 1928 Silver Certificates
1. Are 1928 silver certificates still legal tender?
No, 1928 silver certificates are no longer legal tender. They were replaced by Federal Reserve notes in 1964.
2. What is the value of a 1928 silver certificate?
The value of a 1928 silver certificate depends on its condition and rarity. Some notes may be worth only a few dollars, while others can be worth thousands of dollars.
3. How were silver certificates used?
Silver certificates were used as a form of currency. They could be used to pay for goods and services, or they could be exchanged for silver coins or bullion.
4. Why were silver certificates discontinued?
Silver certificates were discontinued because the U.S. government stopped redeeming them for silver in 1968. The government also stopped issuing them in favor of Federal Reserve notes.
5. How many 1928 silver certificates were printed?
The exact number of 1928 silver certificates that were printed is unknown. However, millions of notes were printed for each variety.
6. Can you still redeem a 1928 silver certificate for silver?
No, you cannot redeem a 1928 silver certificate for silver. The U.S. government stopped redeeming them for silver in 1968.
7. What makes a 1928 silver certificate valuable?
The value of a 1928 silver certificate depends on its rarity and condition. Some varieties are rarer than others, and notes that are in good condition are more valuable than those with damage or wear.
Tags:
1928 silver certificate, paper currency, U.S. government, silver coins, silver bullion, Great Depression, Roaring Twenties, U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing, small-size notes, Funny Back, Blue Seal, Educational Series, Red Seal, Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, History, Lincoln Memorial, collecting, rare varieties, legal tender, Federal Reserve notes, currency, redeeming, printing, value, condition, rarity
