The U.S. Note is considered one of the earliest types of paper currency issued from the American government. The Series of 1917 $2 Legal Tender note was issued between 1862 and 1971, and is coveted by many collectors, especially if it’s in Very Fine condition.

Currency Highlights

Due to their age and delicate condition, these notes are typically shipped inside a durable currency plastic sleeve. It is a large size note with a $2 face value, and on the obverse side you can see a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, who was the third President of the United States from 1801 until 1809. An image of the American Capitol Building can also be seen in the center.

In the reverse side, an intricate design can be viewed along with the note denomination that is marked. It should also be noted that these bills come with 4 distinct signature combinations. Because these bills were circulated well over 100 years ago, it is rare to find specimens that are in perfect condition. Most will display mild to light wear with fold lines and slight soiling. The most sought after Very Fine units will have no more than seven to ten folds.

These notes use an edge design which is smooth. They were accepted for U.S. commerce for approximately one hundred and nine years. The contemporary U.S. Fed Note is expected to finally surpass U.S. notes by 2024, which has made these notes more sought after by collectors. It should also be noted that in the reverse side, the number “2” is centrally located with a text denomination that is printed below and above. An Arabic numeral for “2” can also be viewed in the 4 corners.

Background

Back in 1917 American notes were issued with Register of Treasury signatures, as well as those from the U.S. Treasurer. The signature combinations would vary dependent on who held the post. During the 1917 issue four potential signature combinations could be present; along with a Treasury seal printed using reddish ink and serial numbers. The Thomas Jefferson portrait which appears on the 1917 version is nearly identical to that which appears in the 1869 release.

Thomas Jefferson is considered one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Prior to becoming President he served as Vice President when John Adams was the Commander in Chief and would also serve as Secretary of State during the George Washington Administration. Jefferson has the distinction of authoring the Declaration of Independence, and during his lifetime was a supporter of individual rights, prompting the American colonies to separate themselves from Great Britain so that a new nation could be formed.

During the American Revolution he would represent Virginia and was a legislator there. In this capacity he drafted laws enabling religious freedom and would become Virginia’s second governor between 1779 and 1781. After becoming president he would secure America’s trade and shipping interests against British trade aggression along with the Barbary pirates, and would promote expansion into the Western North America via the Louisiana Purchase.