The Q. David Bowers Reference Collection Obsolete Paper Money · Part II
Some Comments from the Consignor

Welcome to Part II of my Reference Collection of Obsolete Paper Money, an Internet Sale, the first in a series to be presented by Stack’s. Offered are over 150 interesting and affordable notes from a wide variety of issuers. I have acquired these over a period of time to aid in research and study, including in the publication of my recent Whitman book, Obsolete Paper Money Issued by Banks in the United States 1782-1866, obtainable from us for $69.95 plus shipping (I will autograph a copy on request, and your complete satisfaction is guaranteed), or from numismatic booksellers and bookstores nationwide. In gathering these notes I have sought a combination of history and romance, combined with importance in the banking and financial world, attractiveness of design, and, often, rarity—the last creating an opportunity that should not be missed.

Today, obsolete paper money offers what I consider to be an exceedingly attractive advantage for astute collectors. Market-wise it reminds me of what colonial coins were like in the 1950s—many items offered for sale, a rather small population of collectors, and prices that today in retrospect seem to be incredible bargains. In the present sale, hardly any notes are “common” in relation to United States coins. Even the most plentiful variety by numismatic standards is rare in comparison to popular 20th-century coins, for example.

After each note I have given an estimated bid, with the lower figure generally representing my cost of acquisition, sometimes dating back a long time. This will represent the starting bid for each lot. Most are inexpensive, with starting prices in the tens of dollars. Once the starting bid is met or exceeded—and you can watch progress on the Internet—you know the note will be sold, hopefully to you.

I appreciate your interest in the offering to follow and wish you the best of success in obtaining the notes that attract or intrigue you the most, keeping in mind that I enjoyed them myself when they were in my possession. Few areas of numismatic Americana offer more beauty, history, and rarity combined with attractive purchase opportunities.

Best wishes.

Dave Bowers