1914 $5 Federal Reserve Note, Blue Seal, New York – Unique “Christmas Gift” Inscription (Fr. #850)

Here is a detailed description you can use for your listing. It incorporates all the information we’ve confirmed about the note, including its specific details and unique history.

1914 $5 Federal Reserve Note, Blue Seal, New York – Unique “Christmas Gift” Inscription (Fr. #850)

Item Description:

This is a classic “horse blanket” style 1914 Series Five Dollar Federal Reserve Note from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, a popular and historic piece of American currency.

This specific banknote, cataloged as a Friedberg #850, is identifiable by its blue seal and the signatures of John Burke as Treasurer of the United States and D.F. Houston as Secretary of the Treasury. The serial number is B957469B.

What makes this particular note unique is its incredible personal history, documented in a handwritten inscription on the back. The note was preserved as a personal keepsake, a “Christmas Present from H.B.V. & G.E.C.” on “December 25, 1956.”

Condition: The note is in circulated condition, showing multiple folds, creases, and general wear consistent with its age. The inscription on the back, while a fascinating piece of the note’s history, is considered “graffiti” or damage from a numismatic grading perspective. This damage significantly affects its collectible value to those who prioritize pristine condition.

Valuation: Despite the damage, this note remains a tangible piece of American history with a compelling story. Its value is primarily driven by its unique provenance rather than its grade. Due to the personal inscription, the estimated value for a collector is in the range of $20 to $50, placing it in line with a heavily circulated note of this type.

Key Features for Your Listing:

• Year: 1914
• Denomination: $5
• Federal Reserve District: New York (2-B)
• Friedberg (Fr.) Number: #850
• Signatures: Burke-Houston
• Condition: Circulated, with significant graffiti/inscription damage.
• Unique Feature: Personal inscription on the back with a confirmed date of December 25, 1956.

Note from Paul: All the images were uploaded to Gemini AI to create this listing. I’ve been using Gemini for a little while now and love it, but tonight was my first time just sending Gemini the images. An interesting conversation ensued. I actually had a good time creating this lot! My version of the graffiti is: “December 25 1956 xmas present from HBV & GEC” although I’m not certain about those initials.