Sometimes, old things hidden away in attics or cupboards turn out to be real treasures. This happened in New Jersey, where a forgotten piece of American money from 1890 was found and sold for a huge price—$1.4 million! What looked like just an old paper note was actually one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. Treasury Notes ever. Let’s learn more about this amazing discovery and why this old note is so special.
The Dusty Discovery in New Jersey
The story started in a regular home in New Jersey. The owner was cleaning out boxes in the attic of a house that belonged to a late family member. Inside a worn-out leather book, they found something that looked like an old banknote. It was kept with yellowed newspaper clippings and old postcards.
The owner didn’t know what it was, so they showed it to a local antique dealer. The dealer was surprised because this note was very rare and valuable. Instead of just a family keepsake, it was a Series of 1890 $100 Treasury Note—an important and rare piece of American history.
Why Is the 1890 Treasury Note So Rare?
The U.S. Treasury Notes from 1890 and 1891 are very special. People sometimes call them “Watermelon Notes” because of the big green zeros on the back that look like watermelon skin. Most of these notes were used and destroyed, so very few are left today.
What made this note even more amazing was its condition. It was never used, so it had no folds, tears, or water damage. Experts say only a few notes like this still exist, and this one was in perfect shape.
The Exciting Auction and Bidding War
After experts checked the note and confirmed it was real and in great condition, it was sent to a famous auction house. Before the sale, people guessed it would sell for between $900,000 and $1.2 million.
But when the auction started, collectors from all over the world joined the bidding, online and by phone. The price quickly went above the estimate. Finally, after a close competition, someone won the note for $1.4 million—one of the highest prices ever paid for a U.S. Treasury Note.
A Look into American Money History
This note is more than just money; it is a piece of American history. The Treasury Notes helped the U.S. economy by giving people money that could be exchanged for coins. The note’s detailed design and security features show the skill of 19th-century money makers. It tells a story about how money was made and used more than 100 years ago.
What This Discovery Teaches Us
This find reminds us that valuable things can be hiding in old houses, books, and boxes. Sometimes, people don’t realize that something old is actually very rare and worth a lot of money. Experts suggest checking old items with professionals before throwing them away.
Conclusion
The sale of this 1890 Treasury Note for $1.4 million shows that history can be right in our homes, waiting to be found. For one New Jersey family, it was an unexpected fortune. For collectors, it was a rare treasure. And for everyone else, it’s a great reminder to look carefully before tossing away old papers or keepsakes. You never know when you might find something priceless.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is the 1890 Treasury Note called a “Watermelon Note”?
Because the big green zeros on the back look like the skin of a watermelon.
2. How many of these notes still exist today?
Very few. Most were used and destroyed, so only a handful remain, especially in perfect condition.
3. Why was this note so valuable?
Its rarity, perfect condition, and historical importance made it worth $1.4 million.
4. How can someone know if an old note is valuable?
They should show it to experts or antique dealers who can check its condition and history.
5. Are there other rare U.S. currency notes like this?
Yes, there are many rare and valuable U.S. currency notes, coins, and collectibles from history.
