New Jersey £6 note

DateApril 12, 1757

Printer James Parker

MediumEngraved and printed in black, red & green

DimensionsWidth: 4" Height: 2 1/8"

Credit LineGift of the Lasser family.

Object number1994-210,489

DescriptionCurrency. "SIX Pounds. This Bill by Law shall pass current in New-Jersey, for Seventeen OUNCES Ten Penny-weight of Silver. April 12, 1757. SIX Pounds." Face printed in red and black, back with sage leaf printed in green: "To counterfeit is DEATH. WOODBRIDGE, Printed by J. Parker."
Label TextWhile paper money wasn't invented in America, it's use in the colonies became widespread. Since Massachusetts' inaugural issue in 1690, the American economy has relied on the use of currency for purchases both large and small. It has become an integral part of our culture, and it shouldn't be surprising that some paper money "firsts" occurred before the end of the Revolutionary War.

Nineteenth-century Americans had lots of names for their currency, like "shin plasters," "saddle blankets," and "greenbacks." Today's "greenbacks" trace their origins to the £6 note issued by New Jersey in the spring of 1757, which was the first to have a back side printed in green ink.

MarkingsSignatures: "Thos Hartshorne, S Nevill, A Johnston". Serial Number: "50?".

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