1880 United States $5 Legal Tender PMG 64CU Woodchopper (Fr. 79) RED OVERPRINT

This 1880 $5 Legal Tender Note (Fr. 79) is a sought-after example of the famous "Woodchopper" Five, a design cherished by collectors for its detailed engraving and historical significance. Graded PMG Choice Uncirculated 64, this note retains bright, original paper quality and features a bold red overprint that enhances its visual appeal. The Fr. 79 variety is a better Friedberg number, making it an especially desirable addition to any high-end collection of classic U.S. currency.

Historical Significance

The Woodchopper Five is one of the most recognizable and iconic designs in U.S. paper money history. Issued as part of the Legal Tender series, this note was printed during a time when the U.S. was still adjusting to the economic impact of the Civil War and the transition to a more unified national currency system. The 1880 series maintained the beloved "Woodchopper" vignette, which had been introduced in 1869, and featured an updated red Treasury seal and serial numbers.

Design and Features

• Obverse:

  • The central vignette depicts a pioneer family, with a bearded frontiersman standing confidently with an axe (the "Woodchopper") as his wife and young child sit beside him, symbolizing the hard-working American spirit.
  • To the left, a large red Treasury seal and serial numbers create a striking contrast against the black and green engraving.
  • The note prominently features the portrait of Andrew Jackson to the right, honoring the seventh President of the United States.

• Reverse:

  • A beautifully ornate green design with intricate scrollwork and the large "FIVE" denomination at the center.
  • Classic early U.S. currency flourishes and symmetrical patterns, reinforcing the note’s elegant craftsmanship.

Collector’s Value

High-grade examples of the 1880 $5 Woodchopper Legal Tender Note are increasingly difficult to find, especially in Choice Uncirculated 64 condition. The bold red overprint and bright, original paper make this note stand out as a premium collectible. As a better Friedberg number, Fr. 79 is a noteworthy variety for serious collectors of early U.S. paper money. Whether for investment or historical appreciation, this piece represents an essential part of 19th-century American numismatics.