1882 US San Francisco CA $5 Brown Back OMG 64 National Currency Fr.475 Red Seal

1882 US San Francisco CA $5 Brown Back OMG 64 National Currency Fr.475 Red Seal

A stunning survivor from California’s banking past, this 1882 $5 Brown Back National Currency Note was issued by The San Francisco National Bank under Charter #5096, cataloged as Friedberg 475, and graded PMG Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ. With its vivid inks, strong embossing, and crisp original paper, this note beautifully represents the height of artistry and confidence in late 19th-century American banking.

Authenticity

Certified by PMG (Paper Money Guaranty) as Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ, this note is guaranteed authentic and unaltered, with Exceptional Paper Quality & Embossing noted on the reverse label. The EPQ designation affirms that the paper retains its full originality, natural texture, and embossing — a mark of a well-preserved, untouched piece of numismatic history.

Historical Significance

Issued during the Second Charter Period (1882–1908), this note circulated in the thriving economic center of San Francisco, California’s gateway to the Pacific and hub of post–Gold Rush commerce. The San Francisco National Bank was a prominent financial institution serving shipping magnates, merchants, and railroad investors at the height of California’s industrial and maritime expansion.

The Brown Back design type was introduced in 1882, featuring large, ornate “charter number” back engravings and state-specific elements — making these notes both regionally and nationally significant. California issues are among the most desirable of the series, especially in uncirculated grades, as few have survived the rigors of circulation.

Design and Features

The obverse (face) of the note presents a stately portrait of President James A. Garfield, framed by detailed floral engravings and intricate linework. The red Treasury Seal, brown overprint, and striking bank title “The San Francisco National Bank” dominate the center, with the charter number 5096 appearing prominently in red ink. The signatures of Tillman (Register) and Roberts (Treasurer) complete the federal validation.

The reverse (back) showcases one of the most ornate designs of the Brown Back era — a bold green charter number “5096” within a complex geometric pattern, flanked by a vignette of California’s state seal featuring “Eureka” and the bear on the left, and an American eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch on the right. The deep brown underprint and exquisite detailing highlight the precision and artistry of 19th-century U.S. engraving.

Key Details:

• Denomination: $5

• Type: 1882 Brown Back National Bank Note

• Bank: The San Francisco National Bank, California

• Charter Number: 5096

• Friedberg Number: Fr. 475

• Signatures: Tillman | Roberts

• Serial Number: T590310T / Plate 9882 pp D

• Grade: PMG 64 EPQ – Choice Uncirculated

• Special Notation: Exceptional Paper Quality & Embossing

Collector’s Value

Brown Backs from California are among the most sought-after of all National Bank issues, and this PMG 64 EPQ example from San Francisco sits at the upper tier of known survivors. With its perfect margins, crisp color contrast, and outstanding originality, it represents an ideal blend of rarity and condition. For collectors of Western Nationals or 19th-century U.S. banknotes, this note offers both prestige and long-term desirability — a superb centerpiece for any advanced National Currency collection.