Series 1957B One Dollar Silver Certificate
Currency (Paper Silver-Related Financial Instrument) · The United States Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) for the Department of the Treasury.
Pattern: Series 1957B Small Size Silver Certificate - Washington Front / Great Seal Back
Type
Currency (Paper Silver-Related Financial Instrument)
Maker
The United States Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) for the Department of the Treasury.
Material
Cotton and linen paper with blue security fibers. While the note contains no physical silver, it represents a claim on one silver dollar or raw silver bullion previously held in the Treasury.
Dimensions
Small size US currency: approximately 6.14 x 2.61 inches (156 x 66 mm); weight is approximately 1 gram.
Description
A classic specimen of American numismatic history, this One Dollar Silver Certificate represents the final era of silver-backed paper currency. It features the iconic portrait of George Washington and a vibrant blue Treasury seal. Unlike modern Federal Reserve Notes with green seals, the blue ink signifies its status as a Silver Certificate, a holdover from the days of the bimetallic standard.
Key Features
The blue '1' and Treasury seal, the inscription 'Silver Certificate', and the promise 'In Silver Payable to the Bearer on Demand' (which was discontinued for later Federal Reserve notes).
Material & Composition
Cotton and linen paper with blue security fibers. While the note contains no physical silver, it represents a claim on one silver dollar or raw silver bullion previously held in the Treasury.
Finish & Decoration
Intaglio printing process; black ink on the obverse featuring George Washington; green ink on the reverse; distinct blue Treasury seal and blue serial numbers characteristic of Silver Certificates.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Serial number 'S47071966A', Treasury Seal in blue, signatures of Kathryn O'Hay Granahan (Treasurer) and C. Douglas Dillon (Secretary of the Treasury), Plate Position B3 and B743.
Construction Details
High-pressure intaglio printing on heavy-duty currency paper; features fine-line engraving and complex geometric lathe work provided by mechanical engraving machines.
Functional Features
Redeemable for silver until June 24, 1968. Now functions as legal tender at face value or as a numismatic collectible.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Currency note intended for manual handling or protective sleeve storage.
Craftsmanship Details
Exquisite lathe-work patterns (spirographs) and hand-engraved master plates used for the intaglio process, ensuring high security and aesthetic appeal characteristic of early 20th-century American banknotes.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic intaglio printing texture, correct signature combination for the 1957B series, blue security fibers embedded in paper, and crisp engraving details on Washington's portrait.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; likely Washington D.C. or Fort Worth facility (though Fort Worth began later, primary production for this era was D.C.).
Era & Period
Space Age / Mid-Century US (Late 1950s to early 1960s). This specific series reflects the transition before the removal of silver backing from US currency.
Age Estimate
Circa 1961-1963 based on the Dilion/Granahan signature combination for Series 1957B.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the transition of the US economy from commodity-backed money (silver) to fiat currency (Federal Reserve Notes). It serves as a tangible link to the US silver standard era.
Condition Notes
Very Fine to Extra Fine (VF/EF). The note shows minor vertical folds and light handling but remains crisp with strong color and no significant tears or staining. Currently protected in a rigid plastic currency holder.
Value Estimate
$3.00 to $7.00 USD in current market. Factors include 'star' serial numbers (not present here), crispness, and lack of heavy circulation folds.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in an acid-free PVC-free currency sleeve (Mylar); store in a cool, dry, dark environment to prevent fading and foxing; avoid folding or handling with bare hands to prevent oil transfer.
Similar Pieces
1957 and 1957A Series (different signatures); 1935 Series (no motto on reverse); 1928 Small Size (different seal placement); Federal Reserve Notes (green seal).
Interesting Facts
The 1957 series was the first US currency to include the motto 'In God We Trust' following a 1955 law. Collectors used to rush to banks in 1964-1968 to trade these for actual bags of silver granules.