United States Series 1957A $1 Silver Certificate
Currency (Note representing physical silver) · Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), U.S. Department of the Treasury
Pattern: Series 1957A Small-Size One Dollar Note
Type
Currency (Note representing physical silver)
Maker
Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), U.S. Department of the Treasury
Material
Paper (75% cotton, 25% linen fibers) with blue security threads; historically exchangeable for silver bullion or coin
Dimensions
Approximately 6.14 x 2.61 inches; standard small-size US currency weight
Description
A mid-century US One Dollar Silver Certificate featuring George Washington. These notes were unique as they promised 'One Dollar in Silver Payable to the Bearer on Demand.'
Key Features
Distinctive blue Treasury seal and serial numbers; 'Silver Certificate' text at top center
Material & Composition
Paper (75% cotton, 25% linen fibers) with blue security threads; historically exchangeable for silver bullion or coin
Finish & Decoration
Intaglio printing; features blue Treasury seal and blue serial numbers (B85402015A)
Hallmarks & Stamps
Signatures of Elizabeth Rudel Smith (Treasurer) and C. Douglas Dillon (Secretary of the Treasury)
Construction Details
High-pressure intaglio engraving process on specialized security paper
Functional Features
Legal tender for all debts, public and private; historically a redemption receipt for silver
Handle & Grip Details
Housed in a rigid clear plastic protective currency sleeve (top-loader)
Craftsmanship Details
Precision fine-line engraving used to prevent counterfeiting; microscopic detail in the Great Seal on the reverse
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Treasury blue ink, intaglio 'raised' ink feel (if felt), correct signature combinations for Series 1957A
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, Washington D.C. (Bureau of Engraving and Printing)
Era & Period
Cold War Era / Mid-Century America (Treasury period of silver redemption)
Age Estimate
Produced circa 1961-1962 (based on signatures and Series 1957A designation)
Cultural Significance
Represents the final era of the U.S. dollar being directly backed by and exchangeable for physical silver metal
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; visible vertical/horizontal folds, slight discoloration/soiling, and corner wear; Good to Very Good (G-VG) grade
Value Estimate
$2.00 - $5.00 USD (nominal premium over face value due to circulated condition)
Care & Maintenance
Keep in acid-free PVC-free currency holders; avoid direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent paper rot or fading
Similar Pieces
Series 1935 Silver Certificates (no 'In God We Trust'), 1957 First Issue, or 1957B notes
Interesting Facts
The 1963 Act stopped the exchange for silver; the very last day to redeem these for silver bullion was June 24, 1968