Auction Name: 2026 January 13 - 16 FUN U.S. Currency Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 22012

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/3600*22012

Fr. UNL Hessler USE6 $5 1862 Legal Tender Face Essay PCGS Banknote Extremely Fine 40 Details.
An avantgarde design for the times prepared by an unknown artist. This is the plate note on page 26 of Hessler's second edition. Other owners through the years are Harry E. Jones and The Caine Collection. The vignette is open to different interpretations, but Hessler suggests that the male in French attire at left is offering the Louisiana Purchase to America as portrayed by the Native American female at right. At center is a bust of Washington in front of an eagle. Behind them is Loyalty, Liberty, Mercury, Peace, Agriculture, and Justice or Mechanics depending on the instrument in her hand. It is printed on India paper with as made ink smears. Two other Face Essays of this design are known, but mounted on card. The example in this lot has been severed and reattached with small tape repairs. Nonetheless, an engrossing design that never got beyond the design stage.

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