5 Cent Fractional 2nd Issue Wide Specimen

Fractional currency was introduced during the Civil War and were issued from Augtust 21, 1862 to 15 February 1876.  These notes were issued in denominations of 3 cent, 5 cent, 10 cent, 15 cent, 25 cent and 50 cents. 

The U.S. government hoarded coins for their bullion value and stopped exchanging paper money for silver and gold coins.  U.S. Treasurer Francis E. Spinner helped create a solution to the coin shortage with the creation of postage currency, which later led into Fractional Currency.  The introduction of these notes played a key role in economy during the Civil War.

Specimens are printed only on one side and are printed on very thin paper. These notes bear the word specimen on one side and the currency image on the other. 

Note grades About Uncirculated.  There is a small nick inthe bottom margin as well as two minor edge splits. A small amount of ink erosion causing a small hole to the right of Washington's portrait.