Fr.1133-L 1918 $100 Federal Reserve Note San Francisco, PMG 25
This listing is for sale ONE note ONLY. The scanned image displayed the front and back of the exact note you will receive.
Offered for the first time on our site, this note represents a truly special opportunity—not just for our collectors, but for us as well. While we’ve handled dozens of high-denomination small-size notes over the years, this is the first time we’re able to showcase a large-size high-denomination note, making it a milestone offering in our inventory.
The front of this 1918 $1,000 Federal Reserve Note features a finely engraved portrait of Alexander Hamilton, the first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, prominently centered within a detailed oval frame. The portrait, engraved by G.F.C. Smillie, is surrounded by elaborate scrollwork and intricate border design elements. The serial number is printed in blue ink and repeated twice on the face. Denomination indicators “1000” appear in all four corners, and the words “The United States of America” are boldly printed across the top.
The reverse of this 1918 $1,000 note features a bold engraving of a bald eagle with outstretched wings, perched on an olive branch—symbolizing strength and freedom during the World War I era. Designed by Marcus Baldwin, the eagle is framed by ornate scrollwork and large “1000” numerals in all corners and also the large "$1000" at center left and right is embedded in an engraved shield design, reinforcing the note’s high denomination and formal. Printed in rich green ink, the detailed line work reflects the exceptional craftsmanship of early U.S. currency.
This example is from the San Francisco district (12-L)—widely considered the ideal district for type collectors, with the highest known survival rate of this Friedberg number. According to Track & Price, 63 examples are currently enumerated. Graded PMG Very Fine 25, this note is problem-free, exhibiting strong color, balanced margins, and honest circulation wear with no netting or repairs—making it a standout specimen in this rare and desirable series.
Grade: PMG 25
Denomination: $1000
Type: FRN San Francisco
Year: 1918