National Currency banknotes were issued from 1863 through 1935 by the federal government and distributed through chartered local banks. The banknote ffeatured beautiful, intricate designs with thename of the chartered bank prominently printed on the face. The first series of National Currency banknotes had a central theme based on famous paintings of important events in American history. The highest denomination in the series was the $100 note which featured John Trumbull's famous painting "The Signing of the Declaration of Independence".

Today, these magnificent works of monetary art are highly valued among collectors for their extraordinary beauty and historical significance. Unfortunately, few of the delicate paper banknotes have survived. Today, these works of monetary art are incredibly difficult to find and - depending on condition and the chartered bank - sell for more then $150,000!