Colonial and Continental Currency (Part 1)

The Birth of U.S. Paper Money: Continental Congress Currency

Before the establishment of the United States Mint and the familiar banknotes we know today, America’s earliest paper money came in the form of Colonial and Continental Currency. These historic notes were issued during the Revolutionary War and represent the foundation of U.S. paper money history.

The Birth of Continental Currency

In 1775, as the colonies declared independence and prepared for war, the Continental Congress faced an urgent need to finance the revolution. With little access to gold or silver reserves, they turned to paper money. Continental Currency was authorized in denominations ranging from a few cents to $80, and carried slogans such as “Mind Your Business” and “We Are One” — patriotic reminders of the colonies’ unity and cause.

Design and Symbolism

The designs of Continental notes were simple yet powerful. Engraved by Benjamin Franklin and other notable figures, they featured nature-inspired motifs like leaves, chains, and sunbursts. These designs not only carried symbolic meaning but also served as an early attempt at counterfeit protection, since the printing plates captured unique leaf patterns that were difficult to replicate.

Challenges and Decline

Despite their historical significance, Continental notes faced serious problems. Overprinting and a lack of public confidence led to rapid inflation. By the end of the war, the phrase “not worth a Continental” had become common slang, reflecting the currency’s collapse in value. Few examples survived, making authentic Continental Currency highly collectible today.

Why Collectors Value Continental Currency

Collectors are drawn to Continental notes because they are more than just obsolete money — they are artifacts of America’s struggle for independence. Owning one is like holding a piece of the Revolutionary era itself. Rarity, historical context, and condition determine their value, with higher-grade pieces commanding strong prices at auctions.

Parthava Coin and U.S. Paper Money

At ParthavaCoin.com, we focus on offering graded U.S. banknotes from later periods, including large-size notes, fractional currency, and modern Federal Reserve issues. While we do not currently offer Colonial or Continental notes in our inventory, we celebrate their importance as the starting point of America’s paper money story. Collectors who appreciate these early issues often go on to explore other categories of U.S. banknotes, many of which can be found in our store.

✨ This story will continue, stay with us at Parthava Coin as we explore each part of America’s paper money history, from early Colonial issues to the Federal Reserve notes of today.