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The 1963A $100 Federal Reserve Note graded Gem New 66PPQ by PCGS is a pristine and highly desirable example of mid-20th century American paper currency. As part of the final generation of U.S. notes before the introduction of modern anti-counterfeiting features, this note exemplifies the classic design, robust printing techniques, and institutional authority that defined Federal Reserve Notes for decades. The 66PPQ grade reflects near-perfect centering, vibrant ink, and flawless surfaces, while the Premium Paper Quality designation confirms complete originality, making this note an elite-level specimen for collectors and investors alike.
The Series 1963A $100 notes were printed during the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson and feature the signature combination of Kathryn O’Hay Granahan as Treasurer of the United States and C. Douglas Dillon as Secretary of the Treasury. These signatures place the note in a time of American economic expansion and global monetary leadership. By this point, gold convertibility had already ended for domestic currency, and the Federal Reserve Note served solely as fiat money. The legal tender clause—“This note is legal tender for all debts, public and private”—appears prominently on the face, affirming the note’s full backing by the U.S. government despite the absence of a gold or silver redemption promise.
The obverse of the note showcases an intricately engraved portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s most revered Founding Fathers, innovators, and diplomats. Franklin is depicted facing right, surrounded by an ornate oval and flanked by symmetrical scrollwork and balanced border elements. The black seal of the issuing Federal Reserve Bank appears to the left of the portrait, while the green U.S. Treasury seal is placed to the right. Serial numbers in green ink are located at the upper right and lower left. In the 66PPQ grade, these features exhibit precision alignment, razor-sharp detail, and deep, even ink application, contributing to the note’s exceptional visual presentation.
The reverse of the note features a detailed engraving of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—a historic site tied to the adoption of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The rendering includes fine architectural details, surrounding foliage, and classical layout symmetry. “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is boldly displayed above, and “ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS” spans the lower edge. The denomination also appears in large numerals at each corner. In this condition, the engraving remains deeply impressed, and the green color is uniform and rich, without signs of toning, fading, or ink disruption.
PCGS Currency’s Gem New 66 grade places the note in the upper echelon of uncirculated paper money. To achieve this grade, a note must have above-average centering, excellent print quality, and no folds, creases, or defects visible under 5x magnification. The PPQ (Premium Paper Quality) designation certifies that the paper is completely original, with no signs of cleaning, pressing, or chemical tampering. This includes full embossing from the intaglio printing process, natural paper wave, and unaltered fiber texture—important features for collectors who prize authenticity as highly as preservation.
While 1963A $100 notes were printed in substantial numbers to meet economic demand, very few were saved in uncirculated condition, and even fewer have been certified in the Gem New 66PPQ tier. At the time, a $100 bill represented a significant sum of money, and notes were used heavily in business, financial, and institutional settings. Their utilitarian role in commerce made them less likely to be preserved in pristine condition. The survival of such a note with untouched paper and flawless centering is rare, and certified examples are increasingly difficult to obtain in today’s market.
The historical context of the 1963A $100 is significant. It circulated during the postwar American boom, a time of innovation, infrastructure growth, and global leadership. The Federal Reserve played a central role in monetary policy, and this note was part of the foundation of trust in the dollar before the Nixon Shock of 1971 ended international gold convertibility. As such, the note reflects a pre-modern era of American currency, characterized by elegance, simplicity, and durable design.
The artistry of the note is another key reason for its continued appeal. The Franklin portrait is engraved with fine detail and expression, conveying authority and calm intellect. The Independence Hall reverse reinforces national identity and the link between American values and its monetary system. Unlike later notes, which emphasized complex security features, this note relies on traditional engraving, symmetry, and bold design to communicate trustworthiness and prestige.
Collectors who pursue high-grade small-size Federal Reserve Notes often view the 66PPQ tier as a benchmark for excellence. While Gem 65PPQ notes are certainly attractive, the extra precision in centering and print clarity found in a 66PPQ example offers enhanced aesthetic and long-term investment value. These notes are prime candidates for type sets, denomination runs, or condition-focused portfolios emphasizing originality and visual perfection.
The Certified 1963A $100 Federal Reserve Note graded Gem New 66PPQ by PCGS stands at the intersection of historical significance, premium preservation, and engraving excellence. With untouched paper quality, balanced margins, and razor-sharp detail, it is a quintessential example of classic U.S. currency in its highest form. Whether acquired for a comprehensive Federal Reserve collection or as a top-tier type specimen, this note delivers timeless appeal, long-term value, and exceptional collector pride.