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- Product ID: 19794
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The 1969B $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note CU holds a special place in the annals of American numismatics, not just for its rarity but also for the era it represents—a period marked by significant social, political, and economic changes in the United States. This note is particularly notable for being part of the STAR note series, which are replacement notes issued to maintain the integrity of a currency series when original prints are misprinted or damaged during the production process.
The 1969B series STAR notes, distinguished by their replacement status, were printed under the authority of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the sole producer of United States currency. STAR notes are printed in lesser quantities compared to standard issues, making them a rarity and highly sought after by collectors. These notes replace faulty ones that were detected during the quality control checks before being released into circulation.
The design of the 1969B $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note adheres to the standard design elements established for the $1 bill. The obverse features the iconic portrait of President George Washington, painted originally by Gilbert Stuart, which has graced the one-dollar bill since 1963. This design was part of a larger effort to standardize the look of U.S. currency and provide a symbol of stability and trust in the American government. The obverse also includes Federal Reserve indicators, a serial number with a star at the end indicating its status as a replacement note, and the signature of the Treasurer and Secretary of the Treasury at the time.
On the reverse, the note displays the Great Seal of the United Stated, featuring the bald eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing America's preference for peace but readiness for defense. The intricate design surrounding the seal includes ornamental scrolls and the denomination spelled out in each of the four corners, ensuring the note's authenticity and deterring counterfeiters.
The condition of this particular 1969B $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note marked as CU, or Crisp Uncirculated, signifies that it has never been used in public circulation. This level of preservation means the note retains its original freshness, sharp colors, and detailed embossing. There are no signs of wear, folds, creases, or tears, and the paper itself remains stiff and clean with original sheen, attributes that are critically important for collectors.
As for the mint and mintage of the 1969B series, these STAR notes were produced in limited numbers, but exact figures are typically not disclosed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. The notes were likely printed across several of the Federal Reserve's printing facilities, which include those in Washington D.C. and Fort Worth, Texas. The limited print runs of STAR notes, combined with their role as replacements for damaged currency, add a layer of rarity and desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
The 1969B $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note CU is more than just a piece of currency; it's a historical artifact that captures a specific moment in U.S. history. It reflects the technological and administrative capabilities of the U.S. Treasury at the end of the 1960s—a time of innovation in currency production and handling. For collectors, this note is not only a valuable item due to its rarity and condition but also a connection to a pivotal period in the history of American currency, making it a cherished item in any numismatic collection.