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The 1969C $10 Federal Reserve Note graded Superb Gem New 67PPQ by PCGS is a pristine, high-grade example of a classic small-size U.S. note from the late 1960s and early 1970s. Issued during a transformative period in American monetary history, this note showcases the enduring portrait of Alexander Hamilton on the face, retains the traditional green and black color scheme of pre-modern U.S. currency, and reflects strong Cold War-era design aesthetics. The “C” series indicates a change in Treasury signatures rather than design, and the PCGS 67PPQ designation confirms a virtually flawless note with perfect paper quality, alignment, and inking—placing it in the upper echelon of collectible small-size notes.
The Series 1969C $10 Federal Reserve Notes were printed under the signatures of Treasury Secretary John B. Connally and Treasurer Dorothy Andrews Elston. The “C” designation refers to the third signature change in the 1969 series, which ran through multiple printings between 1969 and 1974. These notes were issued well before the addition of modern security features like color shifting ink or security threads, making them a relic of an era when trust in paper currency rested on government backing and quality of print alone. This series circulated widely for decades, which makes Superb Gem New examples like this one particularly scarce and desirable.
The obverse of the 1969C $10 note features the portrait of Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury, whose foundational role in American finance made him an appropriate figurehead for the denomination. Hamilton’s portrait faces left and is surrounded by an ornate oval frame with fine engraving lines, placed slightly off-center to the left. The words “FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE” and “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” appear prominently above and below, with the denomination printed in both numerical and textual formats. The green Treasury seal appears to the right of the portrait, and black Federal Reserve Bank identifiers are printed at left. In 67PPQ condition, the print registration is sharp, the paper is crisp and untouched, and the margins are well-balanced—features required for the highest-end grades.
The reverse of the note displays a detailed rendering of the U.S. Treasury building in Washington, D.C. This architectural engraving is finely executed, showing columns, windows, trees, and flagpoles in sharp relief. Above the vignette is the phrase “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and below it reads “TEN DOLLARS.” The denomination is repeated in the lower corners, with decorative scrollwork completing the design. A PCGS grade of 67PPQ (Premium Paper Quality) ensures that this note is not only in fully uncirculated condition but also exhibits original paper surfaces, embossing, and brightness untouched by any processing such as pressing or cleaning.
The PPQ designation is reserved for notes that meet the strictest standards for originality. It confirms that the note has not been altered, flattened, or handled, and that the paper retains its original texture and “snap.” The 67 numeric grade represents near-perfect preservation, typically only a tick away from the theoretical maximums of 68 and 69. For this note, that means razor-sharp corners, full margins, vibrant ink, and centered printing—free of even the most minor distractions like counting flicks, ink bleeds, or handling smudges.
Though tens of millions of $10 notes were printed during the Series 1969C run, the vast majority entered circulation and were worn, folded, or damaged over time. Finding examples in uncirculated condition is not uncommon, but finding a Superb Gem New 67PPQ note—especially one still retaining its full originality—is far rarer. Notes like this typically were pulled directly from BEP straps or bricks at the time of issue and preserved with exceptional care, often stored in protective holders to ensure long-term condition stability.
Collectors of small-size U.S. notes pursue the Series 1969 issues for their traditional design, historical context, and the variety of signature combinations. The 1969C series, with its Connally–Elston pairing, is especially attractive as it represents a moment in U.S. financial history shortly before the end of the Bretton Woods system and the removal of the U.S. dollar from the gold standard in 1971. This was also a period of increasing inflation and currency change, making the notes a physical link to an era of economic transition and monetary reevaluation.
The $10 denomination holds a special place in modern currency collecting due to its historical use and the prominence of Alexander Hamilton. Unlike higher denominations, $10 notes saw frequent, heavy use, meaning fewer examples were preserved in high-grade condition. As such, 67PPQ notes stand well above the average and are highly desirable for collectors building sets by series, denomination, or grade tier. Additionally, examples from less common Federal Reserve districts or with low or fancy serial numbers would further enhance interest and value.
From a market perspective, small-size notes in certified Superb Gem grades are seeing growing attention, especially as demand increases for well-preserved U.S. currency of the late 20th century. While the 1969C $10 note is not considered rare in circulated condition, examples like this—graded 67PPQ—are a different category altogether. Their value is driven not by age or scarcity of the type, but by impeccable preservation, perfect paper surfaces, and third-party certification that ensures collector confidence.
The Certified 1969C $10 Federal Reserve Note graded Superb Gem New 67PPQ by PCGS is a standout example of classic U.S. paper money at its finest. Its deep historical roots, iconic design, and outstanding preservation make it an excellent addition to any collection of Federal Reserve Notes, high-grade small-size currency, or mid-century American monetary history. Its pristine state and certified originality ensure that it will remain a treasured and stable asset for years to come.