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The 1999 $5 Federal Reserve Note in Crisp Uncirculated (CU) condition represents one of the final issues of the classic small-size note design before the significant redesigns of the early 2000s. This series serves as a transitional piece within U.S. currency history, carrying forward the traditional design elements that had defined the denomination since 1928, while also incorporating subtle updates in printing and plate layout. As such, the 1999 series is valued by collectors for its historical position, aesthetic continuity, and pristine state when preserved in CU condition. Its issuance occurred just prior to the redesign wave that introduced color, watermarks, and other advanced security features to U.S. currency.
The obverse of the 1999 $5 Federal Reserve Note features the enduring portrait of Abraham Lincoln, engraved in fine detail and set slightly off-center toward the right. Above Lincoln’s image appears the phrase “FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE,” and just above his head is “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” Below the portrait is the denomination written out as “FIVE DOLLARS.” On the left and right edges of the note are the printed serial numbers, rendered in green ink, and flanked by the black Federal Reserve District seal on the left and the green U.S. Treasury seal on the right. Each serial number begins with a letter corresponding to one of the twelve Federal Reserve Banks, followed by numerals and an alphabetical suffix or a star, if the note is a replacement.
On the lower half of the obverse, the note features the printed signatures of the Treasurer of the United States and the Secretary of the Treasury. For the 1999 series, these signatures are generally those of Treasurer Mary Ellen Withrow and Treasury Secretary Lawrence H. Summers, who served under President Bill Clinton. These signatures help to date the note within the context of U.S. political history and identify it specifically as part of the 1999 series rather than earlier versions like 1995 or later redesigns starting in 2001.
The black seal to the left of Lincoln identifies the Federal Reserve District that issued the note. These districts range from A (Boston) to L (San Francisco) and are accompanied by the appropriate corresponding number and district name. The green Treasury seal to the right includes a balance scale, a chevron with thirteen stars, and a key, symbolizing justice, strength, and trust. Together, these two seals visually affirm the legitimacy of the note and its place within the national financial system. The layout maintains the symmetry and clean structure typical of earlier small-size notes.
The reverse of the 1999 $5 Federal Reserve Note displays the Lincoln Memorial, depicted with classical architectural precision. The structure, including its steps, columns, and friezes, is centered on the back of the note and is surrounded by inscriptions. “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” arches across the top, and “FIVE DOLLARS” is prominently featured along the bottom. Large numeral 5s occupy each corner, while smaller worded “FIVE” appears to the left and right of the main image. This reverse design had been in use for decades and continued unchanged into the 1999 issue, shortly before the redesign of 2006 introduced a more modern, asymmetrical reverse layout.
The paper composition is a blend of 75% cotton and 25% linen, embedded with red and blue security fibers, which remain visible under close inspection. Unlike the redesigned $5 bills that followed in the 2000s, the 1999 notes do not feature watermarks, security threads, or color-shifting ink. The absence of these modern security features makes CU examples of the 1999 series more desirable, as they represent the final stage of a simpler currency design era. Intaglio printing, used to create raised elements on the note, provides texture and depth, particularly around Lincoln’s portrait and the seals.
The 1999 $5 Federal Reserve Note was printed at both the Washington, D.C., and Fort Worth, Texas, facilities of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Notes printed at Fort Worth are distinguishable by a small “FW” preceding the face plate number in the lower right corner of the obverse. Collectors often distinguish between the two facilities and may seek to collect examples from both. Additionally, each note carries a back plate number at the lower right corner of the reverse, aiding in identification and tracking among currency specialists.
In Crisp Uncirculated (CU) condition, the 1999 $5 note retains full original quality. The paper is clean and bright, free from folds, creases, or staining. Corners remain sharp and square, and the printing is crisp, with no ink bleed or wear. Embossing from the raised intaglio print may still be felt and seen, especially in the serial numbers and portrait lines. CU examples are especially prized when they feature appealing serial numbers—such as low numbers, radar (palindromic), or repeaters—or when they are replacement STAR notes, which are much rarer.
While the 1999 series was printed in large quantities, not all examples have survived in Uncirculated condition. Most were quickly absorbed into everyday use, suffering wear and eventual destruction through the Federal Reserve’s note removal process. As a result, preserved CU examples are particularly important for collectors building series sets or type sets of late 20th-century American currency. Notes from less common Federal Reserve Districts or with specific printing characteristics may also command higher premiums, particularly if certified by grading agencies such as PCGS Banknote or PMG.
Though visually similar to earlier series like the 1995 and 1988A, the 1999 $5 note is significant as the final series before the comprehensive redesigns that changed the visual identity of U.S. currency in the 21st century. Its classic layout, traditional typography, and lack of modern security devices mark the end of a long-standing design standard that dated back to the 1920s. This makes the 1999 note a key transitional piece, ideal for collectors who value the evolution of U.S. note printing and want a high-quality representative of the last “traditional” $5 bill.
In conclusion, the 1999 $5 Federal Reserve Note in Crisp Uncirculated condition is a historically meaningful and visually appealing collectible. Its design continuity, combined with its status as the final issue before major redesigns, enhances its desirability. With its crisp paper, vibrant ink, and flawless presentation, the note serves as a pristine example of late 20th-century American currency and remains an essential piece for any collector interested in U.S. banknotes, especially those documenting the end of the classic era of U.S. note design.