February 7th, 1781-Dated Revolutionary War, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Copper-Plate Engraved Treasury Loan “Bearer” Certificate Signed, “H(enry) Gardner” as Treasurer, Anderson MA-24, Indented “Pine Tree” vignette in the left border design, Printed in Red and Black, Choice Extremely Fine.
This choice quality engraved Treasury Certificate is Signed, H(enry) Gardner who was appointed as the First Treasurer and Receiver General of the state of Massachusetts in 1780 who served in that role until his death in 1782. This rare Certificate was payable for Six Hundred Dollars to the Bearer at three months after date. The Act of March 18, 1780 is referenced, payment was guaranteed state currency. The certificate has an ornate outer border design and an elaborate indented left panel with half the hallmark state Pine Tree vignette displayed printed in bright red, matching the text “Witness my Hand” also in bright red above the signature which is pen canceled. It is exceptionally well centered within fully-wide margins on clean laid period paper with some minor internal fold splits, the centerfold with archival tape reinforcement. Stated... “to be paid in the Money emitted pursuant to a Resolve of Congress the 18th of March last, Interest at a rate of five Percent per Annum.” Notation on the blank reverse states that it was paid in Specie in full. *Of numismatic note: This is the first Massachusetts loan offered in “Dollars” and has a definitively worded connection to the newly issued May 5th 1780 Massachusetts “Guaranteed” by the United States replacement paper money issue bearing a 5% Annual Interest. These notes were issued replacing $40 in old paper money for every $1 of this new State issue. This rarity would be a great looking addition to any early American Revolutionary War currency or Massachusetts fiscal collection.