1929 $20 National Currency Alpine, Texas PMG CH Fine 15

Key Features:

1. Type:
   • National Bank Note: Issued by the First National Bank of Alpine, Texas, this note was part of the small-size series introduced in 1929.
   • The notes were backed by U.S. Treasury bonds deposited by the issuing bank.
2. Charter Information:
   • Charter Number: Each bank had a unique charter number, which appears on the note. For Alpine, Texas, this would identify the issuing bank.
   • The First National Bank of Alpine was likely the only national bank in this small West Texas town, adding to the note’s rarity.
3. Design:
   • Obverse (Front):
     • Features a portrait of Andrew Jackson, similar to other $20 notes of the era.
     • Displays the issuing bank’s name (“First National Bank of Alpine”), charter number, and serial number.
   • Reverse (Back):
     • Identical to standard $20 Federal Reserve Notes, with the design featuring the White House.
4. Denomination:
   • $20, a higher denomination for local use in smaller communities like Alpine, Texas.

Historical Context:

1. National Bank Notes in 1929:
   • The Series of 1929 marked the transition to small-size national banknotes (previously, these notes were issued in large-size formats).
   • These notes were issued between 1929 and the mid-1930s, with many surviving examples ceasing circulation during the Great Depression.
   • The issuance period coincided with significant financial struggles for smaller banks, many of which closed during the banking crises.
2. Alpine, Texas:
   • Alpine, located in remote West Texas, was a small but vital community during the early 20th century. Notes from small towns are often rare because these banks issued limited quantities.

Conclusion:

The 1929 $20 National Currency note from Alpine, Texas, graded PMG CH F15, is a highly collectible piece of banking and regional history. Its value lies in its rarity, condition, and connection to a small West Texas community.