1899 $5 Silver Certificate Chief Note E555555 PMG 35

Exceptional 1899 Chief Note with Solid Serial Number

Offered here is a remarkable Fr. 274 1899 $5 Silver Certificate, widely known among collectors as the legendary Chief Note. This historic large-size silver certificate features the highly desirable serial number E555555, creating an extraordinary solid-five serial number combination on a five-dollar note.

Graded PMG 35 Very Fine to Extra Fine, this note remains housed in its original PMG holder from the late 2000s. It displays pleasing originality, strong eye appeal, and bright paper quality. Pulled from circulation long ago and carefully preserved, the note presents attractive centering and a clean overall appearance.

Rare Solid Five Serial Number

Solid serial numbers are among the most sought-after specialties in paper money collecting. This example features six consecutive fives, making it a true conversation piece and a premium collectible. The combination of a $5 Silver Certificate, the famous Chief Note design, and a solid five serial number creates a unique opportunity rarely encountered in the marketplace.

Collectors are drawn to this note not only for its rarity but also for its impressive visual impact. Few serial numbers complement a denomination as perfectly as solid fives on a five-dollar note.

Comparable Auction History

The closest known comparable example is the Fr. 275 $5 Chief Note serial number E55555555E, graded PMG 65 EPQ, which realized $95,000 in 2018. *Per Michael Abramson’s Fancy Serial Number Price Guidebook. Prior to that, the same note sold for $40,850 in 2004 through Lyn Knight Auctions. While differing in grade and format, those results illustrate the strong collector demand for premium Chief Notes featuring extraordinary all-five serial numbers.

Collector Information

This note bears the signatures of Vernon and McClung and represents one of the most iconic designs in United States paper money. A desirable addition for advanced currency collectors, solid serial number specialists, and enthusiasts of classic large-size Silver Certificates.

Signatures: Vernon-McClung
Catalog Number: Fr. 274
Grade: PMG 35 Very Fine to Extra Fine
Serial Number: E555555
Denomination: $5 Silver Certificate
Series: 1899 Chief Note