Description
🔵 FR‑1972‑L • 1969C $5 Federal Reserve Note • Missing First Print • PCGS 66PPQ
A dramatic Missing First Print error on a 1969C $5 Federal Reserve Note from the San Francisco “L” District, carrying serial L48485292C. This is a textbook early‑series printing blunder — the bottom sheet never received its first print, almost certainly due to two sheets feeding together, leaving the face design absent beneath the overprint. Errors of this magnitude on 1960s small‑size notes are scarce, especially in high grade.
🔥 Error & Eye Appeal
- Missing First Print — the entire first printing layer never struck
- Likely caused by sheet‑feed adhesion, a classic BEP mechanical failure
- Overprint sits sharply on a blank first‑print layer, making the error instantly visible
- Bright white paper with deep embossing across the note
- Crisp, bold face print and a sharply aligned overprint that pops from across the room
This is the kind of error that stops collectors mid‑scroll.
💎 Grade & Quality
- PCGS 66PPQ Gem Uncirculated
- Premium Paper Quality designation
- Pack‑fresh originality
- Superb centering, sharp inks, and fully raised embossing
A top‑tier Gem that never saw circulation — exactly what advanced error collectors want.
📈 Rarity & Desirability
Missing First Print errors on early‑series $5 FRNs are far less common than missing second or third prints. Most surviving examples are circulated or impaired; Gem PPQ pieces are extremely tough. The combination of:
- High grade (66PPQ)
- Early series (1969C)
- San Francisco District
- Full missing‑print visibility
makes this a premium‑level error note with long‑term collector demand.
⭐ Why This Note Stands Out
- Major, unmistakable first‑print omission
- Early‑series error with exceptional originality
- Gem Uncirculated with PPQ — the highest tier of eye appeal
- Fresh from a pack, never offered, never mishandled
- A dramatic display piece for any error‑focused collection
This is the kind of error that anchors a category page and commands attention from serious buyers.
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