Description

1902 $10 PB– Portland NB of Pennsylvania, PA

FR‑624 • Charter #6665 • Serial 10507 • PCGS 25 Very Fine+

The 1902 $10 Portland National Bank PA FR‑624 is a scarce large‑size National Bank Note issued under Charter #6665 and carrying serial #10507. Graded PCGS 25 Very Fine+, this bright, problem‑free example is one of just nine large‑size notes known from this rare Northampton County issuer.

This note is rare by any measure:

• Only 9 large‑size notes are known from this Northampton County bank.
• Just 10 small‑size survivors are recorded.
• Portland had two National Banks during the era — both issued notes, but neither left behind many survivors. This is a tough Pennsylvania national that simply does not surface often.

Historical Significance

Portland is a small borough in Northampton County, positioned along the Delaware River in Pennsylvania’s historic Slate Belt. With a population of just 519 in 2010 and 494 in 2020, it has always been a small community — which directly contributes to the rarity of its National Bank Notes.

Early Industry & Growth

Portland was originally settled around the logging trade, which fueled the town’s earliest businesses. Several taverns and hotels thrived during this era, including:

• Hibblertown Hotel (now the Ackerson house)
• Dill’s Tavern (the oldest tavern, now gone)
• What Cheer Inn (present‑day Duckloe Showroom)

The arrival of the railroad transformed Portland’s economy, shifting transportation from river to rail and attracting new residents. By the time the borough was incorporated, Portland supported a surprisingly active business district with general stores, hardware shops, confectioneries, millinery shops, and even a jewelry store.

Local Newspaper

Portland was home to The Portland Enterprise, a weekly newspaper founded in 1847. It served both sides of the river and remained in publication into the early 20th century.

Why This Note Matters

• Extremely low population: Only 9 large‑size known.
• Early 20th‑century Portland history tied directly to logging, railroads, and small‑town commerce.
• Bright, problem‑free VF+ example with strong originality.
• A true scarcity from a borough that never produced many notes to begin with.

A premium opportunity for collectors of Pennsylvania nationals, Northampton County, or low‑population large‑size survivors.

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