1902 $5 The Russell National Bank of Lewistown, PA

Scarce Mifflin County National Bank Note

Offered here is a desirable 1902 Series $5 Plain Back National Bank Note issued by The Russell National Bank of Lewistown, Pennsylvania, Charter #10506. This note bears serial number 33734 and represents an increasingly difficult Pennsylvania national bank issue that seldom appears on the market.

The note grades an easy Very Fine plus and displays strong overall eye appeal. Honest circulation is present, yet there are no significant distractions to detract from the note’s appearance. The paper remains attractive, and the note retains desirable originality throughout. Particularly appealing are the attractive handwritten bank officer signatures that remain bold and clear.

Rare Lewistown, Pennsylvania Issuer

According to reported census figures, only 26 large-size notes are known from this charter, along with just 61 small-size notes. Such limited survivor numbers make notes from The Russell National Bank highly desirable among Pennsylvania collectors, national bank specialists, and hometown note enthusiasts.

The combination of scarcity and collector demand continues to support strong interest whenever examples from this bank become available.

Historic Mifflin County Banking Connection

Lewistown serves as the county seat of Mifflin County and has long held an important place in Pennsylvania history. During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Lewistown became a major transportation and commercial center due to the Pennsylvania Canal system and expanding railroad network.

As businesses flourished, local banks played a critical role in supporting regional commerce. National bank notes such as this example circulated throughout the community and remain tangible connections to Lewistown’s economic development and banking heritage.

Outstanding Pennsylvania National Bank Note

Collectors seeking scarce Pennsylvania nationals will appreciate the strong attributes offered by this note. Between the attractive Very Fine grade, bold signatures, limited census population, and desirable small-town Pennsylvania origin, this piece represents an outstanding opportunity to acquire a rarely encountered national bank note.

Whether added to a collection of Pennsylvania currency, national bank notes, or historical Americana, this Russell National Bank example is certain to command attention.