1928 Series $5 United States Note (Red Seal)

This item is a 1928 Series United States Five Dollar Note, commonly known as a 'Red Seal' note due to the prominent red Treasury seal and serial numbers. The obverse features a central portrait of Abraham Lincoln, framed by an oval border. Above the portrait, 'THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' is printed. To the left of Lincoln is a circular red Treasury seal with serrated edges, inscribed with 'THIS CERTIFICATE IS LEGAL TENDER FOR ALL DEBTS PUBLIC AND PRIVATE, AND IS RECEIVABLE BY ALL NATIONAL AND OTHER NATIONAL BANKS' and 'DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY'. The serial number, 'G07354672 A', is printed in red twice: once to the left of Lincoln and once to the right, adjacent to the large 'FIVE' denomination spelling. The denomination '5' is located in the top right and bottom left corners. Below Lincoln's portrait, 'WASHINGTON, D.C.' is visible, along with the signatures of the Treasurer of the United States and the Secretary of the Treasury. The phrase 'WILL PAY TO THE BEARER ON DEMAND FIVE DOLLARS' is centrally located at the bottom. The note exhibits signs of handling and age, including multiple vertical and horizontal folds, particularly through Lincoln's portrait and the seals. The paper shows a general softening and faint discoloration consistent with circulation. There are no apparent tears or major repairs visible, though the edges appear somewhat worn. The overall condition suggests a Fine to Very Fine grade for a circulating note of this era. The red ink remains vibrant, which is a key characteristic for these notes. The style is typical of early small-sized United States currency.

I have examined the provided details and description of this 1928 Series United States Five Dollar Note, commonly known as a 'Red Seal' note. Based on the reported condition, which includes multiple vertical and horizontal folds, general paper softening, and faint discoloration consistent with circulation, I would assess this note to be in Fine to Very Fine (F-VF) condition. The description states the red ink remains vibrant, which is a positive factor for these notes as fading can reduce appeal. No tears or major repairs are noted, which is also favorable. Authenticity, based on the visual and textual description, appears consistent with genuine 1928 Series $5 US Notes. The serial format and seal placement align with known examples. However, a definitive authentication would require an in-person examination to verify paper type, printing methods, watermarks (if any for this series), and to detect any subtle alterations or counterfeiting attempts not visible in images or described. Provenance documentation, while helpful, is not critical for common notes of this type unless significant historical association is claimed. Market conditions for 1928 $5 Red Seal notes in F-VF condition are consistent. There is a steady demand from collectors looking to acquire circulated examples of these iconic notes. While not rare, notes in this condition are desirable, particularly with vibrant red ink and no major damage. Factors impacting value positively include the strong color of the red seal and serial numbers, and the absence of tears or significant stains. Conversely, the numerous folds and general circulation wear limit the higher end of the value range. Considering these points, I estimate the appraisal value for this specific 1928 $5 Red Seal note to be in the range of $65 to $120.