State of Alabama 25 Cents currency note (not authenticated)

This paper currency note appears to be a twenty-five cent fractional note issued by the State of Alabama, dated January 1st, 1863. The physical object is a rectangular paper note with black typographic and engraved elements, alongside prominent red underprint numbering reading '25 CENTS'. The central vignette depicts a horse-drawn wagon loaded with bales of cotton in a rural landscape. The upper left corner features an ornate seal containing an outline map of Alabama with the text 'MAP OF ALABAMA'. The upper right corner displays a circular ornamental frame enclosing the large number '25'. The lower right corner features an oval portrait of a woman. Text printed across the note includes 'THE STATE OF ALABAMA', 'WILL PAY TO BEARER IN / Confederate / States / Treasury / Notes / When presented at / the State Treasury / in sums of Twenty / Dollars & upwards', and 'TWENTY-FIVE CENTS' with 'Montgomery' and the date 'Jan. 1st 1863'. Additional printed text includes '2nd SERIES', a serial number 'No. 67774', the letter 'D', and the signature of Governor 'Jn. Gill Shorter' (likely a facsimile signature typical of the period). The paper shows overall toning, yellowing, edge wear, and minor staining consistent with age and historical circulation. The attribution rests entirely on the legible printed text and iconography visible across the face of the note, though the physical piece remains unauthenticated. There are handwritten notations visible on a taped label above the note, which appear to be unverified user or dealer notes specifying series and pricing details.

Based on the provided image, I have evaluated this fractional paper currency note bearing the text 'State of Alabama 25 CENTS' and dated January 1st, 1863. From what I can see in the photograph, the piece exhibits overall toning, edge wear, and minor staining consistent with historical circulation. It bears printed signatures, vignettes, and serial numbers typical of the period. I cannot evaluate paper quality, tactile printing characteristics, or potential alterations from a photo alone; therefore, this appraisal operates under the working assumption that the note is of the period and not a modern reproduction. If physically examined and determined to be a later copy or replica, the financial value would be negligible. Market demand for Southern states' Civil War-era fractional currency remains steady among specialized numismatists, though high-volume issues like this generally remain accessible. Assuming the current attribution holds, comparable notes in similar circulated condition typically sell in the $20 to $40 range. Physical inspection by a numismatic professional would be required to evaluate its status and accurately assign a formal numeric grade, which heavily influences the final market value of paper money.