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Symbols of Unity on Continental Currency
During the American Revolution, the emblems used on paper money often symbolized unity.
Continental Currency, the Continental Congress, and the Continental Army were unifying factors that helped the transition of 13 states into one nation. Paper money, however, was not as well appreciated, thanks in part to British efforts at underminining public confidence in it (including counterfeiting). "Not worth a Continental" became a saying.
The the back of the legendary Fugio* coins and currency (above) designed by Benjamin Franklin had a circle of 13 interlocking rings surrounding the motto, "WE ARE ONE."
The emblem on the Continental Currency $8 note (1776) was a harp with 13 strings. The accompanying motto meant: "The larger are in harmony with the smaller."
On the Continental Currency $40 note (1778) was an eye surrounded by 13 stars and the motto "CONFEDERATION."
This emblem was designed by Francis Hopkinson, the designer of the American Flag in 1777 and the consultant on the second Great Seal committee (1780) who suggested a shield with 13 (diagonal) stripes and a constellation of 13 stars.
Along with the above $40 bill, Hopkinson also designed the Continental Currency $50 bill (below) that inspired William Barton of the third committee to suggest the pyramid for the reverse side of the Great Seal.
Individual States also issued money rich in symbolism.
The New York $5 note (1776) had a candelabrum of 13 candles. Its motto meant "One fire, and to the same purpose." On South Carolina's £5 note (1775) is a bundle of twelve arrows tied together by a ribbon. The accompanying motto meant "An auspice of well-being." (South Carolina's £100 (1776) had 13 heats. The motto meant: "Who will separate.")
- North Carolina's currency had some interesting symbols of unity:
- $10 bill (1775) with 12 arms supporting a Liberty Cap. The motto meant: "This we guard, for this we strive."
- $2 1/2 note (1776) with a hand clasping 13 arrows. The motto meant: "The power of unity."
What's with the number thirteen?
*On the front of Franklin's Fugio coins and currency, is a sun and sundial. The symbolism means: Time flies, so Mind Your Business.
Colonial currency also had symbols of peace.
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Reference Sources:
Early Paper Money of America: An Illustrated, Historical, and Descriptive Compilation...
In his fascinating book, Eric P. Newman tells how the Declaration of Independence makes specific accusations against the King of England for his unnatural restrictions on paper money, a major cause of the American Revolution.
Colonial Currency. A project of the Robert H. Gore, Jr. Numismatic Endowment University of Notre Dame, this excellent website has wonderful examples of America's revolutionary paper money.
