Description from HiBid
Green Seal Serial A34913346A. Description: This Series 1934 $20 Federal Reserve Note is a standout piece of Depression-era currency. It features the classic green Treasury seal and the signatures of Julian and Morgenthau.
Why It’s Special:
This is a "Plain" 1934 series note (no letter suffix after the year), which is the first year of this design. Unlike modern bills, these older 1934 notes often feature a "Lime Green" or "Light Green" seal and serial numbers, which are highly prized by collectors compared to the darker forest green used in later years. Additionally, it lacks the "In God We Trust" motto, which was not added to U.S. paper currency until the mid-1950s.
The "Lawful Money" Clause: Unlike modern bills which simply state they are "legal tender," these older notes promised redemption in "lawful money." In 1934, this was a significant distinction because the U.S. had just moved off the Gold Standard (via the Gold Reserve Act of 1934).
The Transition from Gold: Before 1934, Federal Reserve Notes promised redemption specifically in gold. This revised 1934 text was the government's way of pivoting the language to "lawful money" (meaning other silver coins or currency) since they could no longer legally promise gold to the public.
Design Rarity: Later series (like the 1950 series and beyond) shortened this text significantly. Seeing this longer, more formal "redemption" paragraph is a quick way for collectors to identify a "pre-modern" era note.
District: Issued from the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (denoted by the "A" in the serial number and the "1-A" district seals).
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