New York, New York – 1882 $5 National Bank Note “Brown Back” | The United National Bank | Charter #5990 | Fr. 477 | PMG Very Fine 20

This exceptional 1882 $5 National Bank Note, known as the “Brown Back”, was issued by The United National Bank of New York City under Charter #5990. Cataloged as Friedberg 477 and professionally certified PMG Very Fine 20, this note represents one of the most desirable combinations in U.S. National Currency collecting: a New York City issuer, an early series design, and a visually iconic large-format layout.

Brown Back National Bank Notes are widely regarded as some of the most attractive and historically significant issues of the National Currency era, and New York City examples command especially strong demand due to their financial and historical importance.

Key Specifications

• Denomination: $5

• Series: 1882

• Type: National Bank Note — Brown Back

• Friedberg Number: Fr. 477

• Issuing Bank: The United National Bank

• City: New York, New York

• Charter Number: 5990

• Grading Service: PMG

• Grade: Very Fine 20

• Size: Large Size U.S. Currency

• Rarity Level: Scarce, especially from New York City

The United National Bank of New York

New York City was the financial heart of the United States in the late 19th century, and the United National Bank was part of that powerful banking network. Notes issued by New York City banks are among the most collected and valuable National Bank Notes because:

• New York was America’s dominant banking center

• Its banks were tied to stock markets, trade, and industrial expansion

• Collectors worldwide pursue NYC-issued National Currency

Charter #5990 is particularly appealing because it comes from a true Wall Street-era institution, giving this note unmatched historical relevance.

What Makes the 1882 “Brown Back” Special

The 1882 National Bank Note series is considered by many collectors to be the most visually impressive of all National Currency issues. The nickname “Brown Back” comes from the large brown Treasury seal and brown serial numbers on the reverse.

These notes are highly prized for:

• Bold, detailed engraving

• Oversized “5” numerals

• Strong patriotic symbolism

• Large-format design is rarely seen on modern currency

They are widely collected as centerpiece notes in U.S. paper money collections.

The $5 Denomination – The Collector’s Favorite

Among National Bank Notes, the $5 denomination is the most actively collected. It represents:

• The most widely circulated everyday denomination of the era

• The most popular size for display and long-term ownership

• The best balance between affordability and historical importance

When combined with a New York City bank, the desirability multiplies.

PMG Very Fine 20 – Honest, Attractive Circulation

A grade of PMG VF 20 indicates:

• Strong paper integrity

• Fully legible signatures, charter, and bank title

• Clear serial numbers

• Balanced wear consistent with historical use

• No structural problems

This grade offers excellent eye appeal while preserving authentic circulation history—exactly what many advanced collectors prefer.

Why This Note Is a Strong Investment

1. New York City Issuer

NYC National Bank Notes consistently outperform other locations due to unmatched collector demand.

2. 1882 Brown Back Series

This is the most iconic National Currency design and remains one of the strongest-performing segments in the market.

3. PMG Certification

PMG grading guarantees authenticity and makes the note easier to trade, insure, and resell.

4. Limited Supply

National Bank Notes are no longer issued. Each year, more disappear into long-term collections, reducing market availability.

A Financial Artifact from America’s Golden Age

This 1882 $5 Brown Back from The United National Bank of New York is not just currency—it is a direct link to America’s industrial and financial expansion. It circulated during the era of railroads, steel, banking consolidation, and Wall Street’s rise to global dominance.

Collectors of National Bank Notes seek out pieces like this because they offer:

• Regional identity

• Banking history

• Aesthetic beauty

• Long-term value stability

Conclusion

The 1882 $5 National Bank Note – The United National Bank of New York (Charter #5990, Fr. 477, PMG VF 20) is a premium example of classic American currency. With its NYC origin, iconic Brown Back design, and respected PMG certification, this note is an elite collectible and a blue-chip investment within the National Currency market.

This is the type of note that anchors a serious U.S. paper money collection and continues to grow in desirability year after year.