1914 100 Dollar FRN Kansas City | Fr. 1120 | PMG 25

1914 $100 Federal Reserve Note Fr-1120 PMG-25

This 1914 $100 Federal Reserve Note (Fr. 1120) is a scarce large-size banknote issued by the Kansas City district. Featuring a striking portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and a detailed vignette of Labor, Plenty & America Seizing Opportunity on the reverse, this note is a prime example of early U.S. paper money design.

Graded PMG Very Fine 25 (VF 25), this note retains strong color, crisp details, and good paper quality, making it a solid addition to any numismatic collection.

Key Features of This 1914 100 Dollar FRN Kansas City (Fr. 1120 – Kansas City District)

1. First Large-Size Federal Reserve Notes

• The 1914 Series was the first issued after the creation of the Federal Reserve System, marking a significant transition in U.S. banking history.
• Large-size notes like this were printed between 1914 and 1928 before being replaced by the smaller-sized notes we use today.

2. Distinctive Design & Artwork

• The obverse (front) features a bold portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of the most influential figures in American history.
• The reverse (back) showcases an intricate allegorical scene, titled Labor, Plenty, and America, symbolizing the prosperity and industrial strength of the nation.

3. Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank Issue

• Identified by the “J” seal, this note was issued by the 1914 100 Dollar FRN Kansas City —one of the 12 regional Federal Reserve Banks.
• This variety is cataloged as Friedberg 1120 (Fr. 1120), distinguishing it from other 1914 $100 FRN issues.
• Treasury signatures of John Burke (Treasurer of the U.S.) and William G. McAdoo (Secretary of the Treasury) authenticate this note.

4. PMG VF 25 – Strong Eye Appeal

• Graded by PMG (Paper Money Guaranty), a trusted third-party grading service.
• The Very Fine (VF) 25 grade means this note has visible circulation but retains sharp details, bold ink, and a strong overall appearance.
• The well-centered design, bright paper, and rich color make this a strong VF example, uncommon for a century-old large-size note.

5. Rarity & Collector Demand

• Large-size $100 Federal Reserve Notes from 1914 are increasingly rare, especially from specific districts like Kansas City.
• High-denomination notes from this era had lower printing figures and lower survival rates, making them highly collectible.

Historical Significance of the 1914 100 Dollar FRN Kansas City

The issuance of Federal Reserve Notes in 1914 was a landmark moment in U.S. financial history. Prior to this, a complex mix of National Bank Notes, Silver Certificates, and Treasury Notes circulated. The Federal Reserve Act of 1913 standardized paper money and introduced 1914 100 Dollar FRN Kansas City, backed by the 12 Federal Reserve Banks.

The $100 denomination was primarily used for large transactions and bank reserves, resulting in fewer surviving examples today. Notes like this were instrumental in shaping the modern U.S. banking system.

Investment Potential & Collectibility

✔ First Series of Federal Reserve Notes – A foundational piece in U.S. currency history.
✔ Large-Size Format – Pre-1928 banknotes are more visually striking and highly sought after.
✔ PMG Certified (Trusted Third-Party Grading) – Ensures authenticity and long-term value.
✔ Rare Kansas City District Note – Less common than New York or Chicago issues.
✔ Increasingly Scarce in Collectible Grades – High-denomination notes saw extensive circulation, making well-preserved examples hard to find.

As collector demand for early $100 FRNs continues to grow, securing a well-preserved example like this is a strong investment opportunity.

How to Preserve & Protect This 1914 100 Dollar FRN Kansas City

To maintain the note’s condition and market value:

✔ Store in a PMG or PCGS-Certified Holder – Protects from environmental damage.
✔ Handle with Gloves or Tweezers – Avoids exposure to skin oils.
✔ Keep in a Climate-Controlled Environment – Prevents deterioration from moisture and temperature changes.
✔ Flat Storage Recommended – Avoids folds and creases that can lower the grade.

Final Thoughts – A Must-Have Historic Banknote

This 1914 100 Dollar FRN (Kansas City – Fr. 1120, PMG VF 25) is a remarkable piece of American currency history. With its large-size format, stunning design, strong color, and historical importance, this note is a must-have for collectors of Federal Reserve history, large-size currency, and rare U.S. banknotes.

Finding a well-centered, high-denomination large-size FRN from the Kansas City District in collectible condition is increasingly difficult, making this an excellent addition to any serious numismatic portfolio.