USA Money Is Just So Boring ; But Not The Old Stuff . . .

I completely disagree with you 150 years ago if they could see the money that we have today they would be astonished. And in another hundred and fifty years we'll look back on these notes that we have and be amazed with what they were. I don't know where you're from but you must have some pretty amazing currency. Money's money. Especially when it comes to paper currency. I think it's in the eye of the beholder each no is different yes symmetrically the same but each note is different and unique to its own number. But I do agree with you the notes from they 1800s and early 20s are pretty darn cool man .

If you don't like modern USA money, branch into world banknotes! There are so many fabulous designs you will never get bored. Also,they tend to be easily available in pristine state for very little.

- I have to side with "SteveinTampa" (it is difficult to comprehend what your question is)

-My initial impression is that you're making a few sweeping statements which could be summed up as:
a) old US banknotes = beautiful designs
b) new US banknotes = boring/ugly designs
c) capitalist countries produce drab banknotes
-I think most advanced collectors dig the old designs b/c they are printed on larger formats (as "Steve_" points out) but they also seek tougher/rarer examples the longer they've been at it (typically). The older the note the harder it is to get in high grades. I really would love to get my hands on any 1 of the Educational series (but have found them dear/rarely offered in higher grades). Some collectors would say that almost all older banknotes are more beautiful than their newer "descendants."

As far as points b) & c) go: there are many beautiful newer designs (back of 1976 is perfect example) & as "DeLoss" observes the colourization of recent issues make the newer currency pretty impressive (IMO). I really disagree with c) as 3/4 of my 1232 page SCWPM catalogue is packed with god-awful designs originating from communist/totalitarian regimes & some nations which would be considered pretty capitalistic.




-this is a very opaque question. 97-99% of issued notes would be well circulated & a few are tucked away (or preserved) in their "original" condition. The newer the series the more tucked away in higher grades. Of those 2-3% (nicer/collectible) another 97-99% would be considered common whereas only only 2-3% would be special #/star notes/errors (more collectible). These "rare" collectible banknotes are what serious collectors wish to attain (thus higher BV). But it gets more complicated than that since a) some series (& denominations) may have been hoarded (so cataloguers discount their BV) & b) rarity does not always equal high book value because collector demand comes into play.

Does this answer your question? If you are struggling re: grading a banknote then may I suggest viewing one of the videos I created (below my post)?

The problem with texting, blogging, written forums is that it is flat, can easily be misinterpreted, you can't always properly recognize joking, see facial expressions, voice inflection to a messages meaning, etc.

My fellow CCF'ers here are more calm and kind in there well thought out messages than I.




Maybe I'm mistaken, but my reading of the original post, is someone who doesn't care much for America, all it has done for the rest of the world, it's rich heritage, and the freedoms it provides. And while all have the freedom to say what they want, that doesn't mean they should. It's hurtful.
As someone who spent their entire adult life serving this Country and the people of my State, I am offended by your comment.

As a world traveler I find seeing and experiencing other Country's cultures and people fascinating, and I'm richer for it. While I may personally not agree with everything other countries do, I wouldn't say it to them, instead I would respect the pride they have for their nation.

The beauty of America, is the freedom to leave and not participate in its activities, forums, and traditions and heritage.

Our currency is rich in heritage and pride in our Nation, please do not call it boring.

If I'm wrong in my interpretation, then I apologize.