Collect Precious Pieces of American History

U.S. Silver Certificate bills were authorized under the Bland-Allison Act of February 28, 1878. Under this Act, the U.S. Treasury was instructed to purchase $2 million-$4 million worth of silver each month from western mines. Silver Certificates were issues of paper money that were backed by equivalent dollar amounts of silver in the U.S. Treasury. Until 1964, each Silver Certificate bill was redeemable in silver dollars payable to the bearer on demand. However, due to rising silver prices the Treasury began redeeming them for silver bullion instead. In just a few years, most Silver Certificates in circulation were redeemed. Redemption for silver ceased entirely on June 28, 1968. After that, Silver Certificates remained legal tender but could only be exchanged for Federal Reserve Notes or spent at face value.

Silver Certificate Sizes and Denominations

U.S. Silver Certificates were issued in two sizes. Large-Size Silver Certificates measuring 7 3/8" x 3 1/8" were issued from 1878-1929 in nine denominations: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, $500 and $1,000. Beginning in 1928, the size was reduced to modern standards of 6 1/8" x 2 5/8". These notes are known as Small-Size Silver Certificates and were issued in three denominations: $1, $5 and $10.

Discover Single Products and Silver Certificate Sets

If you're in search of U.S. Silver Certificates for your collection, Littleton's extensive inventory can help you find exactly what you're looking for. We offer both single notes and sets in a variety of dates, sizes and denominations, from historic notes bearing intricate designs to coveted World War II emergency issues and more. Set your paper money collection apart by shopping our selection of Silver Certificates for sale today!