$1 Martha Washington Silver Certificate

• Historic First: The only U.S. paper currency ever issued featuring a real-life woman as the primary portrait—Martha Washington, America’s original First Lady.

• Dual-Year Legacy: Originally released in 1886 as the first $1 Silver Certificate and reissued in 1891 with a revised design, this note is ranked #50 in 100 Greatest American Currency Notes.

• Collectible & Beautiful: Features an ornate design with a bold red Treasury seal, Martha’s elegant portrait, and fine engraving—each note offered in Fine condition, preserving its vintage charm and historic value.

Step back into the late 19th century with one of the most iconic and groundbreaking pieces of U.S. paper currency—the $1 Martha Washington Silver Certificate. Issued in 1886 and again in 1891, this historic note isn’t just a relic of a silver-backed monetary system; it’s a tribute to the woman who helped shape the soul of a young nation.

Featuring Martha Washington as the central portrait, this remains the first and only U.S. paper currency to prominently feature a real woman—an honor not granted lightly. Revered as the “Mother of our Country,” Martha’s presence on this note wasn’t just symbolic, it was revolutionary for its time. These silver certificates could once be redeemed for a full silver dollar, making them not just beautiful, but valuable in both form and function.

The 1886 series holds special historical weight, being the very first $1 Silver Certificate ever printed, and was later honored as #50 in the influential book 100 Greatest American Currency Notes. The design proved so admired that Martha Washington reappeared in 1891 with slight revisions, further cementing her place in American numismatic lore.

The obverse showcases her dignified portrait on the left, balanced by an ornate “1” within a decorative frame on the right, and a bold red spiked Treasury seal near center—an eye-catching element that makes these notes a visual masterpiece. Each note offered here is in Fine condition, meaning it has a story to tell from its time in everyday circulation.

Whether you're a currency collector, a history enthusiast, or someone who appreciates America’s trailblazing women, the Martha Washington Silver Certificate is a must-have. Add a true first to your collection—a banknote that broke barriers and still stands apart today.