Confederate States Of America 100 Dollar Bill 1862
The Confederate States of America, also known as the Confederacy, was a government formed by 11 southern states that seceded from the United States in 1861. During the Civil War, the Confederacy issued its own currency, including the 100 dollar bill.
Design and Features
The Confederate 100 dollar bill, issued in 1862, featured a portrait of Confederate Vice President Alexander H. Stephens on the front. The back of the bill depicted a scene of slaves picking cotton, with a quote from the book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible.
Like other Confederate currency, the 100 dollar bill was not backed by gold or silver, but rather by the faith in the Confederate government.
Circulation and Value
Due to the Confederate government's financial struggles during the Civil War, the 100 dollar bill was not widely circulated and was considered to be of low value. In fact, by the end of the war, inflation had rendered Confederate currency virtually worthless.
Today, the 100 dollar bill and other Confederate currency are highly sought after by collectors, with some bills selling for thousands of dollars at auction.
Controversy
The use of Confederate symbols, including currency, has been a source of controversy in recent years. Many argue that the symbols represent a legacy of racism and slavery, while others argue that they represent Southern heritage and pride.
In 2020, the Mississippi state flag, which featured the Confederate battle emblem, was retired and replaced with a new design.
Conclusion
The Confederate States of America 100 dollar bill is a piece of history that speaks to the economic struggles of the Confederacy during the Civil War. While it may hold value as a collector's item, it also serves as a reminder of the complex legacy of the Confederacy and its symbols in American history.