Texas’s national banknote history reflects a state forged by independence, expansion, and economic ambition. As the Republic of Texas transitioned into statehood, its banking system evolved from frontier scrip and private issues into a robust network of national banks. From the ports of Galveston to the cattle towns of Fort Worth and the oil fields of Midland, Texas’s national banknotes tell a story of grit, growth, and regional pride.

A Vast and Varied Network of Issuers

Between 1863 and 1935, 917 national banks across Texas issued currency, making it one of the most prolific states in the National Bank Note Era. Early institutions like the First National Bank of Galveston (Charter #1566) and the First National Bank of Houston (Charter #1644) helped anchor the state’s financial system. Banks in towns such as Taylor, Electra, and Corsicana issued notes that circulated through cotton markets, rail depots, and general stores—each bearing the signatures of local bankers and the imprint of their communities.

Currency as a Chronicle of Texas Identity

Texas national banknotes offer a vivid portrait of the state’s economic diversity. A $5 Series 1882 Brown Back from the First National Bank of Shiner, signed by Philip Welhausen and Wm. Green, captures the elegance and optimism of a small-town institution. Notes from banks in San Antonio, Waco, and El Paso reflect the state’s evolving industries—from cattle and cotton to oil and trade. With only about 21,000 Texas national banknotes reported in collector circles, surviving examples are especially valued for their scarcity and historical significance.

Conclusion

Today, Texas national banknotes are cherished artifacts of frontier finance and civic heritage. Whether issued in the shadow of Houston’s skyline or the quiet streets of a Hill Country town, each note is a tangible link to the people and institutions that shaped the Lone Star State. In the broader narrative of American currency, Texas’s contribution stands as a testament to independence, enterprise, and enduring legacy.