Mississippi’s national banknote history reflects a state shaped by agriculture, river trade, and postwar transformation. As cotton markets flourished and railroads expanded across the Delta and hill country, local banks emerged to support commerce and civic growth. From the riverfront cities of Vicksburg and Natchez to the quiet towns of Pontotoc and Poplarville, Mississippi’s national banknotes tell a story of Southern resilience, financial ingenuity, and local pride.

A Widespread Network of Issuers

Between 1863 and 1935, 66 national banks across Mississippi issued currency, spanning 39 towns and 35 counties. Early institutions like the First National Bank of Jackson (Charter #1610) and the National Bank of Vicksburg (Charter #803) helped anchor the state’s financial system during Reconstruction. Banks in towns such as Greenville, Laurel, and Columbus issued notes that circulated through general stores, cotton gins, and rail depots—each bearing the signatures of local bankers and the imprint of their communities.

Currency as a Chronicle of Mississippi Identity

Mississippi national banknotes offer a vivid portrait of the state’s economic and cultural diversity. A $50 Series 1902 Plain Back from the Citizens National Bank of Vicksburg, signed by E.L. Brien Jr. and Geo. B. Hackett, exemplifies the elegance and rarity of early currency. Notes from banks in Biloxi, Oxford, and Hattiesburg reflect the state’s evolving industries—from timber and textiles to publishing and education. With only about 2,300 Mississippi national banknotes reported in collector circles, surviving examples are especially valued for their scarcity and historical significance.

Conclusion

Today, Mississippi national banknotes are cherished artifacts of Southern finance and civic heritage. Whether issued in the shadow of Jackson’s capitol dome or the quiet streets of a Delta town, each note is a tangible link to the people and institutions that shaped the Magnolia State. In the broader narrative of American currency, Mississippi’s contribution stands as a testament to leadership, legacy, and local pride.