New Hampshire’s national banknote history reflects a state rooted in independence, industry, and small-town enterprise. As one of the original thirteen colonies, New Hampshire transitioned from colonial scrip and state-chartered banks to a network of national institutions that supported textile mills, railroads, and regional commerce. From the mill towns of Manchester and Keene to the quiet villages of Colebrook and Warner, New Hampshire’s national banknotes tell a story of civic pride, economic resilience, and Yankee ingenuity.

A Compact but Diverse Network of Issuers

Between 1863 and 1935, 78 national banks across New Hampshire issued currency, spanning 47 towns and 10 counties. Early institutions like the First National Bank of Portsmouth (Charter #19) and the Amoskeag National Bank of Manchester (Charter #574) helped anchor the state’s financial system during the post-Civil War years. Banks in towns such as Lebanon, Claremont, and Dover issued notes that circulated through general stores, textile mills, and rail depots—each bearing the signatures of local bankers and the imprint of their communities.

Currency as a Chronicle of New Hampshire Identity

New Hampshire national banknotes offer a vivid portrait of the state’s economic and cultural diversity. A $1 Original Series note from the Kearsarge National Bank of Warner, signed by G.C. George and Joshua George, exemplifies the rarity and charm of early currency. Notes from banks in Rochester, Franklin, and Woodsville reflect the state’s evolving industries—from paper and publishing to agriculture and tourism. With only about 3,400 New Hampshire national banknotes reported in collector circles, surviving examples are especially valued for their scarcity and historical significance.

Conclusion

Today, New Hampshire national banknotes are cherished artifacts of New England finance and civic heritage. Whether issued in the shadow of Manchester’s mills or the quiet streets of a White Mountains town, each note is a tangible link to the people and institutions that shaped the Granite State. In the broader narrative of American currency, New Hampshire’s contribution stands as a testament to leadership, legacy, and local pride.