Vermont’s national banknote history reflects a state rooted in independence, craftsmanship, and small-town enterprise. As one of the earliest adopters of the National Banking System, Vermont’s banks helped finance agriculture, manufacturing, and regional trade. From the marble quarries of Rutland to the mill towns of Brattleboro and St. Johnsbury, Vermont’s national banknotes tell a story of civic pride, economic resilience, and Yankee ingenuity.

A Compact but Historic Network of Issuers

Between 1863 and 1935, 80 national banks across Vermont issued currency, spanning 51 towns and 13 counties. Early institutions like the First National Bank of Springfield (Charter #122) and the First National Bank of Bennington (Charter #130) helped anchor the state’s financial system during the post-Civil War years. Banks in towns such as Chelsea, Middlebury, and St. Albans issued notes that circulated through general stores, rail depots, and lumber yards—each bearing the signatures of local bankers and the imprint of their communities.

Currency as a Chronicle of Vermont Identity

Vermont national banknotes offer a vivid portrait of the state’s economic and cultural diversity. A $5 Series 1882 Brown Back from the First National Bank of North Bennington, signed by S.B. Hall and J.G. McCullough, exemplifies the artistry and rarity of early currency. Notes from banks in Orwell, Bellows Falls, and White River Junction reflect the state’s evolving industries—from dairy and marble to publishing and tourism. With only about 2,300 Vermont national banknotes reported in collector circles, surviving examples are especially valued for their scarcity and historical significance.

Conclusion

Today, Vermont national banknotes are cherished artifacts of New England finance and civic heritage. Whether issued in the shadow of Montpelier’s capitol dome or the quiet streets of a mountain village, each note is a tangible link to the people and institutions that shaped the Green Mountain State. In the broader narrative of American currency, Vermont’s contribution stands as a testament to leadership, legacy, and local pride.