West Virginia’s national banknote history reflects a state shaped by coal, railroads, and postwar transformation. As the only state formed during the Civil War, West Virginia’s banks emerged to support mining towns, timber camps, and growing cities. From the industrial centers of Charleston and Huntington to the quiet towns of Elkins and Gormania, West Virginia’s national banknotes tell a story of civic pride, economic ambition, and Appalachian resilience.

A Widespread Network of Issuers

Between 1863 and 1935, 177 national banks across West Virginia issued currency, spanning 112 towns and 49 counties. Early institutions like the First National Bank of Parkersburg (Charter #180) and the Merchants National Bank of Clarksburg (Charter #1530) helped anchor the state’s financial system during Reconstruction. Banks in towns such as Bluefield, Fairmont, and Beckley issued notes that circulated through general stores, coal depots, and rail hubs—each bearing the signatures of local bankers and the imprint of their communities.

Currency as a Chronicle of West Virginia Identity

West Virginia national banknotes offer a vivid portrait of the state’s economic and cultural diversity. A $10 Series 1902 Red Seal from the First National Bank of Fairmont, signed by D.N. Freeman and Samuel A. Bonnifield, exemplifies the elegance and rarity of early currency. Notes from banks in Welch, Martinsburg, and Point Pleasant reflect the state’s evolving industries—from coal and timber to publishing and trade. With only about 5,500 West Virginia national banknotes reported in collector circles, surviving examples are especially valued for their scarcity and historical significance.

Conclusion

Today, West Virginia national banknotes are cherished artifacts of Appalachian finance and civic heritage. Whether issued in the shadow of Charleston’s capitol dome or the quiet streets of a mountain town, each note is a tangible link to the people and institutions that shaped the Mountain State. In the broader narrative of American currency, West Virginia’s contribution stands as a testament to grit, growth, and enduring legacy.