ries of U.S. $1 Federal Reserve Notes issued in 1963, particularly notable for bearing the signature of Joseph W. Barr, who served as Secretary of the Treasury for a brief period (28 days). His short tenure led to the notes being relatively scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
Key Features of Barr Notes:
- They feature the signature of Joseph W. Barr, who was the Secretary of the Treasury during the latter part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's administration.
- They belong to the 1963 series of Federal Reserve Notes.
- They feature the portrait of George Washington on the face, which has been the standard on $1 bills since that time.
- Due to Barr's short tenure, notes with his signature are considered relatively rare and sought after by collectors.
- Barr Notes were only issued from five of the twelve Federal Reserve districts: New York, Richmond, Chicago, Kansas City, and San Francisco.
Why They are Collectible:
- Barr's short time as Secretary of the Treasury, just 28 days, means there are fewer notes with his signature in circulation, making them more valuable.
- They represent a specific period in US currency history and a brief change in leadership at the Treasury.
- The 1963 series was the first to feature George Washington's portrait on all $1 bills, a design that remains standard.