EASTON  Pennsylvania 

The Borough of Easton

Northampton County

15¢          Dec. 1, 1862 

Civil War Municipal scrip

~ 6 X 2 1/2  inches

Offered here is a rare 15¢ scrip note dated December 1, 1862, issued by the Borough of Easton, Northampton County, Pennsylvania. During the Civil War, coins vanished from circulation as copper and silver were hoarded. To meet everyday needs, municipalities, merchants, and banks issued fractional scrip in odd denominations such as this 15¢ note.

Unlike merchant scrip, this issue carried official legitimacy, being receivable for borough taxes and backed by local government funds. The design features an allegorical vignette of a woman holding a child and a sheaf of wheat, symbolizing prosperity and family. Bold “15” counters and ornate borders frame the text: “The Borough of Easton will pay bearer in current funds FIFTEEN CENTS. Receivable for all Borough Taxes.” Hand‑signed by borough officials, including Secretary Wm. H. Rod, the note reflects both civic pride and wartime necessity.

Civil War municipal scrip from Easton is scarce, and the unusual 15¢ denomination adds to its appeal. A strong addition for collectors of Pennsylvania obsoletes, Civil War scrip, or municipal tax‑receivable notes.