 Current Money of Virginia. March 4, 1773 (September 1773 Issue). Three Pounds. No.1/25.6. Signed by P.[eyton] Randolph and John Blair; countersigned on back by Robert Carter Nicholas. Printed on laid paper, nearly complete and visible 'VIRGINIA' watermark across center. Standard large format ''Ashby'' note, approximately 165mm by 120mm. Uniface, indented bill. Arms at top over shaded block with denomination, ornate indent at left signed 'Ashby sc London'.
A handsome issue of large format bills that were engraved and printed in England. After export, they were indented (curve cut at the left), signed, numbered and issued. The 1773 Ashby bills are much tougher than the 1775 Ashby bills. A choice example from the first series of serial numbers on the denomination type. Fine to Very Fine. Horizontal crease and multi-folds. However, bright enough to look higher grade. Bottom back edge ink spot, seen on the face edge.
Ex Olga E. Raymond, October 22, 1961; Wayte Raymond Estate.
The grading standards for large format 1773 and 1775 Ashby bills are different than most Colonial currency. They are small document size and almost always were folded and flattened out later by collectors. They can have nineteen folds and be ''Very Fine'' based on their eye appeal, printing clarity, and overall paper strength. Using the same standards as an 1899 ''Chief'' would net the grade at Good and that would be silly.
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