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Original 1866 Civil War–Era Promissory Note with U.S. Internal Revenue Stamp
Offered is an authentic handwritten promissory note dated April 1, 1866, executed during the early Reconstruction period following the Civil War. The note promises payment of $117 on demand with interest (“with use”), signed by Elisha Cady, and payable to Dennis Sours.
A 5¢ U.S. Internal Revenue stamp is affixed and cancelled in period, accompanied by the handwritten notation “Stamp not Paid,” reflecting post-war revenue compliance issues under the Internal Revenue Acts. The reverse of the document bears a partial payment endorsement dated December 10, 1869, signed E. Cady, demonstrating continued real-world use several years after issuance.
Details:
Date: April 1, 1866
Amount: $117
Signed: Elisha Cady
Payee: Dennis Sours
Revenue Stamp: U.S. Internal Revenue 5¢
Notation: “Stamp not Paid”
Endorsed payment on verso (1869)
Condition:
Good antique condition with expected toning, fold lines, and age-related wear. Text, signatures, and revenue stamp remain fully legible. No restoration.
A strong example of Civil War–era financial and legal ephemera, appealing to collectors of:
Guaranteed original.
