Description and research notes
Organized in May 1927, The Thomas County National Bank of Colby, Kansas, was one of the last institutions chartered under the National Banking Act, entering the system just as small-town banks faced increasing consolidation pressures. Chartered as number 13076, it was led by cashier N. Reimers and president W. D. Ferguson, whose engraved signatures appear boldly in dark ink on this note. Despite its late founding date, the bank issued both large-size 1902 Plain Backs and small-size 1929 series notes before the National system’s absorption into the FDIC framework in the mid-1930s.
This large-size five-dollar note represents the 1902 Plain Back design (Friedberg 609), printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and engraved with the portrait of President Benjamin Harrison at left. The face layout features ornate border devices, blue charter numerals, and an elaborate typographic display reading 'The Thomas County National Bank of Colby, Kansas' across the center. Serial 29-D and plate number 1395 identify this as an exceptionally early example from the bank’s inaugural issue year, dated May 5, 1927, just one week before its official charter approval.
PMG designates this piece as a 'Minor Misalignment of Serial Numbers' error, an unusual mechanical anomaly in which the overprinting of serials deviated slightly from alignment during production. Such errors on National Bank Notes are extremely scarce, as serial placement was closely monitored to maintain consistency across charter runs. The combination of a near-Gem grade, early serial, and visible printing irregularity places this note among the most intriguing survivors from western Kansas.
Certified PCGS Currency 64 Very Choice New, the note retains strong embossing, ideal inks, and bright white paper. It stands as both a testament to the final years of National Bank issuance and a physical record of small-town American finance during the transitional period between the National system and the modern Federal Reserve era.