Skull & Crossbones Small Change Note

This Halloween-themed 1-penny small change note originates from Elizabeth, New Jersey, where it was printed by in 1790. Wikipedia identifies the printer () as most likely Shephard Kollock, Jr. (1750-1839). Kollock published the New Jersey Journal during the Revolutionary War and later published proceedings of the New Jersey State legislature. Kollock also produced the 3, 4, and 6-penny notes of this date, although these do not depict the skull on the reverse. These notes served as and were suitably thick to allow for some degree of circulation. The use of a skull on paper money is uncommon, and perhaps acted as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life (and money too, in this context).

Image: Borough of Elizabeth, March 25, 1790, 1-Penny small change note. Fr. NJ-219. Ex. Newman Internet Sale 1 (Heritage Auctions, May 2016), lot 86410, realized $616.88.

Link to Early Paper Money of America (Newman Portal online edition):
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/imagecollection/513468