Fr # | 2301m* |
Year | 1934 |
Denomination | $5.00 |
Series | Federal Reserve |
Serial # | L00178348 |
Grade | PMG 20 |
PMG # | 2195803-011 |
PMC Category | Gold |
Estimated Value | $2,000.00 |
The 1934 $5 Hawaii Emergency Issue Star Note (Mule) is one of the most iconic and historically significant pieces of U.S. currency from the World War II era. Issued as part of the Emergency Issue series for the Hawaiian Islands, this note was designed to protect U.S. currency in the event of a Japanese invasion of Hawaii during the war. The “Hawaii” overprint was applied to distinguish this currency from mainland notes, allowing it to be easily identified and recalled if necessary.
This particular note is a Mule, a term used in numismatics to describe a currency note that features mismatched designs or engravings that were not intended to be combined. In the case of the 1934 $5 Hawaii Star Mule, the note was printed with the reverse design of a 1934 series note and the obverse of the 1934A series. This error makes the Mule notes highly collectible and rare, as they were printed during the transition between series and only a small number were released before the printing process was corrected.
The Star Note designation indicates that this note replaced a misprinted or defective note, further adding to its rarity and value among collectors. The star symbol in the serial number, combined with the Hawaii overprint, makes this note a highly desirable piece for those collecting World War II currency and emergency issues.
The obverse features the familiar portrait of Abraham Lincoln, with the distinct red Treasury Seal that was typical of the time. The “Hawaii” overprint is prominently displayed across the face of the note in large letters, marking it as part of the special issue for the Hawaiian Islands. The reverse retains the traditional design of the 1934 series, with a large “5” at the center and decorative elements surrounding it."