- Author: Republic of Texas
- Date: November 4 1837
- Medium: Original Currency
- Condition: Very Good
- Inches: 7 1/8 x 3 1/2 unframed
- Centimeters: 18.27 x 8.97 unframed
- Product ID: 000150
The first issue of notes made by the Republic of Texas was authorized by an Act of (the Texas) Congress passed June 9, 1837. The notes were payable 12 months from the date of issue and bore 10% interest. Most, if not all, of the design ornaments are recycled from those used on the many warrant issues.
Called "Star Notes", they are among the most prized of all Republic currency.
There are a number of varieties including at least eight different types of paper. Most of these varieties center on variations in how the title for "Secretary of the Treasury" is abbreviated and minor ornamental differences.
Republic of Texas can be seen in large decorative panel across the end surrounded by decoration, and you can see Fifty Dollars written on the opposite end. The center has a 50 encased by a simple rectangular counter, a large white "Lone Star", and a roman numeral L also surrounded by a counter. At the top you can read the issue number of the bill (718). All were signed by William Gordon Cooke for Sam Houston, President, and by Henry Smith, Secretary of Treasury. From June 1837 to November 1839, Cooke was the official signer of Sam Houston's name to promissory notes issued by the Republic due to Houston's army injury.