Nice firm paper body, zero issues.


The 1918 $2 Federal Reserve Bank Note, colloquially known as the "Battleship" note, is a distinctive and highly prized piece of United States currency, celebrated for its unique design and historical significance. The nickname "Battleship" derives from the note's reverse design, which prominently features an illustration of a U.S. Navy battleship at sea, capturing the nation's growing military prowess and technological advancement in the early 20th century.


The obverse of the note features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States and principal author of the Declaration of Independence, symbolizing the country's foundational values of liberty and democracy. This side of the note also includes intricate designs typical of the period, showcasing the sophisticated craftsmanship of banknote engraving and the efforts to prevent counterfeiting, a common concern at the time.


However, it is the reverse side that sets this note apart and gives it its nickname. The depiction of the battleship, believed by many to be the USS New York, serves not only as a testament to the American naval force but also reflects the geopolitical context of the time. The year 1918 marks a critical period during World War I, when the United States played a pivotal role in the conflict, and the image of the battleship symbolizes the country's readiness and strength.


The choice of a battleship as a central motif also speaks to the broader theme of industrialization and technological advancement, highlighting the significant role of naval power in the global dynamics of the early 20th century. The note's design, therefore, not only serves a practical monetary function but also carries deep symbolic meanings, embodying themes of national pride, military strength, and technological progress.


The 1918 $2 Federal Reserve Bank Note "Battleship" remains a coveted item among numismatists and historians alike, appreciated not only for its artistic and aesthetic appeal but also for its rich embodiment of a significant era in American and world history. Its rarity and distinctive design make it a standout piece in any collection, representing a tangible connection to the past and the unfolding story of the United States.