United States 5 Dollar Federal Reserve Note – Abraham Lincoln & Green Seal (1988 Series) Pick# 453 | Numista# 206
Issued in 1988 by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the $5 Federal Reserve Note continues the classic design tradition of U.S. currency. Featuring Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, this note reflects the enduring legacy of American leadership and monetary stability. The 1988 series is part of the pre-redesign era, preceding the major security upgrades introduced in the mid-1990s.
Design Highlights
Obverse: Displays a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, based on a photograph by Mathew Brady. The note includes the green Treasury seal, serial numbers, and the signatures of Treasurer Catalina Vasquez Villalpando and Secretary of the Treasury Nicholas F. Brady. The layout features ornate scrollwork and the Federal Reserve Bank identifier.
Reverse: Features the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., with the names of all 50 states inscribed around the monument. The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is prominently displayed above the memorial.
Color Scheme: Traditional green and black ink on off-white cotton-linen paper, consistent with U.S. currency aesthetics.
Key Specifications
Feature Description
Country United States
Issuer Federal Reserve System
Series 1988
Pick Number P# 453
Denomination 5 Dollars
Size 156 × 66 mm
Material Cotton-linen blend
Watermark None (standard for pre-1996 notes)
Security Features Microprinting, security fibers
Printer Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Seal Color Green
Serial Format Alphanumeric with optional star suffix (★)
Collectible Varieties
Star Notes: Replacement notes marked with a ★ at the end of the serial number. These are scarcer and can command $6–20 USD depending on condition and issuing bank.
Federal Reserve Bank Variants: Notes were issued by 12 different Federal Reserve Banks (A–L), with some blocks more desirable due to lower print runs or historical interest.
Why Collect This Note
The 1988 $5 bill offers collectors:
A snapshot of U.S. currency before the modern redesign era
A tribute to Abraham Lincoln and American heritage
A foundational piece for building a Federal Reserve Note type set
Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or just beginning your collection, this note represents a timeless and affordable entry into modern U.S. currency.
