FR. CC-27 $5 Feb. 17, 1776 Continental Currency PMG 65 EPQ

This is the FINEST KNOWN $5 February 17, 1776 Continental Currency Note PMG has graded.  Graded GEM 65 EPQ, the detail is superb and unlike most examples, the inscription is clear and easy to read.  On the front you will see a bleeding hand pricked by a thorny bush.  Around it are the words in Latin “SUSTINE VEL ABSTINE” which translate to “Either support or leave me.”  According to the book titled “Writings” authored by J.A. Lemay, Benjamin Franklin who had a direct hand in designing these notes stated the thorny bush represented America and that the bleeding hand Britain.  Paraphrasing, Benjamin Franklin said that the bleeding hand would eventually heal however the thorns would grow and continue to protect the bush from its enemies.  When one studies pre/early United States paper money, it becomes clear that the symbolism used on these notes is fascinating and deserving of further research. To think one can secure the FINEST KNOWN example at this level, it becomes clear the potential this note possesses is huge.