Confederate Dollar

Just before the start of the U.S. Civil War in 1861, the Confederate States of America decided to issue Confederate dollars to fund their war effort. The only problem was that these dollars were not backed up by any assets, such as gold. Rather, they were more like a promissory note that would be paid back after the war, assuming a southern victory. Like what you'd leave in your dad's sock drawer after "borrowing" twenty bucks.

Throughout the war, the Confederacy continued to print “Greybacks,” as they were called, to match the grey uniforms of their soldiers. This led to spiraling inflation, so by the end of the war a Confederate dollar was worth just six cents to the federal dollar.

There was quite a variety of bills printed, showing generals, politicians, gods, and goddesses, and even scenes of slave life. In an ironic twist of fate, Confederate dollars are now sought-after collector’s items and sell for big bucks to those seeking Civil War memorabilia or currencies no longer in existence. So be sure to check your dad's sock drawer for those while you're at it.