Even before our Independence, the Continental Congress had effected the first issue of currency. The first note was a $20 on special paper supplied by Ben Franklin. The eleven issues of currency from May 1775 to January 1779 helped pay for the cost of The Revolution, but it was all to soon that the slogan "Not worth a Continental (Dollar)" came true.
This reference (just released Oct. 2011), designed for the specialist and dealer, offers the most complete data to be found anywhere for small-size currency, organized and listed by specific series, including accurate population figures for each. The book also contains detailed tutorial information. Most up-to-date census for all U.S. small-size currency.