09/18/2025
A Sweet Piece of Athens History!
"The National Bank Fruitcake Find"
Imagine uncovering a treasure trove of over 1,500 uncirculated fractional currency notes from 1874–1875, stashed in an old Benson’s Bakery fruitcake box since the 1970s! Dubbed the “National Bank Fruitcake Find,” this incredible discovery hails from The First National Bank of Athens, founded in 1866.
3-cent, 10-cent, 15-cent, 25-cent, and 50-cent notes were issued during the Civil War to combat a coin shortage caused by folks hoarding gold and silver. Adding a local twist, William H. Crawford who is on these Fifth Issue 50-cent notes is buried just 14 miles away in Crawford, Georgia, named in his honor—has ties to this era. Fun fact: Crawford was a colorful figure who killed a man in a duel and was wounded by Ben Clark, son of Clarke County’s namesake, Elijah Clarke!
Now, Heritage Auctions is offering this collection in 12 lots, with one including the original Benson’s Fruitcake box, marked with a 1978 sticker and traces of a Treasury label. Check out the full story and stunning images on Heritage Auctions’ site by searching “National Bank Fruitcake Find.”
Do you have any memories of Benson’s Bakery or have stories about the old National Bank of Athens? Share below and let’s celebrate this slice of Athens history!
