United Colonies Continental Currency – Three Dollars

An emission totaling $5,000,000 payable in Spanish milled dollars, or the equivalent in gold or silver, was authorized by the Continental Congress resolutions of May 9th and 27th, 1776. This issue is similar to that of the November 29, 1775 issue except for the bottom border which reads from left to right toward the bottom of the note, whereas in all other issues it looks upside down and reads toward the center of the bill. Denominations include the: $1, $2, $3, $4, $5, $6, $7 and $8.
The seal on the bill is a combat between an eagle and a crane. The eagle on the wing has pounced upon the inferior bird; but the latter, moved by the natural law of self-preservation, turns upon the aggressor and receives him on the point of his long bill that pierces the eagle’s breast. The motto EXITUS IN DUBIO —translated "The end is in doubt" or "The result is uncertain" —- is explained by the device. The eagle represents Great Britain and the crane represents America. The crane (America) is warned not to count too much upon the success of its endeavors, such as petitions, remonstrances, negotiations, etc., but to use those means which God has placed in its power. The eagle (Britain) is admonished not to presume too much on its superior strength, as a weaker bird may mortally wound it.