By Barbara Palmgren
Before there were computers, before payments were made over the internet, before there was a single national currency that could be used in every state and around the world, there was colonial currency.
That currency will soon be available for viewing in 2026 in the Celebrate America 250! American Revolution exhibit at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida.
When word began to surface about the upcoming exhibit in Valparaiso, Dr. Tom McKnight and his wife, Sue, looked at one another and knew this would be a gift that could not be measured. They had intended to donate the collection to the museum in their will, but realized they wanted to share this treasure in time for the 250th anniversary of our nation. They removed the collection from their home and presented it to the museum so that countless visitors can appreciate the beginnings of paper money in America. Tom and Sue also know their children and grandchildren will be able to see it each time they visit.
The McKnights, who live in Bluewater Bay, have deep roots in the community. Dr. McKnight practiced family and preventive medicine locally, with a private practice and work at both Eglin and Hurlburt medical centers. He now serves as a physician at the Eglin VA hospital.
Married more than 51 years, Tom recalled surprising Sue with the purchase of this historic collection representing currency from all 13 British colonies prior to independence. While visiting Mount Vernon’s gift shop, he discovered the rare set. After a sleepless night weighing the decision, he returned the next day to make the purchase. Sue was delighted when the collection arrived.
Speaking as a trustee for the museum, we are equally thrilled. During the interview, many fascinating details emerged. Benjamin Franklin received permission from England to issue currency to the colonies and printed notes for Pennsylvania. To deter counterfeiting, printers used unique leaf patterns that were nearly impossible to replicate.
Colonial currency was often used to pay debts, and once used, a hole was punched in the note so it could not circulate again. Following the Revolution, Alexander Hamilton is credited with establishing a unified national currency, helping stabilize the economy and facilitate trade.
Within the collection, notes from Massachusetts and New Hampshire bear these punched holes. Each piece is signed by a prominent colonist, including signers of the Declaration of Independence, and at the center is an image depicting its signing.
And so, it has come full circle — from colonial currency to independence, from Mount Vernon to Northwest Florida, and now into the hands of a grateful community.
Thank you, Tom and Sue. Words are not enough to express gratitude for this remarkable gift that will be shared for generations to come.
