CSRR Federal Reserve Bank NO Canvas Money Bag

Add an authentic piece of Louisiana banking history to your collection with this vintage canvas money bag from the Federal Reserve Bank of New Orleans. Printed with the bold instructions “No. 4 – DO NOT CUT THIS BAG – RETURN TO FEDERAL RESERVE BANK NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA,” this heavy-duty sack harkens back to mid-20th century financial operations in the Crescent City. It features a sturdy drawstring top and a well-worn patina, evoking images of bustling bank vaults and Southern tellers handling currency shipments. The reverse side is marked “Semmes Bag – Memphis,” identifying its manufacturer as the Semmes Bag Company of Memphis (later part of McDowell Industries), a prominent sack maker operating since the 1940s . In fair vintage condition with age-appropriate discoloration and slight fraying at the top, this bag exudes authentic wear consistent with decades of service.

Features:

• Historic Provenance: Genuine Federal Reserve Bank canvas bag used for transporting currency or coin reserves. The New Orleans Branch of the Fed (est. 1915) was the first Federal Reserve branch in the U.S., serving regional banks in Louisiana and the Gulf South . Printed warnings like “DO NOT CUT THIS BAG” reflect the bank’s practice of reusing these sacks for security and economy .
• Material & Construction: Thick, durable cotton canvas with original black lettering. The bag measures approx. 19” x 10” – a generous size typical of mid-century bank bags – and closes with a sturdy drawstring. It was built to withstand heavy coins and bundles of banknotes.
• Maker’s Mark: Stenciled “Semmes Bag – Memphis” on the back. Semmes Bag Co. (later McDowell Industries) was a renowned Southern textile bag manufacturer, producing cotton sacks and printed logos since the mid-1940s . This mark attests to the bag’s authentic mid-20th century origin.
• Collectible Americana: A tangible relic of New Orleans banking history and U.S. financial heritage. Such canvas bags are increasingly appreciated by collectors of banking memorabilia and Americana for the stories they carry . (The Smithsonian Institution even includes old textile bags in its collections as symbols of our domestic and economic heritage .) The bold Federal Reserve markings and Southern origin make this piece especially compelling for display or conversation.
• Versatile Display: Whether showcased in a frame, used as a unique wall hanging, or repurposed in rustic décor, this bag brings vintage Southern charm to any setting. Its weathered canvas and faded lettering tell a story – perfect for a New Orleans themed space, man cave, or antiques gallery.