The Promissory note was a common payment format that existed for several
hundred years and well into the 20th Century - these were the standard for
many international merchants. Presented here are some early American
( mostly 1815 - 1820 ) types, all handwritten, and all from Connecticut.
In effect they say, that they promise to pay, such and such merchant
in a period of such and such, the amount of $xxx.

And occasionally denoting at which bank, said sum was payable.

One of the more interesting features of these early American
' promissory notes ' is the Governmental revenue tax formula
embossed ( blind or mute embossed, as no color is displayed )
on each, showing the ' eagle & shield ' along with the tax amount.
These are all in extremely fine condition.