Fractional currency is a type of currency that was issued in the United States from 1862 to 1876. It was created as a response to the shortage of coins during the Civil War. The currency was issued in denominations of 3, 5, 10, 15, 25, and 50 cents. One of the most common forms of fractional currency was scrip, which was issued by private companies and banks. Scrip was used as a substitute for coins and was redeemable for goods and services.