Issurer Isthmian Canal Commission. This was the U.S. government entity set up by Congress to build the canal. I would appreciate e-mail from anyone who can add any numbers to this list. Manufacturer Unknown, but probably American Railway Supply Co. Some stars have had their points rounded off, probably by their original owner when they got poked one too many times.
Some checks have one or two additional small holes.
If the lettering and numbers are undamaged, there is no reduction in value for these holes. Historical Note Timekeepers were instructed to collect 50 cents from contract laborers who failed to turn in their star-shaped checks. This provision did not apply to American citizens. Approximately one-sixth of the work force was American citizens.