The face of an instrument is that which is shown by the mere language employed, without any explanation, modification, or addition from extrinsic facts or evidence. Thus, if the express terms of the paper disclose a fatal legal defect it la said to be “void on its face.”
Regarded as an evidence of debt, the face of an instrument is the principal sum which it expresses to be due or payable, without any additions in the way of interest or costs. Thus, the expression “the face of a judgment” means the sum for which the judgment was rendered, excluding the interest accrued thereon. Osgood v. Bringolf, 32 Iowa, 265.