1st Century Bancshares (FCTY) 8-K As the enclosed graph displays, 1st Century Bank continues to be one of the most

Exhibit 99.1

November 20, 2009

Dear Client/Shareholder,

As the enclosed graph displays, 1^st Century Bank continues to be one of the most

well-capitalized banks in Southern California.  

1^st Century Bank Capital Breakdown:

·

Risk Based Capital Ratio = 21.3%.

·

100% of our capital is pure common equity.

·

NO TARP.

·

NO Trust Preferred.

·

NO subordinated debt.

·

NO other kind of "quasi-equity".

The key measurement of a bank’s health is itsCAPITAL, and now more than ever this is of paramount importance.  

We have positioned our bank to withstand this current economic cycle and stand confidently poised for growth in the years to come.  We are both shareholders and clients of this bank and have full faith in our board and the talented team we have built to continue moving this bank forward into a successful future.

We appreciate your continued commitment to and confidence in 1^st Century Bank.    

As always, feel free to contact either of us if you have any questions at all.  Or better yet, come in and pay us a visit.

Sincerely,

Alan I. Rothenberg

Jason P. DiNapoli

Chairman

President & CEO

310.270.9501

310.270.9505