The $2 bill holds a unique place in American currency, often overlooked yet rich in history and potential value. While many $2 bills are worth their face value, certain serial numbers can significantly increase their worth to collectors.
This article explores eight rare $2 bills distinguished by their serial numbers, offering insights into their unique features and approximate values.
1. 1928B Red Seal Star Note
The 1928B series $2 bill features a red Treasury seal and serial numbers. Star notes, indicated by a star symbol (*) preceding the serial number, were replacements for misprinted or damaged notes, making them rarer.
- Serial Number Example: *00123456B
- Unique Feature: Star symbol before the serial number
- Approximate Value: Up to $4,500 depending on condition
These notes are highly sought after due to their age, red seal, and the rarity indicated by the star.
2. 1976 Star Note with Low Serial Number
The 1976 $2 bill marked the reintroduction of the denomination, featuring a green Treasury seal. Star notes from this series with low serial numbers (e.g., 00000001) are particularly valuable.
- Serial Number Example: *00000001A
- Unique Feature: Star note with serial number starting with multiple zeros
- Approximate Value: Up to $20,000 for serial number 1
A serial number ‘1’ for a 1976 $2 bill would be worth $20,000 or more.
3. Solid Serial Number
Solid serial numbers consist of identical digits throughout, making them extremely rare and desirable.
- Serial Number Example: 88888888
- Unique Feature: All digits in the serial number are the same
- Approximate Value: Varies; can reach several thousand dollars
Collectors prize these notes for their uniqueness and the improbability of such a serial number occurring.
4. Ladder Serial Number
A ladder serial number displays digits in ascending or descending order, representing a sequential pattern.
- Serial Number Example: 12345678
- Unique Feature: Consecutive ascending digits
- Approximate Value: Up to $7,500
The rarity of this pattern makes these notes highly collectible and valuable.
5. 1928 Red Seal with High Serial Number
Early series $2 bills with red seals and exceptionally high serial numbers are uncommon and sought after by collectors.
- Serial Number Example: 99999999
- Unique Feature: Serial number with all nines
- Approximate Value: Up to $5,000
The combination of the red seal and the high serial number enhances the note’s rarity and value.
6. Binary Serial Number
Binary serial numbers consist of only two different digits in any combination, such as 0 and 1.
- Serial Number Example: 01010101
- Unique Feature: Serial number composed of two alternating digits
- Approximate Value: Varies; can be worth several hundred to a few thousand dollars
The simplicity and rarity of binary numbers make these notes appealing to niche collectors.
7. Star Note with Repeated Serial Number
Star notes featuring a serial number where a specific digit repeats multiple times are rare finds.
- Serial Number Example: *77777777A
- Unique Feature: Star note with repeating digits
- Approximate Value: Up to $3,000
The combination of the star designation and the repeating serial number significantly increases the note’s desirability.
8. 1976 Bicentennial First Day Issue with Unique Serial Number
The 1976 $2 bill was issued during the U.S. Bicentennial. Notes stamped on the first day of issue and bearing unique serial numbers are particularly valuable.
- Serial Number Example: *00000176A
- Unique Feature: Star note with serial number corresponding to the year 1976
- Approximate Value: Up to $2,500
These notes are prized for their historical significance and unique serial number correlation.
| $2 Bill Type | Serial Number Example | Unique Feature | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1928B Red Seal Star Note | *00123456B | Star symbol before serial number | Up to $4,500 |
| 1976 Star Note with Low Serial Number | *00000001A | Star note with serial number starting with multiple zeros | Up to $20,000 |
| Solid Serial Number | 88888888 | All digits in serial number are the same | Varies; can reach several thousand dollars |
| Ladder Serial Number | 12345678 | Consecutive ascending digits | Up to $7,500 |
| 1928 Red Seal with High Serial Number | 99999999 | Serial number with all nines | Up to $5,000 |
| Binary Serial Number | 01010101 | Serial number composed of two alternating digits | Several hundred to a few thousand dollars |
| Star Note with Repeated Serial Number | *77777777A | Star note with repeating digits | Up to $3,000 |
| 1976 Bicentennial First Day Issue | *00000176A | Star note with serial number matching the year 1976 | Up to $2,500 |
The $2 bill may be one of the most overlooked denominations in U.S. currency, but rare serial numbers can make some of these bills highly valuable.
From star notes and ladder sequences to solid and binary numbers, collectors are always looking for unique variations. If you happen to have a rare old $2 bill, checking the serial number could reveal an unexpected treasure!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I know if my $2 bill is valuable?
The value of a $2 bill depends on its year, serial number, condition, and rarity. Unique serial numbers like solid, ladder, or star notes often have higher collector demand.
2. Are $2 bills still in circulation?
Yes, $2 bills are still in circulation and printed by the U.S. Treasury. However, they are less commonly seen in everyday transactions, making them appear rarer than they are.
3. Where can I sell my rare $2 bill?
You can sell valuable $2 bills through coin and currency dealers, online auction sites, or numismatic shows. Ensure authentication if your bill has an extremely rare serial number.
4. What is the most valuable $2 bill ever sold?
Some low serial number 1976 $2 bills and 1928B Red Seal Star Notes have sold for over $20,000 at auction. Bills in uncirculated condition with special serial numbers tend to fetch the highest prices.
5. What does a star (*) in a serial number mean?
A star note replaces a defective or misprinted bill. Since they are printed in limited quantities, they are more collectible and often more valuable than regular notes.