In a stunning twist of monetary fate, a seemingly ordinary 2022 $5 bill has turned out to be an ultra-rare currency error worth $69,000. What makes this everyday note so valuable? It features a rare misprint known as a “ghost ink” error—a defect so subtle that most people wouldn’t notice it at first glance.
And the most incredible part? This prized bill was found in pocket change—proof that hidden treasures may still be lurking in wallets, cash registers, and gas station tills across America.
What Is a Ghost Ink Error?
A ghost ink error is a printing flaw that occurs during the high-speed production process at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. It results in a faint, “ghostly” duplicate image or text—often a partial shadow of key elements like serial numbers, seals, or portraits.
On this particular 2022 $5 bill, the ghost ink appeared as a second, translucent shadow of Abraham Lincoln’s portrait, slightly offset from the original image. Combined with light ink bleed on the left-side serial number and seal, the bill stood out as a textbook example of a high-grade printing anomaly.
How the Bill Was Discovered
The bill was reportedly discovered by a collector in Ohio who received it as part of a grocery store cash transaction. At first, it looked normal—but upon closer inspection, the faint double image of Lincoln’s face became noticeable under bright light.
Suspecting it was more than just a smudge, the finder sent the bill to PCGS Banknote, where it was professionally authenticated and graded as “Extremely Fine with Ghost Ink Error.” Shortly after grading, the bill went up for auction—fetching $69,000 from a private collector who specializes in modern U.S. currency misprints.
Why This Error Is So Valuable
Several factors contributed to the high value of this particular bill:
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Modern Note: Error notes from recent years are extremely rare due to improved quality control. A 2022 misprint is almost unheard of.
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Striking Ghost Ink Pattern: The double image was unusually clear and well-defined—making it a prime specimen.
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High Demand, Low Supply: The currency error community is growing fast, and collectors are eager to snap up newly discovered anomalies.
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Circulation Discovery: The fact that it came from circulation rather than a printing facility or uncut sheet makes the find even more remarkable.
What To Look For on Your $5 Bills
If you’re curious whether you’ve got a potential jackpot in your pocket, here’s what to look for:
1. Faint or Shadowy Images
Look for light or duplicated images—especially of Lincoln’s face, serial numbers, or seals.
2. Off-Color Inking
Ghost ink errors often appear slightly faded or misaligned. If something looks “off,” trust your instincts.
3. Ink Bleeds or Smudges
Misaligned printing can leave shadows or blurry patches where it shouldn’t be.
4. Misplaced Seals or Serial Numbers
Ghost errors can sometimes affect positioning—making features appear slightly off-center or duplicated.
What To Do If You Find One
If you believe you’ve found a $5 bill—or any denomination—with a ghost ink or similar printing error:
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Handle it with care – Place it in a protective sleeve to avoid damage.
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Get it authenticated – Submit it to PCGS Banknote or PMG for grading.
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Consult experts – Join online forums or talk to currency dealers who specialize in error notes.
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Consider auction – High-grade error notes often do best at major auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers.
Final Thoughts: A $5 Bill That Changed Everything
The discovery of a 2022 $5 bill with a ghost ink error proves that valuable collectibles don’t always come with age. Sometimes, the most extraordinary finds are sitting quietly in your pocket or tucked away in a cash drawer.
So next time you receive change, pause before folding that fiver—it might just be worth far more than five dollars.
Pro Tip: Carry a small magnifying glass or loupe in your wallet or car. Spotting subtle ghost ink patterns is easier with a bit of magnification—and it could lead to your next big find.