Rare $2 Bill Star Note : If you think a $2 bill is only worth a trip to the vending machine, think again. A rare $2 bill star note has just sold for a staggering $33,500, sending shockwaves through the world of currency collecting — and sparking a national hunt for similar hidden treasures.
These uncommon notes, which many people dismiss as mere novelties or collector’s oddities, could actually be worth thousands. And here’s the kicker: they might be hiding in your wallet, sock drawer, or old birthday card stash right now.
What Is a Star Note?
A star note is a replacement bill printed by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing to take the place of a misprinted or damaged note. Rather than reusing the same serial number (which is not allowed), the new note features a star symbol (*) at the end of the serial number to signify it’s a replacement.
These star notes are far rarer than standard notes — especially in low print runs, unique series years, or high-condition grades — which makes them highly valuable to collectors.
Details of the $33,500 Sale
The $2 bill that just sold for $33,500 was:
- A 1976 Series $2 Federal Reserve Note
- Issued by the Boston Federal Reserve Bank
- Printed in an extremely limited run
- Marked with a star at the end of its serial number
- Graded as Gem Uncirculated by a top currency grading service
The combination of rarity, condition, and the notable star designation made this bill a must-have for serious collectors — resulting in a fierce bidding war and a final hammer price well into five figures.
What to Look for on Your $2 Bill
If you’re ready to check your own collection (or that stash of $2 bills from your grandparents), here’s what to look for:
1. Star in the Serial Number
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Appears as a small ★ after the serial number (e.g., A01234567★)
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Always located at the end, not the beginning
2. Series Year
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The most collectible $2 star notes come from:
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1928
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1953
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1963
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1976 (Bicentennial release)
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1995 and some 2003 prints
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3. Federal Reserve Bank Letter
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Each bill is issued from a specific district (A through L). Some banks had much smaller print runs, making their star notes rarer.
4. Condition
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Crisp, uncirculated bills (no folds, tears, or stains) are the most valuable.
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“Gem Uncirculated” grades bring top dollar.
5. Printing Errors
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Mismatched serial numbers, off-center printing, or inverted seals can increase a bill’s value even further.
How to Check the Value of Your $2 Star Note
Found something promising? Here’s how to verify its potential value:
- Compare it online using databases like MyCurrencyCollection.com or eBay sold listings.
- Have it professionally graded through services like PMG (Paper Money Guaranty) or PCGS Banknote.
- Consult a currency dealer or local coin/currency show for an in-person opinion.
- List it at auction — rare notes often perform best at large houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers.
Why Are Star Notes So Valuable?
In short: scarcity + demand. Most people have no idea what a star note is, and even fewer realize how rare some of them are. When you add in collectors constantly seeking the perfect specimens, prices can skyrocket — especially when only a few high-quality examples exist from a specific series or bank.
Final Thoughts: A $2 Treasure Could Be in Your Hands
The recent sale of a $2 star note for $33,500 is a powerful reminder that extraordinary value can be hidden in ordinary places — even in a small bill you might overlook.
So next time you’re handed change at the gas station, or you’re cleaning out a drawer and stumble across a few $2 bills, don’t ignore them. That little star at the end of a serial number could make you thousands of dollars richer.
Pro Tip: Ask your bank for $2 bills in full straps (100 bills). Some banks still receive them from the Federal Reserve — and you just might find your own rare star note waiting inside.