Ever dream of finding a hidden treasure? Well, you might not need a map and a shovel. The treasure could be hiding in plain sight, tucked away in your wallet! Believe it or not, some seemingly ordinary $1 bills are actually quite rare and can fetch thousands of dollars from eager collectors.
Here are three types of $1 bills that could be worth a small fortune:
1. The 2013 Series “B” Error Note:
This is perhaps the most sought-after $1 bill among collectors right now. A printing error at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing resulted in some bills from the 2013 series being printed with a “B” Federal Reserve Seal above the serial number. This error was caught, but not before some of these bills slipped into circulation.
What to look for:
- Series Date: The series date near the portrait of George Washington must read “Series 2013”.
- Federal Reserve Seal: The bill must have a “B” Federal Reserve Seal above the serial number.
- Serial Number: The serial number must end with a star (★).
If you find one of these, you could be holding a bill worth a significant amount!
2. Low Serial Number Bills:
Collectors often prize bills with very low serial numbers, especially those with the number “1”. These bills are incredibly rare because they are usually kept by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing or given to dignitaries.
What to look for:
- Low Serial Number: The lower the serial number, the more valuable the bill. A bill with the serial number “1” is considered a holy grail for many collectors.
Finding a low serial number bill, especially a “1”, is like winning the lottery for currency collectors.
3. Star Notes:
Star notes are replacement bills that are printed when a printing error occurs. They are identified by a star symbol (*) at the end of the serial number. While not all star notes are valuable, some older ones or those with unique characteristics can be quite rare.
What to look for:
- Star Symbol: Check for a star symbol (*) at the end of the serial number.
- Series Date and Condition: Older star notes in good condition are generally more valuable.
While these are just a few examples of rare $1 bills, there are many other variations and errors that can make a bill valuable. If you’re curious about a particular bill, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional currency appraiser or do some research.
So, next time you reach for a $1 bill, take a closer look. You might just be surprised at what you find!
