Ever stumbled upon a $1 bill with a star symbol at the end of its serial number? Don’t spend it just yet—it could be worth much more than you think! These special bills, known as star notes, are printed by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing as replacements for misprinted notes, and some of them are extremely rare and valuable to collectors.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of $1 star notes and discover which ones could earn you a nice payday.
What Are $1 Star Notes?
Star notes are unique currency notes issued to maintain accurate counts after defective bills are removed from the production line. Instead of the usual letter at the end of the serial number, these bills are marked with a star symbol (*), making them stand out to collectors. Their scarcity and historical value make them sought-after items in the currency world.
Top 5 Most Valuable $1 Star Notes
Here are five $1 star notes that stand out for their rarity, printing history, and collector appeal:
| Rank | Series Year | Federal Reserve District | Circulated Value | Uncirculated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1935A | Dallas (K) | $50 – $100 | $150 – $300 |
| 2 | 1963B | New York (B) | $30 – $60 | $100 – $200 |
| 3 | 1988A | Atlanta (A) | $25 – $50 | $75 – $150 |
| 4 | 1995 | Chicago (C) | $20 – $40 | $60 – $120 |
| 5 | 2013 | San Francisco (F) | $15 – $30 | $50 – $100 |
Why These Star Notes Are Worth So Much
1. 1935A Star Note – Dallas (K)
As one of the oldest on the list, this note had a very limited print run. A circulated one can be worth $100, but in uncirculated condition, it can fetch up to $300 or more!
2. 1963B Star Note – New York (B)
This series marked the end of silver certificates, giving it historic importance. Even circulated notes hold decent value, while uncirculated versions can sell for $200 or higher.
3. 1988A Star Note – Atlanta (A)
Though not the rarest, this note’s value comes from collector interest. Clean versions in uncirculated condition can bring in $150 or more.
4. 1995 Star Note – Chicago (C)
These notes are more common but can still surprise you. Certain printing variations or near-mint condition can push their value to over $100.
5. 2013 Star Note – San Francisco (F)
These are newer and still in circulation, but don’t dismiss them. Uncirculated versions are already selling for $100, and their value may grow over time.
What Affects a Star Note’s Value?
Several factors determine the worth of a $1 star note:
Condition: Uncirculated bills are the most valuable.
Print Quantity: Lower print runs typically mean higher rarity.
Collector Demand: Popular notes fetch better prices.
Printing Errors: Misalignments or unique features add bonus value.
How to Spot and Collect Valuable Star Notes
Here’s how to know if you’re holding onto something special:
Check the Serial Number – Look for a star symbol (*) at the end.
Identify the Series Year – Older notes tend to be more valuable.
Know Your Federal Reserve Districts – Some districts like Dallas (K) and New York (B) are associated with higher-value notes.
Preserve the Condition – Keep notes flat, clean, and away from moisture or folding to retain value.
FAQs About $1 Star Notes
Are all star notes valuable?
Not necessarily. While every star note is collectible, only the rarer ones in top condition are worth big bucks.
How can I tell if my note is rare?
Look into the series year, district, and print run. Consulting collectors’ guides or having it professionally appraised can help.
Where can I sell star notes?
Online marketplaces like eBay, local currency dealers, and coin shows are good options for selling.
Final Thoughts
Before you hand over that odd-looking $1 bill, take a second look—it might be worth more than just a buck. With collectors constantly hunting for rare star notes, even a single bill could end up being a valuable find. So, check your wallet, dig into that old stash, and who knows? You might just be sitting on a hidden treasure!
