In the world of currency collecting, star notes are unique, replacing damaged bills that were pulled out during the printing process. These notes have a star symbol at the end of their serial number, indicating their status as replacements.
Due to their rarity, certain star notes have become highly valuable, with some worth significantly more than face value. Let’s explore nine rare star notes that could be worth a substantial amount, especially if they are well-preserved.
1. 1928 $1 Silver Certificate Star Note
This star note from 1928 holds value due to its age and the unique silver certificate designation. Silver certificates were exchangeable for silver, adding historical significance to these notes. In good condition, they can fetch impressive prices at auction.
2. 1934 $5 Silver Certificate Star Note
Issued during the Great Depression, this star note is rare and valuable due to its limited availability. Collectors prize these notes, especially in mint condition, for their historical context and unique replacement mark.
3. 1950 $10 Federal Reserve Star Note
The 1950 series is known for its scarcity, and finding a $10 star note in this series is particularly rare. These notes are valuable due to their age and limited production, with pristine examples fetching a premium.
4. 1963B $1 Barr Note Star Note
This unique star note from 1963 was part of a short-lived series printed under U.S. Treasurer Joseph W. Barr. Collectors consider these highly collectible, and those in excellent condition can be worth considerably more than face value.
5. 1981A $20 Federal Reserve Star Note
The 1981A $20 star note is popular among collectors, especially if issued from smaller Federal Reserve branches. These notes are rare, and those in top condition are highly valuable in the numismatic market.
6. 1993 $50 Federal Reserve Star Note
Due to its low print run, the 1993 $50 star note is highly sought after by collectors. Notes from certain Federal Reserve banks are especially valuable, making them a prized find.
7. 2001 $100 Federal Reserve Star Note
The 2001 $100 star note has grown in value due to its limited print. Large denomination star notes tend to be less common, and pristine examples from this series are particularly desirable.
8. 2003A $2 Federal Reserve Star Note
The $2 bill is already a unique denomination, and a star note version from the 2003A series adds an additional layer of rarity. These notes are rare and highly valued by collectors.
9. 2013 $1 Federal Reserve Star Note
Although relatively recent, the 2013 $1 star note from smaller Federal Reserve branches is highly collectible. Rare versions in excellent condition can be worth more than their face value, especially those with unique serial numbers.
| Year Issued | Type | Denomination | Key Feature | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1928 | Silver Certificate | $1 | Age, rarity | $300+ |
| 1934 | Silver Certificate | $5 | Historical value | $500+ |
| 1950 | Federal Reserve | $10 | Limited issue | $200+ |
| 1963B | Barr Note | $1 | Short-lived | $150+ |
| 1981A | Federal Reserve | $20 | Rare branches | $250+ |
| 1993 | Federal Reserve | $50 | Low print run | $600+ |
| 2001 | Federal Reserve | $100 | High denomination | $800+ |
| 2003A | Federal Reserve | $2 | Unique issue | $400+ |
| 2013 | Federal Reserve | $1 | Recent rarity | $50+ |
Star notes represent a fascinating area of currency collecting, with their rarity, unique features, and historical contexts driving their value.
For those looking to expand their collections or invest in valuable currency, these star notes offer a unique opportunity, with certain issues fetching impressive sums at auction.
As always, condition and rarity play a significant role in determining a note’s value, so collectors should prioritize well-preserved examples.
FAQs
What makes a star note valuable?
Star notes are valuable due to their rarity, especially if they have unique features like low serial numbers, high denominations, or are from limited print runs.
Are star notes still produced today?
Yes, the U.S. Treasury continues to produce star notes as replacement notes, but their value depends on factors like denomination, condition, and rarity.
How can I check the authenticity of a star note?
Authenticity can be verified through professional currency grading services like PCGS Currency or PMG, which assess and grade star notes.
Do older star notes hold more value than recent ones?
Generally, older star notes tend to be more valuable due to their age, limited availability, and historical significance, although some recent issues can be valuable too.
Where can I find rare star notes?
Rare star notes can be found through auctions, currency dealers, and sometimes through thorough searches in regular cash transactions.
