1. 1890 $2 Treasury Note – “The Ornate Scroll”
One of the most iconic and highly collectible $2 bills is the 1890 Treasury Note, often referred to as the “Ornate Scroll” due to its elaborate and intricate reverse design. These notes were part of the “Coin Notes” series, used to purchase silver bullion from the government.
The front of the bill features a portrait of General James B. McPherson, a Civil War hero. What makes this note particularly valuable is its scarcity and historic context. In high grades, uncirculated versions of this note can fetch over $10,000 at auction.
Even those in moderately circulated condition may be worth several thousand dollars, depending on specific qualities like serial numbers and seals. Collectors prize it for its beauty, detail, and the limited number still in existence.
2. 1928 $2 Legal Tender Note – First Modern Red Seal
The 1928 $2 bill marked the first modern small-sized note and introduced the red seal and serial number ink that would become a hallmark of $2 bills for decades. This bill features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front and his home, Monticello, on the back.
Although millions were printed, those with low serial numbers, star notes, or in pristine uncirculated condition can command prices in the range of $100 to $1,000 or more. Star notes (designated by a star next to the serial number) are particularly sought after.
Additionally, bills from certain Federal Reserve districts can hold higher value due to lower print runs. The 1928 series is the earliest of the red seal small notes, making it a key piece for any collector.
3. 1953 & 1963 Red Seal $2 Bills – Common but Collectible
Although not as rare as others on this list, the red seal $2 bills from 1953 and 1963 are still collectible, especially in uncirculated condition or with unusual serial numbers. These bills were printed in large quantities but have grown in collector value as fewer pristine examples remain in circulation.
Their value typically ranges from $5 to $50, but bills with fancy serial numbers, misprints, or star notes can be worth more. Collectors are especially drawn to patterns such as repeating digits (e.g., 22222222), ladders (12345678), or palindrome numbers (e.g., 1234321). If you have a crisp 1953 or 1963 note with any of these features, it may be worth significantly more than face value.
4. 1976 $2 Bicentennial Bill – Look for Errors and Star Notes
The 1976 $2 bill was reintroduced as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration, and it features a unique reverse design showing the signing of the Declaration of Independence. While these bills are still relatively common, collectors pay a premium for uncirculated examples, star notes, and especially for error notes—such as misalignments or print errors.
Error notes can range in value from $100 to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity and uniqueness of the mistake. Star notes from the 1976 series can also bring in up to $300 or more, depending on condition and rarity. These bills are often found in commemorative folders, which also adds a bit of collector value.
5. 1995 & 2003 $2 Bills – Low Print Runs
Though more modern, the $2 bills from the 1995 and 2003 series can be surprisingly valuable due to low production numbers for certain Federal Reserve districts. The 1995 series, in particular, had a very small run from the Atlanta (F) district.
If you have a 1995 or 2003 $2 bill, check the Federal Reserve letter and serial number—those from scarce districts or those marked with a star are of greater interest to collectors. These notes in high-grade condition can be valued anywhere from $20 to $500, depending on rarity. As fewer people saved these at the time of issue, pristine examples are increasingly rare and collectible today.
6. 2003A $2 Bill – The Minneapolis Star Note Rarity
One of the standout modern rarities is the 2003A $2 bill printed for the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank. Specifically, the star notes from this series are extremely rare, with estimates of only less than 10,000 printed. This has driven their value significantly higher than other modern $2 bills.
A star note from the Minneapolis (I) district in uncirculated condition can fetch $1,000 or more at auction or from specialized collectors. The scarcity of this particular note and its popularity among modern currency collectors make it one of the most valuable $2 bills in recent history. Always check the district letter and look for a star at the end of the serial number.
7. Fancy Serial Number $2 Bills – Patterns That Pay
Beyond print year or series, the serial number on a $2 bill can dramatically increase its value. Bills with “fancy serial numbers”—like radar notes (same forward and backward), repeaters, solids (e.g., 22222222), binaries (just two digits), or low numbers (like 00000001)—are highly sought after.
A $2 bill with a fancy serial number in crisp, uncirculated condition could be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the exact pattern. For example, a $2 bill with the serial number 00000001 has been known to sell for over $10,000 in some cases. Collectors scan through bundles of bills looking for these hidden gems, so it pays to check your own wallet or bank withdrawals for these special finds.
FAQs
Q1: How can I tell if my $2 bill is valuable?
To determine if your $2 bill holds significant value, check for factors like the year of issue, serial number patterns, star notes, printing errors, and overall condition (especially if it’s uncirculated). Notes from limited print runs, older series (like 1890 or 1928), and those with unique features such as fancy serial numbers can be worth much more than face value. Use a magnifier to inspect for errors, and compare it with online collector databases or consult a currency expert for a precise evaluation.
Q2: What are star notes and why are they valuable?
Star notes are printed as replacements for misprinted or damaged bills and are identified by a small star symbol at the end of the serial number. Because they are issued in significantly smaller quantities than regular notes, they are considered rarer and more collectible. In certain series—like the 2003A Minneapolis star notes—these can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars, especially if they are in uncirculated condition or come from a rare Federal Reserve district.
Q3: Should I keep modern $2 bills or spend them?
While most modern $2 bills (such as those from 2013 or newer) are not highly valuable in circulation, it’s still a good idea to check the serial number and condition. If the bill has a fancy serial number, is a star note, or is in mint condition, it might be worth holding on to. Collectors are increasingly turning to modern rarities, especially as older notes become harder to find. It’s a low-risk way to potentially hold a note that could increase in value over time.
Conclusion
While the humble $2 bill might seem like pocket change to most, it can sometimes hold hidden treasure for those who know what to look for. From historic issues like the 1890 Treasury Note to modern rarities such as the 2003A Minneapolis star note, these bills are a blend of American history and monetary artistry.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about the notes in your wallet, it’s always worth taking a closer look. With the right serial number, print error, or rare series, a $2 bill could be worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. Keep your eyes open, and you might just find a valuable piece of currency hiding in plain sight.