Could a dollar bill in your pocket be worth a fortune? A rare $1 star note, a special type of U.S. currency, has sold for over $45,000 at auctions, and some could still be in circulation in 2025! Star notes are replacement bills with a star symbol in the serial number, and certain ones are highly prized by collectors. This guide will show you how to identify a valuable $1 star note, why it’s so special, and what to do if you find one. Start checking your cash—you might have a treasure!
What Is a $1 Star Note?
Star notes are U.S. dollar bills printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to replace damaged or misprinted bills. They have a star symbol (*) at the start or end of the serial number, making them different from regular bills. The $1 star note, especially from certain years or with unique errors, is rare because fewer are printed compared to standard notes. For example, a 2013 series star note with a specific serial number error can fetch thousands.
Why Are Some $1 Star Notes So Valuable?
Certain star notes are worth big money due to:
- Rarity: Printed in small batches, some have tiny production runs, like 640,000 or fewer.
- Printing Errors: Mistakes like duplicate serial numbers or unique patterns make them collectible.
- Condition: Crisp, uncirculated bills with no folds or tears are worth more.
- Serial Numbers: Low numbers (e.g., 00000001*) or special patterns (e.g., 12344321*) increase value.
A 2013 star note from Fort Worth, Texas, with a duplicate serial number error, sold for over $45,000 due to its scarcity and collector demand.
How to Spot a Rare $1 Star Note
Here’s how to check your dollar bills for a valuable star note:
Step 1: Look for the Star Symbol
Examine the serial number, printed in green or black ink on the front of the bill. A star () at the beginning or end (e.g., B12345678 or *12345678B) marks it as a star note. Regular bills have a letter, not a star.
Step 2: Check the Series Year and Printing Location
Find the series year, usually near the portrait of George Washington. Focus on the 2013 series, especially from Fort Worth, Texas (marked “FW” on the bill). These have rare duplicate serial number errors. Also, check older series like 1969B or 1988A for other valuable star notes.
Step 3: Examine the Serial Number
Look for special serial numbers using a magnifying glass:
- Low Numbers: Serials like 00000001* or 00000100* are rare.
- Duplicate Serials: 2013B star notes with serials like B00000001*–B00250000* or B03200001*–B09600000* may have a matching pair, worth $20,000-$150,000 if paired.
- Fancy Patterns: Look for repeaters (e.g., 12344321*), radars (e.g., 12344321*), or solids (e.g., 11111111*).
Step 4: Assess the Condition
Valuable star notes are crisp, with no folds, tears, or stains. Uncirculated bills (graded MS-67 or higher) fetch the highest prices. Check for sharp edges and clear printing.
| Feature | Details | Value (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Series Year | 2013 (Fort Worth), 1969B, 1988A | $10-$150,000 |
| Serial Number | Star (*), Low, Duplicate, Fancy | $500-$150,000 (Uncirculated) |
| Error | Duplicate Serial (2013B) | $20,000-$45,000+ |
| Condition | Uncirculated (MS-67 or Higher) | Up to $150,000 |
| Printing Location | Fort Worth (FW) or Others | Varies by Rarity |
Where to Find Rare $1 Star Notes
You might find these valuable bills in:
- Wallet or Change: Check dollar bills from stores, ATMs, or vending machines.
- Bank Rolls: Buy rolls of $1 bills from banks to search through.
- Old Stashes: Look in piggy banks, old wallets, or family collections.
- Coin Shows: Visit dealers for appraisals or rare finds.
A 2013B star note with a duplicate serial was found in a cash register in 2023, later selling for thousands, showing they’re still out there.
What to Do If You Find a Rare Star Note
If you find a potential star note:
- Don’t Spend It: Keep it safe to preserve its value.
- Handle Carefully: Use gloves or a bill sleeve to avoid damage.
- Check Rarity: Use tools like MyCurrencyCollection.com to look up serial numbers and run sizes.
- Get It Graded: Send it to PMG or PCGS for authentication and grading.
- Sell Smart: Use auction houses (e.g., Heritage Auctions), eBay, or local currency dealers after grading.
Tips for Star Note Hunting in 2025
To boost your chances:
- Focus on 2013 Bills: Prioritize 2013 series with “FW” and star serials.
- Use a Magnifier: Check serial numbers for patterns or errors.
- Join Collector Groups: Forums like CoinTalk or Reddit’s r/papermoney share tips.
- Research Run Sizes: Smaller runs (under 640,000) are rarer and more valuable.
Conclusion
A $1 star note could turn your spare change into a six-figure payout! Rare versions, like the 2013B duplicate serial star note or those with fancy serial numbers, can be worth over $45,000 in 2025. Check your wallet, bank rolls, or old stashes for a star symbol and key series years like 2013, 1969B, or 1988A. Use a magnifying glass, verify rarity with online tools, and get your find graded to unlock its value. Start searching today—your next dollar bill could be a game-changer!
FAQs
What is a $1 star note?
A star note is a replacement bill with a star (*) in the serial number, printed to replace damaged or misprinted currency. They’re rarer than regular bills.
How do I spot a rare $1 star note?
Look for a star () in the serial number, check for 2013 series (Fort Worth), and examine for low, duplicate, or fancy serial numbers (e.g., 00000001 or 12344321*).
How much is a rare star note worth?
Most are worth $1-$10, but rare ones like 2013B duplicate serials or low-numbered notes can fetch $20,000-$150,000 in uncirculated condition.
Where can I find star notes?
Check wallet cash, bank rolls, old piggy banks, or coin shows. Some have been found in everyday transactions like store change.
Should I clean my star note if it looks valuable?
No, cleaning damages the bill and lowers its value. Store it in a protective sleeve and get it graded by PMG or PCGS.
