1928 Star Note Worth $65,000 : n a remarkable twist of fate, what seemed like a modest $2 bill tucked away in a family heirloom collection turned out to be a rare and valuable collector’s item. A woman, sorting through old belongings passed down from her grandmother, discovered that the note she nearly overlooked was actually a 1928 $2 Star Note—a highly sought-after piece worth an estimated $65,000 in the collector’s market.
What Is a Star Note?
To understand why this particular bill is so valuable, you need to know what a star note is. In U.S. currency printing, star notes are used to replace misprinted or damaged bills during the production process. Instead of reusing the original serial number, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing adds a star (*) next to the new serial number. These notes are much rarer than regular issues—especially in older series—and are therefore highly prized by collectors.
Why the 1928 Series Is Special
The 1928 series holds a special place in the world of paper currency. It was the first year that small-size U.S. notes were issued, shrinking the bill dimensions from the large “horse blanket” notes used before. The 1928 $2 bill also marked the beginning of the United States Note in small format, identified by its red seal and serial numbers.
Fewer 1928 $2 Star Notes were printed compared to standard issues, and even fewer remain in excellent condition today, making them especially valuable.
The Lucky Discovery
The woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, found the note in a small envelope labeled “Grandma’s special bills.” Upon closer inspection, she noticed the unusual red seal and the star next to the serial number. Curious, she looked it up online and quickly realized this wasn’t just an ordinary old bill.
After contacting a professional currency appraiser, she learned that her inherited note was a 1928 $2 United States Note Star Note, and in near-uncirculated condition—a rarity that significantly increased its value. Experts appraised it at approximately $65,000, based on auction records and the note’s condition.
What Makes a $2 Bill Valuable?
While most $2 bills are still only worth face value, certain features can make them far more valuable:
Year of Issue – Early series like 1928 or older are more collectible.
Star Notes – Indicate rarity due to replacement printing.
Condition – Crisp, clean, and uncirculated notes command much higher prices.
Low Serial Numbers – Serial numbers like 00000001 or repeating digits can increase value.
Unique Errors – Misprints, ink smears, or off-center printing also attract collector interest.
How to Tell If Your $2 Bill Is Valuable
Check the year – Older is often better; look for 1928 or earlier.
Look for a star – Located at the beginning or end of the serial number.
Inspect the seal – Red seals (used on United States Notes) are rarer than green ones.
Assess the condition – Mint or near-mint bills are worth significantly more.
Get it appraised – Contact a professional numismatist or paper money dealer.
The Growing Interest in Rare Currency
In recent years, interest in rare and unusual currency has surged, thanks in part to online marketplaces, social media, and televised auctions. Stories like this one fuel curiosity and highlight the unexpected treasures that can be hiding in drawers, old wallets, or forgotten safe deposit boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs…)
Q1: What is a 1928 $2 Star Note?
A: A 1928 $2 Star Note is a rare form of U.S. paper currency issued in 1928. The “star” symbol next to the serial number indicates the bill was printed to replace a damaged or misprinted one, making it much rarer than standard notes from the same series.
Q2: Why is a 1928 $2 Star Note so valuable?
A: Its value comes from a combination of factors:
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Rarity: Very few were printed.
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Age: As part of the first series of small-size U.S. notes.
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Condition: Near-uncirculated or crisp notes are worth far more.
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Historical Significance: These notes are part of early 20th-century monetary history.
Q3: What does the star next to the serial number mean?
A: The star (*) replaces the last digit of the serial number to indicate the note is a replacement for one that was damaged or misprinted during production. Star notes are produced in much smaller quantities and are considered rare.
Final Thoughts
This woman’s story is a perfect reminder that value can often lie in the overlooked and unexpected. A simple $2 bill—something many of us might ignore or spend without a second thought—turned out to be a life-changing discovery. If you’ve inherited old currency or have a stash of forgotten bills, it might be time to give them a closer look.