Her Inherited $2 Bill : When Emma Carter inherited a small wooden box from her late grandmother, she expected little more than a few family keepsakes and perhaps some old photographs. Tucked among the yellowed letters and trinkets, however, was something that would send a ripple through the numismatic community: a seemingly ordinary $2 bill from 1928. At first glance, it looked like any other vintage currency, but a tiny star next to the serial number told a much bigger story—one that would eventually be appraised at an astonishing $65,000.
What Makes This $2 Bill So Special?
The bill in question is a 1928 $2 Legal Tender Note, easily identified by its red seal and portrait of Thomas Jefferson. What truly elevates its value, however, is the star symbol found beside its serial number. Known as a “Star Note,” this symbol indicates that the bill was a replacement for one damaged during printing and is significantly rarer than standard notes.
In the world of currency collecting, rarity and condition are king. Star notes are already less common, but 1928 $2 Star Notes are particularly scarce due to the limited quantities printed during that era. According to experts, fewer than a few thousand are believed to exist today, and even fewer are in pristine condition.
The Role of Condition and Rarity
Emma’s inherited bill was not only rare—it was remarkably well-preserved. After consulting with a currency appraiser, she learned the note had been stored in a protective sleeve, shielding it from sunlight, moisture, and handling for nearly a century. The note graded as “Choice Uncirculated,” placing it among the top tier of surviving specimens.
That combination—an early date, the star designation, and near-mint condition—explains the staggering appraisal. “You’d be lucky to find one of these at all, let alone in this state,” said James Hollis, a rare currency expert. “This is the kind of bill that serious collectors dream of.”
A Quiet Windfall
Emma admitted she had no idea of its value until a friend, a hobbyist coin and currency collector, urged her to have the note evaluated. “I thought it might be worth a few bucks, maybe $20 if I was lucky,” she said. “When I heard $65,000, I nearly fainted.”
The story has since caught fire on social media and in collecting circles, with many calling it a dream discovery. Emma plans to keep the note for now, citing its sentimental value, but has not ruled out selling it in the future—especially if auction houses continue to express interest.
Lessons for Heirloom Hunters
Emma’s story is a reminder to never overlook the potential value of inherited items, especially old currency. Star notes, rare denominations, and early printings can all carry significant value, often far beyond face value. The key is understanding what to look for—or finding someone who does.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply cleaning out a relative’s attic, a close inspection could yield more than just nostalgia. In Emma’s case, a dusty $2 bill turned out to be a life-changing treasure.
Quick Facts About the 1928 $2 Star Note:
- Series: 1928
- Denomination: $2
- Seal Color: Red (Legal Tender Note)
- Identifier: Star next to the serial number
- Condition: Grading plays a major role; uncirculated notes fetch the highest values
- Estimated Value (Choice Uncirculated): Up to $65,000 or more
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs..)
Q1: What is a 1928 $2 Star Note?
A: A 1928 $2 Star Note is a rare version of the U.S. $2 Legal Tender Note printed in 1928. The “star” next to the serial number indicates it was printed as a replacement for a misprinted or damaged bill. These are printed in much smaller quantities, making them significantly more valuable to collectors.
Q2: Why is this particular $2 bill worth $65,000?
A: The value comes from a combination of rarity, historical significance, and condition. A 1928 $2 Star Note is already rare, but Emma’s note was also in near-perfect, uncirculated condition—making it a top-tier collector’s item.
Q3: What does the red seal mean on the bill?
A: The red seal signifies that the note is a United States Legal Tender Note, also known as a United States Note. This type of currency was issued directly by the U.S. Treasury, as opposed to being backed by the Federal Reserve.
Q4: How can I tell if I have a star note?
A: Look at the serial number on your bill. If there’s a small star (*) symbol either before or after the serial number, you have a star note. These are issued to replace misprinted bills and are usually more collectible.
If you believe you might have an old bill of value, consult a reputable currency appraiser or numismatic expert. That old envelope of “funny money” might just hold your own lucky star.