2017A $2 Bill With Rare Serial Number: Currency collectors are always on the lookout for hidden treasures — rare coins, unique printing errors, or bills with special serial numbers. One such surprising gem is the 2017A $2 bill, which, under the right conditions, has been valued at over $85,000 by collectors. What makes this modest-looking piece of currency so special? Let’s break down the story behind this eye-popping valuation.
Why the $2 Bill Is Already Unique
Before diving into what makes this specific bill so valuable, it’s important to understand the rarity of the $2 bill itself. Introduced in 1862 and reissued in its modern form in 1976, the $2 bill has always been an oddity. While still produced by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), it is rarely seen in daily use.
In fact, many people mistakenly believe $2 bills are no longer in circulation. However, they are legal tender and still printed in limited quantities. Because of their unusual denomination and low printing numbers, $2 bills are already interesting to collectors.
The 2017A Series – What Makes It Special?
The 2017A series $2 bill became especially interesting to collectors when a specific error in serial numbering was discovered. In 2022, a pair of $2 bills surfaced — both with identical serial numbers: B00000001★. These were star notes, which are replacement bills printed when an original bill is damaged or destroyed during production.
Normally, star notes are uniquely numbered. The appearance of two identically numbered star notes suggested a serious error in the BEP’s printing process. This kind of mistake is rare — extremely rare. Once collectors verified the error, interest in these bills skyrocketed.
The $85,000 Bill
Out of the entire 2017A batch, one bill stood out: a $2 star note with a rare serial number combination, specifically one of the duplicate B00000001★ bills. According to numismatic sources and auction listings, this bill is now valued at over $85,000, depending on its condition and provenance.
Collectors are fascinated by:
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The low serial number (00000001)
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The presence of a star, indicating it’s a replacement note
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The confirmed printing error
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Its existence in circulation, making it a rare find in everyday wallets
How Rare Are These Bills?
There are only a few known examples of this printing error, and many experts believe there could be more hiding in plain sight. The BEP printed millions of 2017A $2 bills, including some for the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and Atlanta, but only a tiny fraction are misprinted duplicates.
So far, fewer than 10 pairs of duplicated serial number bills from this series have been confirmed by collectors and auction houses.
Table: Key Features of the Valuable 2017A $2 Bill
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Series | 2017A |
| Denomination | $2 |
| Star Note | Yes (★ next to serial number) |
| Serial Number Example | B00000001★ |
| Known Printing Error | Duplicate serial numbers |
| Estimated Value | $85,000+ |
| Circulation Status | Still legal tender; may be in circulation |
| Issuing Federal Banks | New York (B), Atlanta (F), and others |
How to Check Your $2 Bills
If you have a $2 bill lying around, it may be worth giving it a closer look. Here’s what to do:
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Check the Series Year – Look for “2017A” near the portrait.
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Look for a Star – Star notes are replacement bills and appear with a ★ at the end of the serial number.
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Examine the Serial Number – Low numbers (like 00000001) or any odd patterns (e.g., palindromes, repeaters) can be valuable.
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Check Online – Websites like MyCurrencyCollection.com or auctions on Heritage Auctions may have info on rare finds.
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Get a Professional Appraisal – If you suspect you have a rare bill, a numismatic expert can confirm its value.
FAQs
Q1: Are all 2017A $2 bills worth thousands?
No. Only those with specific serial numbers, star notes, or known printing errors have significantly increased value.
Q2: What is a “star note”?
A star note is a replacement bill issued when an original bill is damaged during printing. It has a ★ at the end of its serial number.
Q3: How can I sell a rare $2 bill?
You can list it on reputable auction sites like Heritage Auctions or contact a certified currency dealer.
Q4: Can I still spend a $2 bill?
Yes. All $2 bills are legal tender, though collectors recommend holding onto older or rarer ones.
Q5: Is there a chance I have one of these rare bills?
It’s possible, especially if you saved $2 bills from banks or change. Check the serial numbers carefully!
Final Thought
The 2017A $2 bill reminds us that hidden treasures can still be found in our wallets, change jars, or tucked away in drawers. While the average $2 bill is only worth its face value, specific notes — especially those with rare serial numbers or star designations — can be worth thousands. For collectors and everyday people alike, it’s a good reason to take a closer look at the money we so often overlook. That “ordinary” $2 bill might just be your ticket to an $85,000 payday.