This Common-Looking 2013 $100 Bill Might Be a Rarity — How to Spot the Valuable Ones: Most people handle $100 bills without giving them a second thought. However, certain 2013 series $100 bills have become highly sought after by collectors due to rare misprints, serial number anomalies, or other unique features. What looks like an ordinary note in your wallet could actually be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the collector’s market.
What Makes the 2013 $100 Bill So Special?
The 2013 series $100 bill introduced new security features like the blue 3D security ribbon and the color-shifting bell in the inkwell. While these updates were meant to prevent counterfeiting, they also led to a few production errors. Notes with printing mistakes, mismatched serial numbers, or unique design flaws are now classified as rare and valuable.
Rare Printing Errors That Increase Value
Some of the most valuable 2013 $100 bills feature printing errors such as ink smears, double printing, or misaligned security threads. These errors often occur during mass production and go unnoticed until they reach circulation. Collectors consider these flaws highly desirable because they are rare and unintentional.
The Importance of Serial Numbers
Serial numbers play a crucial role in determining the value of a bill. Collectors prize certain serial number patterns like low numbers (00000001), repeating sequences (like 12344321), or “star notes” which are replacement notes marked with a star (*) at the end of the serial number. If your 2013 $100 bill has one of these patterns, it might be far more valuable than its face value.
How to Check if Your Bill Is Rare
To determine if your 2013 $100 bill is a rarity, closely examine the serial numbers, look for any printing abnormalities, and inspect the overall condition. Bills in pristine, uncirculated condition are worth more. Using a magnifying glass or UV light can help you spot subtle errors or unique features not visible to the naked eye.
Where to Sell Valuable 2013 $100 Bills
If you believe you have a rare 2013 $100 bill, you can have it appraised by a professional currency dealer or sell it through auction houses, online marketplaces like eBay, or numismatic forums. Always ensure you verify the credibility of buyers to get the best value for your collectible note.
Final Thought
The 2013 $100 bill may seem like an everyday piece of currency, but it holds the potential for hidden treasures. By carefully examining your notes for unique features or errors, you could discover a valuable rarity worth far more than its face value. Next time you come across a $100 bill, take a closer look—you might be holding a small fortune.
FAQs
Q1: How much can a rare 2013 $100 bill be worth?
Rare 2013 $100 bills with printing errors or special serial numbers can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on rarity and condition.
Q2: What are star notes on a $100 bill?
Star notes are replacement bills issued when an error is detected during production. They have a star (*) symbol at the end of the serial number and are considered more collectible.
Q3: Can I use a rare 2013 $100 bill for everyday purchases?
Yes, it still holds its face value of $100 for transactions. However, selling it to a collector could bring in much more money.
Q4: How do I know if my 2013 $100 bill is valuable?
Examine the serial number, check for printing errors, and consult a currency expert for an appraisal.
