The $2 bill is often misunderstood as a rare, discontinued item, but it’s still in circulation and continues to be printed by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing. While most $2 bills are worth their face value, some rare versions can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to collectors. This article explains which $2 bills are most valuable, how to identify them, and how to determine if you have a hidden gem in your collection.
History of the $2 Bill
The $2 bill has a long history, first issued in 1862 as a Legal Tender Note featuring a portrait of Alexander Hamilton. In 1869, the bill was redesigned to feature Thomas Jefferson, whose portrait remains today. Over time, the $2 bill has undergone several design changes:
- 1862-1869: Featured Alexander Hamilton
- 1869-1928: Large-sized bills with Thomas Jefferson
- 1928-1966: Smaller United States Notes with red seals
- 1966-1976: Not printed
- 1976-Present: Federal Reserve Notes with the Declaration of Independence on the back
The current $2 bill still features Thomas Jefferson on the front and an engraving of the “Declaration of Independence” on the back. The most recent printing is from Series 2017A, and there’s no current plan to redesign it.
The Most Valuable $2 Bills
Though many $2 bills are still in circulation, certain rare bills are worth much more to collectors. Here are some of the most valuable:
- 1890 Treasury Note (Coin Note)
- Description: Features a large brown seal
- Value Range: $2,800 – $3,800 (uncirculated)
- Why It’s Valuable: It was backed by gold or silver, making it rare and historically significant.
- 1869 “Rainbow” Note
- Description: Known for its multicolored design and red Treasury seal
- Value Range: $500 – $2,500 (depending on condition)
- Why It’s Valuable: Its vibrant design and historical significance make it a collector’s favorite.
- 1928 Red Seal Notes
- Description: The first small-sized $2 bill with a red Treasury seal
- Value Range: $5 – $175 (circulated), $1,000+ (uncirculated)
- Why It’s Valuable: It marks the transition to modern bill size and design. Star notes are particularly valuable.
- 1976 Bicentennial Notes
- Description: Released for the U.S. Bicentennial with the Declaration of Independence on the back
- Value Range: $2 – $20 (regular), Up to $900 (rare serial numbers)
- Why It’s Valuable: Special serial numbers, especially ladder notes, can increase their value.
- Error Notes
- Description: Bills with printing mistakes like double serial numbers or misaligned seals
- Value Range: $500 – $1,500 (depending on error and condition)
- Why It’s Valuable: Printing errors make these bills unique, and collectors value them for their rarity.
- Star Notes
- Description: Replacement notes with a star symbol (★) in the serial number
- Value Range: $100 – $500 (depending on year and condition)
- Why It’s Valuable: These bills are produced in smaller quantities than regular notes.
- Low Serial Number Notes
- Description: Notes with very low serial numbers (e.g., 00000001)
- Value Range: Varies widely (premium over face value)
- Why It’s Valuable: Collectors value low serial numbers for their uniqueness.
How to Identify Valuable $2 Bills
To determine if your $2 bill could be worth more than its face value, follow these tips:
- Check the Year and Series
Older bills, especially those printed before 1976, are generally more valuable. Pay attention to the year printed near Jefferson’s portrait. - Examine the Seal Color
The color of the Treasury seal gives clues about the bill’s value:- Red Seal: United States Notes (1928-1966) – more valuable
- Brown Seal: Treasury/Coin Notes (1890-1891) – very valuable
- Blue Seal: Silver Certificates (1899-1923) – highly collectible
- Green Seal: Federal Reserve Notes (1976-present) – usually face value unless special features are present
- Check the Serial Number
Look for unique serial numbers, such as:- Low Numbers: 00000001, 00000002, etc.
- Solid Numbers: All the same digit (e.g., 55555555)
- Ladder Notes: Sequential digits (e.g., 12345678)
- Radar Notes: Numbers that are the same forwards and backwards (e.g., 13299231)
- Star Notes: Have a star (★) symbol at the end
- Look for Printing Errors
Valuable errors include misaligned seals, ink smears, or inverted backs. - Assess the Condition
Bills in uncirculated condition are worth much more than those that show signs of wear. The better the condition, the higher the value.
What to Do If You Find a Valuable $2 Bill
If you think you’ve found a rare $2 bill, here’s what to do:
- Handle with Care: Use clean hands or cotton gloves, and handle the bill by its edges.
- Store Properly: Place it in an acid-free currency holder to protect it from damage.
- Research Its Value: Use currency guides or online resources to check its value.
- Get Professional Authentication: For high-value bills, consider getting them authenticated by a professional service.
- Selling Options: Consider selling through currency dealers, auctions, or online marketplaces like eBay.
