2017A $2 Bill : It’s not every day that a simple $2 bill could potentially make you rich — but that’s exactly what’s happening with a rare version of the 2017A series $2 bill that collectors have recently valued at over $85,000. Even more astonishing? It could still be circulating in wallets, cash registers, or stashed away in drawers completely unnoticed.
Let’s dive into what makes this unassuming piece of currency such a hot collector’s item — and how you can check if you’re holding onto a fortune.
Why the $2 Bill Is Already Unique
The $2 bill is often regarded as a novelty in American currency. First issued in 1862, it’s far less common than other denominations. The current version, featuring Thomas Jefferson on the front and the signing of the Declaration of Independence on the back, was reintroduced in 1976 and has since been printed sporadically.
Most people assume $2 bills are outdated or rare, so they tend to hoard them. However, the 2017A series is relatively recent and still found in circulation today — but a few of them are extraordinary due to one particular feature: the serial number.
What Makes the 2017A $2 Bill Worth Over $85,000?
The huge valuation comes down to rare and desirable serial numbers, often combined with pristine condition and low production numbers. The most valuable $2 bills from the 2017A series typically meet some of the following criteria:
Low Serial Numbers
Examples like 00000001, 00000002, or 00000005 can bring massive value.
These are typically saved by collectors or intercepted by insiders, but a few make it into general circulation.
Solid Serial Numbers
Such as 22222222 or 99999999 — extremely rare and highly coveted.
Radar or Palindrome Numbers
Like 12344321 or 02022020, where the numbers read the same forward and backward.
Star Notes
Indicated by a ★ symbol at the end of the serial number, these are replacement notes and often printed in smaller quantities.
Mismatched or Error Notes
Any misprint, misalignment, or serial number mismatch increases rarity and value.
A 2017A $2 bill with serial number 00000001 and in perfect condition recently made headlines in the numismatic community after being privately valued at over $85,000, largely because of the extremely low print run and its “first off the press” status.
How to Check If You Have a Rare $2 Bill
Grab your $2 bills and look at these areas:
Series Year: Look for 2017A in the lower right corner under Jefferson’s portrait.
Serial Number: Located in the upper right and lower left corners. See if it fits any of the rare types listed above.
Star Note: Check if there’s a ★ instead of a letter at the end of the serial number.
Condition: Crisp, uncirculated notes (no folds, marks, or wear) command the highest value.
Where Can You Sell a Rare $2 Bill?
If you think you have a valuable $2 bill:
Get it appraised by a professional currency dealer or grading service like PMG (Paper Money Guaranty).
Avoid cleaning or pressing the bill — this will reduce its value.
Sell through reputable channels, such as:
Major currency auctions
Numismatic shows
Trusted online marketplaces (like eBay, Heritage Auctions)
Why It Might Still Be in Circulation
Unlike coins, rare paper currency can slip into circulation unnoticed — especially low-denomination bills like $2 notes. Cashiers, banks, and consumers often treat them as curiosities or forget they even exist.
With millions printed, only trained collectors or lucky individuals spot the rare serial numbers. That means your next trip to the ATM or bank teller could unexpectedly pay off big.
Final Thoughts
It may seem hard to believe, but a seemingly ordinary $2 bill from the 2017A series could be worth tens of thousands of dollars if it has the right serial number and is in pristine condition. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, it’s worth checking your wallet or that old stack of bills in your sock drawer.
2017A $2 Bill With Rare Serial Number Now Valued at $85,000+ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs..)
1. What makes the 2017A $2 bill so valuable?
The 2017A $2 bill becomes valuable when it has a rare serial number — such as low digits, repeating patterns, palindromes, or error markings — and is in uncirculated or pristine condition. Some are also printed in very low quantities or have special “star note” replacements.
2. What is a “star note”?
A star note is a replacement bill issued when a printing error occurs. It’s marked with a ★ symbol at the end of the serial number. Star notes are usually printed in smaller batches, making them more desirable to collectors.
3. What kind of serial numbers are worth the most?
The most valuable serial numbers include:
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00000001 (first printed note)
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Solid numbers (e.g., 22222222)
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Ladders (e.g., 12345678)
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Palindromes/Radars (e.g., 01233210)
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Repeaters (e.g., 45454545)
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Low numbers (e.g., anything below 00000100)
4. How can I tell if my $2 bill is a 2017A series?
Look just below the Secretary of the Treasury’s signature on the bottom right corner of the bill’s front. You’ll see a small print that reads: “Series 2017A.”
