check your bill $1 Star Note Could Be Worth $45,000 – Here’s How to Spot One in Your Wallet Finding hidden treasure doesn’t always require a metal detector—sometimes, it’s sitting right in your wallet. Certain U.S. dollar bills, known as star notes, are so rare that collectors are willing to pay thousands of dollars for them. In fact, one specific $1 star note has fetched over $45,000 at auction. Knowing how to recognize one could turn your ordinary cash into a small fortune.
What Exactly Is a Star Note?
A star note is a special type of banknote printed by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing to replace damaged or misprinted bills during production. Instead of a regular letter at the end of the serial number, these replacement bills carry a small star symbol—either at the start or end of the number.
Since they are only printed in limited quantities to replace flawed notes, they are much rarer than standard bills. Their scarcity makes them highly collectible, and certain series or printing mistakes can push their value into the tens of thousands.
How to Identify a $1 Star Note check your bill
Spotting a star note is easy once you know where to look:
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Check the serial number on your bill.
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If you see a star symbol (★) before or after the number, you’ve found a star note.
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Example: B12345678★ is a star note.
Once you locate the star, the next step is determining whether your note is one of the rare and valuable ones.
The $1 Star Notes That Can Sell for $45,000+
While all star notes have some collectible value, only certain ones are worth a fortune. For example:
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2013 Series $1 star notes printed in Fort Worth, Texas have a known printing error involving overlapping serial numbers.
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These specific notes are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
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In uncirculated, pristine condition, some of these have sold for over $45,000 at auctions.
Why Condition and Serial Numbers Matter
A star note’s value depends heavily on:
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Condition – Crisp, uncirculated bills are far more valuable than worn ones.
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Serial Number Rarity – Collectors pay more for low numbers (e.g., 00000001★) or special patterns (e.g., 12344321★).
A common star note in poor condition may only fetch a few dollars above face value, but a rare one in mint condition could change your bank balance overnight.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found a valuable star note:
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Don’t spend it – keep it safe.
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Check online databases for serial number ranges and rare series lists.
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Consult a currency collector or get it professionally graded, as certification can significantly raise its selling price.
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Consider selling via auction houses, collector groups, or online marketplaces.
How Rare Are $1 Star Notes?
Explains the rarity level and why collectors are willing to pay huge sums.
Which $1 Star Note Is Worth the Most Money?
Details about the highest auction sales and record-breaking finds.
How to Check If Your $1 Star Note Is Valuable
Step-by-step guide to checking serial numbers, series, and condition.
Common vs. Rare Star Notes – What’s the Difference?
Helps readers understand which ones are ordinary and which can be worth thousands.
Do Star Notes From Other Denominations Have High Value Too?
Covers $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 star notes.
How to Preserve Your Star Note for Maximum Value
Tips on storage, handling, and keeping the bill in mint condition.
Where to Sell Rare $1 Star Notes
Best places online and offline to sell star notes for top dollar.
Star Note Serial Number Patterns That Boost Value
Details about ladder notes, repeaters, radars, solids, and low serials.
2013 Fort Worth $1 Star Note Printing Error – Why It’s So Valuable
Explains the famous printing mistake that created one of the most valuable $1 bills.
Star Note Price Guide for Beginners
Approximate value ranges for common, semi-rare, and rare notes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What is the rarest $1 star note?
A. The 2013 Fort Worth duplicate serial star notes are among the rarest, especially in uncirculated condition.
Q. Are circulated star notes worth money?
A. Yes, even used ones can be valuable if they belong to a rare series or have special serial numbers, though mint-condition notes are worth more.
Q. How can I sell a star note?
A. Auction houses, collector forums, and online marketplaces are the best options—grading your note first can help boost its price.
Q. Are star notes found only on $1 bills?
A. No. They can appear on all denominations, but $1 notes are the most common for everyday finds.
Q. Is selling a star note for more than its face value legal?
A. Absolutely. Rare currency is considered a collectible and can be sold for any price a buyer agrees to.