What if the $2 bill in your wallet was worth more than a luxury watch or a down payment on a car? In a remarkable twist that’s shaking up the currency collecting world, a 2017A $2 bill has been discovered with a rare serial number—and it’s now valued at over $85,000.
This surprising find has collectors buzzing and everyday Americans double-checking their wallets. And yes—it’s still in circulation.
Why a Common $2 Bill Could Be Worth Thousands
The $2 bill has long been considered a curiosity in U.S. currency. While it’s legal tender and still printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, it rarely shows up in everyday transactions. That scarcity in circulation, combined with specific printing quirks or unusual serial numbers, can elevate the bill’s value dramatically.
In this particular case, the 2017A $2 bill gained attention due to a highly rare serial number—the kind most people overlook when receiving change at the store.
What Makes This 2017A $2 Bill Worth Over $85,000?
According to experts, the key factor is the serial number. Collectors pay top dollar for notes with special serial number patterns. Here are a few types that can be extremely valuable:
- Low Serial Numbers: Notes numbered below “00000100” are especially sought after.
- Repeater and Solid Numbers: Patterns like “88888888” or “12341234” stand out to collectors.
- Star Notes: Bills with a star symbol replacing a letter in the serial number are rare and valuable.
- Error Notes: Misprints, misaligned seals, or duplicate serial numbers can skyrocket a bill’s worth.
While the exact details of this specific note haven’t been fully disclosed, it’s confirmed to be a 2017A series bill discovered in regular circulation—and its unique traits made it a five-figure asset.
Found in Pocket Change? Yes, Really
What makes this story even more fascinating is how the bill was found. Reports suggest it wasn’t sitting in a vault or high-end collection—it was likely received in ordinary cash transactions, possibly from a gas station, bank, or grocery store.
This highlights an important takeaway: rare finds are still out there. Many people are unknowingly spending currency worth far more than face value.
What to Look for in Your $2 Bills
If you’ve got a stash of $2 bills or receive one in change, take a closer look. Here’s what to check for:
- Low serial numbers like “00000001” to “00000100”
- Repeating or solid digits, such as “22222222” or “12121212”
- Star notes, marked with a star beside the serial number
- Printing errors like off-center images or smudged ink
- Uncirculated condition with no folds, stains, or creases
Even one of these characteristics could mean your bill is worth far more than $2.
Why the $2 Bill Is Gaining Popularity Among Collectors
The $2 bill is increasingly attracting attention from younger collectors and numismatic enthusiasts. Its distinct design and relatively limited print batches make it appealing, and social media has played a big role in amplifying its buzz.
Despite its low usage, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing confirms that $2 bills—especially the 2013 and 2017A series—are still being produced in small numbers. This limited circulation is contributing to rising demand and long-term value.
Should You Start Saving Your $2 Bills?
Not every $2 bill will be a jackpot, but it’s worth checking. Currency experts recommend setting aside bills that have interesting serial numbers, star symbols, or appear uncirculated. Even modest errors or patterns can make your note more desirable to collectors down the line.
If you believe you’ve found something rare, the best next step is to consult a professional currency appraiser or get your bill graded through a trusted numismatic service.
Final Thought: That $2 Bill Could Be Worth a Fortune
A simple bill that most people wouldn’t give a second glance has turned into an $85,000 discovery. The 2017A $2 bill serves as a powerful reminder that rare and valuable currency isn’t always locked away—it’s sometimes still changing hands at checkout counters.
So next time you’re handed a $2 bill, pause for a moment. Check the serial number. Look for a star. Because your next piece of change could turn out to be a life-changing find.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is a 2017A $2 bill worth over $85,000?
The value comes from its rare serial number or printing error, combined with excellent condition and high collector demand.
Q2: What serial numbers make $2 bills valuable?
Look for serials like “00000001,” solid numbers (e.g., “44444444”), repeaters (e.g., “12121212”), or star notes with a star next to the serial number.
Q3: Are all $2 bills worth more than face value?
No. Most are worth exactly $2 unless they have unique features, errors, or are in mint condition.
Q4: How can I sell a valuable $2 bill?
Contact a reputable coin and currency dealer, auction house, or list on trusted numismatic marketplaces. Authentication is key.
Q5: Are $2 bills still being printed?
Yes, but in limited quantities. The most recent printings include the 2013 and 2017A series, both of which are still found in circulation.