Are 2013 2 Dollar Bills Worth Anything?

The $2 bill is often perceived as uncommon, leading many to wonder if it holds value beyond its face amount. This perception of rarity, however, does not always align with the actual supply of $2 bills in circulation.

Value of 2013 Two Dollar Bills

A 2013 two-dollar bill typically holds its face value of $2. Millions were printed, so they are not inherently rare, even if less frequently seen in daily transactions. Uncirculated 2013 $2 bills, which are pristine and free of folds, can sell for a small premium. Star notes, which are replacement bills printed by the United States Federal Reserve when an error occurs during the initial printing process, can be more valuable. For instance, a 2013 $2 star note from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta could be worth around $45 in uncirculated condition, while those from New York or San Francisco might fetch around $20.

Factors Affecting a Two Dollar Bill’s Value

Several characteristics can increase a two-dollar bill’s value beyond its face amount.

Condition

The physical condition of the bill is important; uncirculated notes, which are pristine with no folds, tears, or signs of wear, are far more valuable than circulated ones.

Serial Numbers

The serial number on a $2 bill can also indicate increased value. Low serial numbers are highly sought after by collectors. Fancy serial numbers, including solid numbers, ladder numbers, repeater numbers, and radar numbers, are also prized. Star notes, identified by a star symbol at the end of the serial number, are replacement notes printed due to errors in the original print run and are generally more valuable.

Printing Errors

Rare printing errors can dramatically increase a bill’s value. These errors include misaligned cuts, ink smears, missing prints, or mismatched serial numbers. Such unique flaws make these bills highly collectible.

Older Series

Older series of $2 bills are generally more valuable due to their historical significance and scarcity. Bills from series such as 1862, 1869, 1875, 1880, 1890, 1891, 1896, 1899, 1917, 1918, 1928, 1953, and 1963 often fetch higher prices, especially if they are in excellent condition. For instance, an uncirculated 1928 red seal $2 bill could be worth over $1,000.

Where to Get a Bill Appraised

If you believe you possess a valuable $2 bill, consulting a reputable numismatic dealer is a practical first step. Many coin and currency dealers offer appraisal services, sometimes providing a preliminary estimate at no charge.

For notes suspected to be of high value, professional currency grading services offer authentication and grading. Organizations like Paper Money Guaranty (PMG) and Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS Currency) are widely recognized. These services inspect and assign a grade to the bill, which impacts its market value. Fees for professional grading can vary, typically ranging from about $20 to over $300 per note.

Online numismatic communities and forums can provide preliminary information from experienced collectors. However, these platforms should not be relied upon for definitive appraisals. Local coin and currency shows also offer opportunities to connect with experts who may provide informal valuations.