Can I Order $2 Bills From My Bank?
Find out how to get $2 bills from your bank. Understand the process and manage expectations for obtaining this unique denomination.
The $2 bill, featuring a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front and an engraving of the Declaration of Independence on the back, is a unique piece of United States currency. While less commonly seen in daily transactions, it remains legal tender. Many people are curious about how to obtain these bills from their local bank.
How to Order $2 Bills from Your Bank
Most bank branches do not keep large quantities of $2 bills readily available. They are not frequently used in typical cash transactions, leading banks to maintain smaller inventories. To acquire $2 bills, customers generally need to place an advance order with their bank.
Contact your bank directly, either by visiting a branch, calling, or inquiring through their online banking portal. State the exact quantity of $2 bills you wish to receive. Banks procure these bills from the Federal Reserve, which requires lead time.
The waiting period for an order can range from a few business days to about a week, as the bank awaits its next currency shipment. Some banks may have minimum order requirements, often receiving $2 bills in “straps” of 100 bills, totaling $200. Ordering in larger increments often streamlines the process. You will need to be an account holder with the bank to place such an order.
Understanding Availability and Denomination Specifics
The primary reason $2 bills are not widely available at most bank teller windows is their infrequent use in everyday commerce. Businesses often do not have designated slots for $2 bills in their cash registers, meaning any received are usually sent back to the bank rather than being recirculated as change. This low demand means banks do not routinely stock them in large volumes.
Banks order $2 bills from the Federal Reserve on an as-needed basis, which explains the lead time for customer requests. Despite common misconceptions, $2 bills are neither rare nor inherently valuable as collectibles; millions are in circulation and continue to be printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. While some older series or bills with unique features like specific serial numbers or uncirculated condition can hold collector value, most $2 bills are simply worth their face value.
The $2 bill remains valid for any transaction where currency is accepted. Customers can request new or crisp bills when placing an order, though fulfillment depends on the supply the bank receives from the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve prioritizes filling bank orders with “fit notes,” which are suitable for circulation.