Can You Still Get Two-Dollar Bills?
Uncover the facts about two-dollar bills: their availability, how to obtain them, and what truly determines their value.
The two-dollar bill, featuring a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on its front and an engraving of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on its back, is a recognized denomination of United States currency. It is legal tender, holding the same transactional power as any other U.S. banknote. Despite its less frequent appearance in daily commerce, its validity and official status remain unchanged.
Current Status and Availability
The U.S. Treasury continues to print two-dollar bills, ensuring their ongoing availability as legal tender. While less commonly encountered in everyday transactions compared to one-dollar bills or higher denominations, they have not been discontinued or become rare. As of December 2023, over $3.2 billion worth of two-dollar bills were in circulation, a figure that has steadily increased over the past two decades. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing produced approximately 128 million new two-dollar bills in fiscal year 2023 alone. This consistent production confirms their status as an active part of the nation’s currency.
Acquiring Two-Dollar Bills
Individuals seeking two-dollar bills can typically obtain them from commercial banks and credit unions. While a specific branch may not always have a large quantity readily on hand, they can often fulfill requests by ordering them from their Federal Reserve Bank. Banks can provide these bills at face value, and they are commonly available in “straps” containing 100 bills, totaling $200. If a local branch does not have them immediately, customers can request an order, which might take a few days to arrive. Going through a bank or credit union is generally the most straightforward and cost-effective method, compared to novelty shops or currency exchanges.
Understanding Their Collectible Value
Most two-dollar bills currently in circulation are worth only their face value, though certain factors can increase a bill’s value to collectors. The condition of the bill is important, with uncirculated notes being more valuable than those that have been used. Older two-dollar bills, particularly those printed before 1976, often command higher prices, especially if they feature a red seal. Bills with unique characteristics such as low or repeating serial numbers, or a star symbol (indicating a replacement note), are also sought after. For instance, some uncirculated two-dollar bills from before 1913 can be worth $500 or more, and an uncirculated 1890 Treasury Note can fetch $4,500 or more.