In a surprising turn of events, an old $10 Star Note tucked away in a forgotten coat pocket has recently sold for an incredible amount at auction.
Star notes are replacement banknotes printed by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) when an error occurs during regular note production.
Due to their limited circulation, they are considered highly collectible, and some rare examples can fetch astonishing prices.
The story began when a vintage store customer purchased an old coat for a mere $15. Upon checking the pockets, they discovered an old folded $10 bill.
Upon closer inspection, they noticed a small star symbol next to the serial number — a clear sign that it was a Star Note. What seemed like an ordinary find turned out to be a collector’s dream.
How Much Was the $10 Star Note Sold For?
At a leading numismatic auction event in early 2025, the discovered $10 Star Note fetched a whopping $38,400, far exceeding initial estimates.
Experts had originally valued it between $10,000 and $15,000, but the intense bidding war among serious collectors quickly drove the final price to unexpected heights.
The note’s exceptional condition, combined with its rarity and unique history, contributed significantly to its final hammer price.
What Made This $10 Star Note So Valuable?
Several factors made this particular $10 Star Note exceptionally valuable:
- Condition: The bill was graded Choice Uncirculated 64 by a leading currency grading service.
- Low Print Run: Only 128,000 of these specific Star Notes were printed, making it extremely rare.
- Year of Issue: The bill was a 1934A series, a sought-after series among collectors.
- Historical Interest: Finding a near-mint note hidden away for decades in an old garment added a remarkable story, boosting its appeal.
Collectors highly prize low-serial number Star Notes, notes from rare series, and those with unique historical provenance — and this $10 bill checked all three boxes.
Quick Overview of the $10 Star Note
Here’s a breakdown of the key details that made this particular bill so exceptional:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | $10 Star Note |
| Series Year | 1934A |
| Condition | Choice Uncirculated 64 |
| Print Run | 128,000 |
| Auction House | Heritage Auctions |
| Final Price | $38,400 |
| Discovery Location | Inside a vintage coat pocket |
Understanding Star Notes and Their Value
Star Notes are unique for collectors because they are issued as replacements for misprinted or damaged banknotes. Instead of reprinting the original serial number, the BEP issues a new note with a star at the end of the serial number.
The scarcity of Star Notes varies significantly. Some series are extremely common, while others, especially older series or those with extremely low production runs, are rare treasures.
Factors that influence the value of Star Notes:
- Print Run Size: Fewer prints mean greater rarity.
- Condition: Uncirculated notes are far more valuable.
- Series Year: Older series tend to attract higher bids.
- Unique Serial Numbers: Low or fancy numbers can increase value.
Collectors keep a sharp eye on Star Notes because even a small discovery can translate into substantial financial gains.
Could You Have a Valuable Star Note Too?
This recent sale highlights a valuable lesson: it’s worth checking old wallets, drawers, and coat pockets for hidden currency gems. You might be unknowingly carrying or storing a rare Star Note worth thousands.
To check if you have a Star Note, simply look at your bill’s serial number. If there is a small star symbol (*) at the end, you might be holding a potential jackpot. Getting it appraised by a certified numismatic expert is the best next step.
The sale of a forgotten $10 Star Note for $38,400 proves that valuable treasures can be hidden in the most unexpected places. Star Notes, especially those from older series and limited print runs, continue to captivate collectors and drive record-breaking auction prices.
Checking your old clothing, wallets, and drawers might just uncover a financial windfall — so keep an eye out. You never know when an ordinary day might turn extraordinary thanks to a little star on your currency!
FAQs
What is a Star Note?
A Star Note is a banknote printed to replace a misprinted or damaged one. It has a star symbol at the end of its serial number and is usually rarer than regular notes.
How do I know if my Star Note is valuable?
Factors like the year, print run size, overall condition, and serial number uniqueness all influence a Star Note’s value. Getting the note professionally graded is essential.
Where can I sell a rare Star Note?
Rare Star Notes can be sold through specialized numismatic auction houses, trusted currency dealers, or online platforms that deal with rare currency collectibles.