During a routine home renovation, a homeowner made an astonishing find — a rare $5 bill with a star serial number hidden behind an old wall.
What initially appeared to be a simple old bill quickly turned into a thrilling numismatic discovery. Star notes are among the most collectible pieces of paper money, and finding one in such an unexpected location is nothing short of remarkable.
What Is a Star Note?
A star note is a special replacement bill printed when a misprint or error occurs during the production of regular U.S. currency. Instead of reprinting the same serial number, the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing issues a new note with a star symbol (*) next to the serial number.
Because fewer star notes are printed compared to regular bills, they are considered rarer and more valuable — especially when found in excellent condition or with unique serial number combinations.
Factors That Make a Star Note Valuable
Not all star notes are created equal. Several key factors can drastically increase a star note’s worth:
- Low Serial Numbers:
Notes with serial numbers like 00000001* or other early sequences are highly prized. - Unique Serial Patterns:
Notes featuring repeating numbers, palindromes, or ladder sequences (like 12345678*) fetch premium prices. - Short Print Runs:
Star notes from print runs of 640,000 notes or fewer are much rarer and more sought after. - Note Condition:
A crisp, uncirculated star note is far more valuable than a worn, circulated one. - Age of the Note:
Older star notes, particularly those printed decades ago, are harder to find and can command higher prices.
Estimated Value of Star $5 Bills
Here’s a quick breakdown of how much a rare $5 bill star note can be worth based on key characteristics:
| Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Common Star Note | $5 – $20 |
| Low Serial Number | $100 – $500 |
| Unique Pattern (Repeater, Radar) | $500 – $1,000+ |
| Short Print Run Star Note | $1,000 – $2,500+ |
| Uncirculated High-Grade Star Note | $2,500 – $5,000+ |
The bill discovered behind the wall appeared to have minimal wear, which could place it in a much higher value range depending on its other features.
How to Tell If You Have a Rare Star Note
If you stumble upon a star note or suspect you might have one, here’s how to evaluate it:
1. Check for the Star Symbol
Look carefully at the end of the serial number. A genuine star note will have a clear asterisk (*) symbol, typically placed after the number sequence.
2. Examine the Serial Number Pattern
Numbers like 00000001*, 12344321*, or 77777777* are extremely rare and highly desirable among collectors.
3. Assess the Condition
Crisp, bright, unwrinkled notes are far more valuable than torn, dirty, or heavily folded ones.
4. Research the Print Run
Short-run star notes (under 640,000 printed) significantly boost a note’s rarity and value.
Why the Renovation Find Was So Special
The $5 Bill note found during the renovation had several standout features:
- It was remarkably well preserved despite years hidden behind a wall.
- The serial number indicated a limited print run.
- It had minimal folds and bright ink, suggesting it was nearly uncirculated.
- Its age added additional value, as older star notes are much harder to find in good condition.
Collectors estimate that this particular find could easily fetch between $2,000 and $3,000 at auction, depending on final authentication and grading.
The rare $5 bill with a star serial number discovered behind a wall proves that incredible treasures can be hiding in the most unexpected places.
Star notes, especially those with low serial numbers, unique patterns, or from short print runs, are highly valued by collectors and investors alike.
If you ever come across an old bill, don’t dismiss it too quickly — a simple star symbol could turn ordinary pocket change into a collectible worth thousands.
Always take a closer look; your hidden fortune might just be hiding in plain sight!
FAQs
What makes a star note different from a regular bill?
A star note replaces a bill that was misprinted or damaged during production. It carries a star (*) next to its serial number, indicating it is a rare replacement note.
How can I check the rarity of my star note?
You can determine rarity by checking the serial number pattern, the size of the print run, the age of the bill, and its physical condition.
Are old star notes always worth thousands?
Not always. While some can fetch thousands, others with common serial numbers or heavy wear may only be worth a small premium over face value.