Star Note Value
A star (★) in the serial number marks a replacement note. Most modern star notes are worth a few dollars over face; older ones can be worth $75 to $200.
The value depends on the type of note, its age, its condition and how many stars were printed in its batch.
- Modern star, worn$6–35Folds, soft paper, normal wear
- Modern star, uncirculated$7–90Crisp, no folds, never spent
- 1928–1934 star$75–200Star (★) in the serial number
Where the star is
- Green seal notes (Federal Reserve Notes): the star replaces the last letter of the serial number, for example B 12345678 ★.
- Blue seal silver certificates and red seal United States Notes: the star comes first, for example ★ 12345678 A.
Typical star note values
| Note | Star, worn | Star, uncirculated |
|---|---|---|
| 2017A $2 | a little over face | $7–17 |
| 2013 $2 | $6–12 | $8–20 |
| 2003 $2 | $11–30 | $30–90 |
| 1976 $2 | $10–35 | $20–35 |
| 1963 $2 red seal | $20–45 | $30–45 |
| 1953 $2 red seal | $20–36 | $48–90 |
| 1957 $1 silver certificate | $7–13 | $12–30 |
| 1935 $1 silver certificate | $10–18 | $18–25 |
| 1934 $1 silver certificate | $80–190 | $300 and up (graded) |
| 1928 $1 silver certificate | $75–200 | $300 and up (graded) |
Why some stars are worth more
A star note replaces a sheet that was misprinted or damaged. Stars printed in small batches are scarcer, and collectors pay more for them. Recent $1 and $2 stars from large batches often sell for only a few dollars over face. Older stars, and stars in crisp uncirculated condition, bring the most.
Check your serial number
Type the 8 digits of the serial number. Add the letters and the star if your note has them; the checker reads the digits.
Questions
Is every star note valuable?
No. Many modern star notes are worth only a little over face value. Older stars, uncirculated stars and stars from small print batches are the valuable ones.
What does the star on a dollar bill mean?
It marks a replacement note, printed to take the place of a sheet that failed inspection.
Is old paper money still legal tender?
Yes. All U.S. paper money issued since 1861 is still legal tender at face value. Collectors usually pay more for older or crisp notes.
Where can I sell it?
For common notes, a local coin or currency dealer is quickest. eBay works for notes worth $20 or more. Send notes worth several hundred dollars to a currency auction house.
Should I get it graded?
Only if it's worth well over $100. Grading by PMG or PCGS Banknote costs tens of dollars per note plus shipping, which is more than most common notes are worth.
Values checked October 9, 2026 against recent sold listings. They are typical prices, not offers. Worn modern notes are valued at face, since that is what a bank or store gives you. How values work.