Your $2 Bill May Be Worth a Lot More Than You Think
For many Americans, the $2 bill is one of the most unusual pieces of currency still in circulation. You might have a couple tucked away in a drawer, or maybe you remember receiving one as a child and thinking it was “too special to spend.” While $2 bills are still considered legal tender, some are far more valuable than their face value — in some cases, worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to collectors.
In this article, we’ll explore why $2 bills are so unique, which ones are worth more, and how you can check if the ones in your possession could be a small fortune.
A Brief History of the $2 Bill
The first $2 bills were issued in 1862, featuring a portrait of Alexander Hamilton. Later, in 1869, Thomas Jefferson replaced Hamilton, and Jefferson’s portrait remains on the bill to this day. On the back, you’ll find the image of The Signing of the Declaration of Independence, an iconic American scene.
Despite being in circulation for over 160 years, the $2 bill has always been considered rare in everyday transactions. This is partly because fewer of them are printed compared to other denominations, and partly because many people hoard them as collectibles.
Are $2 Bills Still Being Made?
Yes! The Bureau of Engraving and Printing still produces $2 bills, but in very limited quantities. In fact, new $2 bills are printed in batches every few years, not annually like $1 or $5 bills. As of recent data, there are over 1 billion $2 bills in circulation — but most are sitting in people’s safes, albums, or forgotten storage boxes.
Year of Issue – Older bills, especially those printed before 1976, are more valuable.
Serial Numbers – Unique or “fancy” serial numbers can significantly increase value.
Printing Errors – Misprints or design flaws can turn an ordinary bill into a rare collectible.
Condition – Crisp, uncirculated bills are worth far more than worn, folded ones.
Valuable Serial Numbers to Look For
Collectors are willing to pay a premium for $2 bills with special serial numbers. Here are some examples:
Low Serial Numbers (e.g., 00000001 to 00000100)
Repeating Numbers (e.g., 45454545)
Solid Numbers (e.g., 22222222)
Radar Numbers (reads the same forward and backward, e.g., 12344321)
Birthday Notes (e.g., 07041776 for July 4, 1776)
If your bill has a unique number like these, it could fetch anywhere from $50 to $500 or more.
Key Dates That Could Make Your $2 Bill Valuable
1928 Series – Smaller-sized bills printed before the redesign; some worth $100–$500.
1953 and 1963 Red Seal Notes – Highly collectible, often selling for $20–$200 depending on condition.
1976 Bicentennial Issue – Some with post office stamps and first-day issues can bring in $20–$80.
How to Check the Value of Your $2 Bill
Identify the Series Year – This is printed on the front of the bill near the portrait.
Examine the Seal Color – Red seals are older and generally more valuable than green seals.
Check the Serial Number – Look for unusual or collectible patterns.
Inspect Condition – Mint condition bills are worth much more than those with folds or stains.
You can compare your bill to similar ones sold on auction sites like eBay or check with professional currency dealers.
Where to Sell a Valuable $2 Bill
If you believe your $2 bill is worth more than face value, you have a few options:
Online Auctions – eBay and Heritage Auctions are popular for rare currency.
Coin & Currency Shows – Meet dealers and collectors in person.
Specialty Currency Dealers – They can appraise and offer to buy your bill.
Collectors’ Groups on Social Media – Some collectors actively trade online.
Tips to Preserve Your $2 Bills
Store in a protective currency sleeve to avoid damage.
Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Avoid folding them if possible.
Handle with clean, dry hands.
The Bottom Line
While not every $2 bill is a hidden treasure, certain ones can be worth far more than their face value. If you’ve got a stash of these uncommon bills at home, it’s worth taking a closer look — you might just be holding a piece of American history that could also be a nice boost to your wallet.