Imagine finding a simple $2 bill in your wallet that could make you rich overnight. That’s exactly what happened to one lucky collector who discovered a 2017A $2 bill with a rare serial number and it recently sold for a jaw-dropping $90,000 at auction.
In this article, we’ll break down everything beginners need to know about these valuable $2 bills, how to check your own bills, and whether you could still find one in circulation.
Why the 2017A $2 Bill Is Worth $90,000
Not every $2 bill is valuable in fact, most are worth exactly $2. However, some rare ones can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, especially when they have special serial numbers or printing errors.
What Made This $2 Bill Special?
- Series Year: 2017A
- Condition: Uncirculated
- Serial Number Type: Solid serial number (e.g., 22222222), ladder (e.g., 12345678), or low serial (e.g., 00000005)
- Auction Price: $90,000
Collectors go crazy for fancy serial numbers like solid runs, low numbers, or “radar notes” (where the serial reads the same backward). In this case, the combination of a flawless condition and a unique serial number pushed the price to $90K!
How to Spot Rare $2 Bills in Your Wallet
If you’re a beginner, don’t worry you don’t need to be an expert to check if your $2 bill is special.
Quick Ways to Identify Rare Serial Numbers:
| Serial Number Type | What It Looks Like | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|---|
| Low Serial Numbers | 00000001 – 00000009 | Extremely rare, highly sought after |
| Solid Numbers | 11111111, 22222222 | Very scarce, instant collector item |
| Ladder Numbers | 12345678, 87654321 | Visually unique, popular among collectors |
| Radar Numbers | 12211221 | Palindromic, reads same forward and backward |
| Repeater Numbers | 45454545 | Repeating sequences, fun to collect |
Always check the serial number on your $2 bill it’s located in two places on the front, on the left and right sides.
Are 2017A $2 Bills Still in Circulation?
Yes! 2017A $2 bills are still actively circulating in the United States. Many people don’t realize their value because $2 bills are relatively uncommon in daily transactions.
In fact:
- You can request $2 bills from banks, though availability varies.
- Many $2 bills remain in circulation with standard serial numbers.
- Special serial numbers are rare, but they do occasionally slip into circulation.
That means you could potentially come across a rare $2 bill while spending cash, especially if you regularly check your change or request $2 bills from your bank.
How to Increase Your Chances of Finding a Rare $2 Bill
If you’re excited to try your luck, here are a few helpful tips for beginners:
- Visit Local Banks: Politely request $2 bills in small batches tellers often have some stashed away.
- Check for Fancy Serials: Always scan serial numbers carefully before spending or depositing your bills.
- Collect and Hold: Even common $2 bills can rise in value if kept in mint condition over the years.
- Join Collector Groups: Online forums and local coin shows can teach you spotting techniques and help you trade.
Are All 2017A $2 Bills Valuable?
No the vast majority of 2017A $2 bills are only worth face value. Only those with:
- Fancy serial numbers
- Printing errors
- Star notes (replacement bills with a star symbol)
…carry significant value.
Pro Tip: You can use online databases like PCGS Price Guide or Heritage Auctions to check recent sale prices and learn more about current market trends.
Final Thoughts: Should You Check Your $2 Bills?
Absolutely! Whether you’re a beginner collector or just curious, checking your $2 bills is quick, easy, and potentially rewarding. While it’s unlikely you’ll stumble across a $90,000 bill, many rare $2 bills can still fetch hundreds or thousands of dollars.
So next time you spot a $2 bill in your wallet or at the bank, pay close attention to that little serial number you might be holding a hidden treasure.
FAQs About Rare $2 Bills
Are $2 bills still legal tender in 2025?
Yes! All $2 bills, including older series, remain legal tender in the U.S.
How do I sell a rare $2 bill?
You can sell through auction houses, coin dealers, or online marketplaces like eBay but rare notes fetch higher prices at specialized auctions.
What’s the highest known price for a $2 bill?
Some rare $2 bills, especially with errors or unique serial numbers, have sold for over $100,000 at auctions.