Rare $1 Star Note Discovered in Tip Jar Becomes a Collector’s Treasure

Rare $1 Star Note Discovered in Tip Jar Becomes a Collector’s Treasure

In a surprising twist of fate, a routine day at a local restaurant turned into a thrilling treasure hunt when a rare $1 Star Note was discovered in a tip jar.

This unexpected find highlights the possibility of hidden treasures lying within everyday transactions, turning a simple tip into a collector’s jackpot.

What Is a Star Note?

A Star Note is a special type of replacement currency issued by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) to replace damaged or misprinted bills.

Rather than using the original serial number, the BEP assigns a new number that ends with a star symbol (★).

This distinguishing feature makes these notes stand out and, in some cases, highly sought after by collectors.

The Tip Jar Discovery

During a typical day at a restaurant, an employee was collecting tips when a $1 bill caught their eye. The serial number ended with a star, signaling that it was a 2013 Series B Star Note. This particular note was rare due to a printing error in the 2013 Series B.

A mistake during printing resulted in two sets of notes with identical serial numbers, one batch from New York and another from Washington, D.C. Only a handful of these matching pairs exist, making them extremely valuable to collectors.

How to Identify Valuable Star Notes

To determine whether a Star Note is valuable, here are the key factors to consider:

  • Series Year: Certain years, like the 2013 Series B, are particularly valuable because of known printing errors.
  • Serial Number Range: The 2013 Series B notes with ranges such as B00000001★ – B00250000★ and B03200001★ – B09600000★ are associated with the duplication error.
  • Condition: Uncirculated or pristine notes fetch higher prices than those that are worn or damaged.
  • Rarity: The rarer a note is due to limited printing, the higher its potential value.

Noteworthy Star Notes and Their Estimated Values

Series YearFederal Reserve BankSerial Number RangeEstimated Value
2013New York (B)B00000001★ – B00250000★Up to $150,000
2013Washington, D.C. (B)B03200001★ – B09600000★Up to $150,000
2017VariousLow Serial Numbers$50 – $1,000+
2009VariousRare Print Runs$20 – $500+

Why Collectors Are Enthusiastic About Star Notes

Collectors are drawn to Star Notes because of their unique nature and the fascinating stories behind their creation.

The 2013 Series B notes, in particular, are highly desirable due to a printing error that resulted in two sets of notes with identical serial numbers from different Federal Reserve Banks.

The rarity of finding both matching notes in a set has made them highly prized within the numismatic community.

How to Check If You Have a Valuable Star Note

Follow these steps to check if your note might be a valuable Star Note:

  1. Examine the Serial Number: Look for the star symbol (★) at the end of the serial number.
  2. Identify the Series Year: The year is usually located near the portrait on the bill.
  3. Check the Federal Reserve Bank Letter: A letter, such as B for New York, indicates the issuing bank.
  4. Consult Online Databases: Websites like MyCurrencyCollection.com can help you determine the rarity and value of your note.

The discovery of a rare $1 Star Note in a restaurant tip jar serves as an exciting reminder that valuable collectibles can be found in the most unexpected places.

Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just someone curious about currency, it’s always worth inspecting the notes in your wallet—you might just stumble upon a hidden gem.

FAQs

What makes the 2013 Series B Star Notes so valuable?

The value stems from a printing error where two sets of notes with identical serial numbers were produced from different cities, making them rare and valuable.

How can I determine the value of my Star Note?

The value depends on factors like the series year, serial number range, condition, and rarity. You can use online databases or consult with currency experts for accurate assessments.

Are all Star Notes valuable?

Not all Star Notes are valuable. Only those with rare serial numbers, printing mistakes, or limited print runs hold significant value in the market.

Where can I sell a valuable Star Note?

Valuable Star Notes can be sold through online marketplaces like eBay, to currency dealers, or at auction houses that specialize in rare currency.

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