Still In Circulation: A 2017 $2 Note with a Rare Serial Number is Now Worth Over $85,000

2017 $2 Note with a Rare : It’s not every day that a simple $2 bill makes you rich — but that’s what’s happening with a rare version of the 2017A series $2 bill that collectors recently valued at more than $85,000. Even more surprising? It may still be floating around in wallets, cash registers or hidden in a drawer, unnoticed.

Let’s find out why this simple currency is such a collector’s favorite — and how you can check if you’re holding a major asset.

Rare Bicentennial quarter valued at $5.5 billion, still in circulation

Why is The $2 bill Already Unique?

The $2 note is often regarded as a novelty in U.S. currency. First issued in 1862, it is much less common than other denominations. The current version, which features Thomas Jefferson on the front and the signing of the Declaration of Independence on the back, was reintroduced in 1976 and has been printed sporadically since.

Most people assume that $2 notes are old or rare, so they hoard them. However, the 2017A series is relatively recent and still in circulation today — but some of them are exceptional because of one special feature: the serial number.

Why is a 2017A $2 Note Worth Over $85,000?

The basis for this huge valuation is rare and desirable serial numbers, often combined with excellent condition and low production numbers. The most valuable $2 bills from the 2017A series usually meet some of the following criteria:

low Serial Number 

• Examples like 00000001, 00000002, or 00000005 can bring massive value.

• These are typically saved by collectors or intercepted by insiders, but a few make it into general circulation.

Solid Serial Numbers

• Such as 22222222 or 99999999 — extremely rare and highly coveted.

Radar or Palindrome Numbers

• Like 12344321 or 02022020, where the numbers read the same forward and backward.

Star Notes

• Indicated by a ★ symbol at the end of the serial number, these are replacement notes and often printed in smaller quantities.

Mismatched or Error Notes

• Any misprint, misalignment, or serial number mismatch increases rarity and value.

A 2017A $2 bill with serial number 00000001 and in perfect condition recently made headlines in the numismatic community after being privately valued at over $85,000, largely because of the extremely low print run and its “first off the press” status.

How to Check If You Have a Rare $2 Bill

Grab your $2 bills and look at these areas:

• Series Year: Look for 2017A in the lower right corner under Jefferson’s portrait.

• Serial Number: Located in the upper right and lower left corners. See if it fits any of the rare types listed above.

• Star Note: Check if there’s a ★ instead of a letter at the end of the serial number.

• Condition: Crisp, uncirculated notes (no folds, marks, or wear) command the highest value.

Where Can You Sell a Rare $2 Bill?

If you think you have a valuable $2 bill:

1. Get it appraised by a professional currency dealer or grading service like PMG (Paper Money Guaranty).

2. Avoid cleaning or pressing the bill — this will reduce its value.

3. Sell through reputable channels, such as:

   • Major currency auctions

   • Numismatic shows

   • Trusted online marketplaces (like eBay, Heritage Auctions)

Why It Might Still Be in Circulation

Unlike coins, rare paper currency can slip into circulation unnoticed — especially low-denomination bills like $2 notes. Cashiers, banks, and consumers often treat them as curiosities or forget they even exist.

With millions printed, only trained collectors or lucky individuals spot the rare serial numbers. That means your next trip to the ATM or bank teller could unexpectedly pay off big.

Final Thoughts

It may seem hard to believe, but a seemingly ordinary $2 bill from the 2017A series could be worth tens of thousands of dollars if it has the right serial number and is in pristine condition. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, it’s worth checking your wallet or that old stack of bills in your sock drawer.