Currency errors have fascinated collectors and investors for years. These misprinted bills and coins, often worth significantly more than their face value, can be hidden treasures.
From minor printing mistakes to major anomalies, here’s a list of some of the most valuable U.S. currency errors that could make you a fortune.
Inverted Third Printing Errors
One of the most famous and sought-after errors, the inverted third printing, occurs when the front of a bill is printed upside-down.
This error often appears on older U.S. currency, such as the $20 or $50 bill, where the treasury seal and serial number are mistakenly printed in reverse.
Bills with inverted third printing are rare, with some valued over $35,000 due to their scarcity and appeal among collectors.
Double Denomination Errors
Double denomination errors happen when two different denominations appear on one bill. For example, a bill might have the front of a $10 bill and the back of a $5 bill.
These rare anomalies typically fetch high prices on the collector’s market due to their uniqueness and rarity. Such bills can reach values upward of $100,000 or more, especially in well-preserved conditions.
Misaligned Overprint Errors
Misaligned overprint errors are recognizable by their off-center seals and serial numbers. This type of error can occur on various denominations and is caused by misaligned printing plates during the final printing phase.
Misaligned overprint bills are valued based on the severity of the misalignment and the condition of the bill, with many reaching $15,000 to $30,000 at auction.
Cutting Errors
In some cases, currency sheets are improperly cut, resulting in notes with missing parts or additional margins. Known as cutting errors, these bills can be highly valuable.
Errors with a larger, off-centered white margin or extra pieces of adjoining notes can fetch $5,000 to $10,000 depending on the denomination and overall appeal. High-grade examples attract even more attention from collectors.
Star Note Errors
Star notes replace bills that were destroyed during production due to errors, marked by a star symbol beside the serial number. Occasionally, an error occurs on these replacement notes themselves, making them doubly rare.
These error star notes, particularly in older series or high denominations, are worth thousands of dollars each, especially in uncirculated conditions.
Foldover Errors
Foldover errors happen when a portion of the bill is folded during printing, causing part of the design to be printed on the wrong section of the bill.
These errors often display a unique look, making them appealing to collectors. Foldover errors on higher denomination bills are extremely rare and can be valued around $20,000 or more based on severity and condition.
Mismatched Serial Numbers
Mismatched serial numbers occur when the serial numbers on a single bill don’t match each other due to a printing glitch. This error is highly unusual and highly prized among collectors.
For instance, a mismatched serial number error on a $100 bill has been known to sell for up to $100,000, depending on the year and condition of the bill.
| Error Type | Description | Estimated Value Range | Common Denomination | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inverted Third Printing | Upside-down printing of seals/serial numbers | $35,000+ | $20, $50 | Very Rare |
| Double Denomination | Two different denominations on one bill | $100,000+ | $5, $10 | Extremely Rare |
| Misaligned Overprint | Off-center seals and serial numbers | $15,000 – $30,000 | Various | Rare |
| Cutting Error | Extra margins or incomplete design | $5,000 – $10,000 | Various | Rare |
| Star Note Errors | Replacement notes with additional errors | $1,000 – $5,000+ | Various | Very Rare |
| Foldover Error | Part of bill design misprinted due to fold | $20,000+ | $50, $100 | Rare |
| Mismatched Serial Numbers | Serial numbers don’t match | Up to $100,000 | $100 | Extremely Rare |
Currency errors are among the most intriguing finds in numismatics. Each type of error has unique characteristics and values that make it a collector’s prize. As more people become aware of these potential windfalls, the demand and prices for rare U.S. currency errors continue to rise.
FAQs
What makes currency errors valuable?
Currency errors are valuable due to their rarity and unique printing mistakes, making them highly desirable to collectors.
How can I identify a double denomination error?
Double denomination errors are easy to spot as they have different denominations on each side of the bill.
Are misaligned overprint errors common?
No, misaligned overprint errors are relatively rare, especially in higher denominations, which makes them valuable.
Can I find currency errors in circulation?
Yes, though it’s rare, currency errors can still be found in circulation, especially minor errors like star notes or slight misalignments.
Where can I sell a rare currency error?
Rare currency errors can be sold at auction houses, online marketplaces, and through currency dealers specializing in collectible bills.