Once considered by the superstitious as an ill omen, the much-maligned $2 bill was even rumored to bring bad luck. Today, however, it’s worth taking a closer look at this often underappreciated piece of currency, as it might just bring you a tidy sum instead of a jinx.
Hang around, and you’ll get to know how to identify if your $2 bill holds more value than just its face value.
For generations, the $2 bill has been an underdog compared to the widely circulated $1 bill. It’s common for people to think these bills are no longer in circulation or are extremely rare.
According to the Federal Reserve, in 2023, there were still about 1.6 billion $2 bills circulating, which appears small compared to 14.5 billion $1 notes and 11.2 billion $20 bills.
Despite this, $2 notes have gained a bit of appreciation over the years. Back in 2004, only 0.07 billion were in circulation, accounting for a minor portion of the $24.2 billion currency active that year.
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing shares that “throughout most of history, $2 notes haven’t been liked much—they’re often seen as awkward or even unlucky in transactions.” They reveal tales of bill handlers tearing corners off in hopes of escaping bad fortune, leading to these bills being defined as mutilated currency.
The New York Times commented on this in a 1925 article: “If you happen to be in a game of chance with a two-dollar bill in your wallet, you’d be perceived as attracting misfortune.”
The $2 bill has even been spotlighted in a documentary, “The Two Dollar Bill,” released in 2015, examining its history and the myths surrounding it.
Though not a popular choice for many, these bills hold a secret—a pretty decent value sometimes going beyond a mere two dollars.
A Peek Into History
It was way back in 1862 when the first official $2 bill came to be, showcasing the face of Alexander Hamilton, the founding U.S. Secretary of the Treasury.
Come 1869, and the note welcomed the visage of Thomas Jefferson, America’s third president—a design still cherished today.
The reverse initially displayed Monticello, Jefferson’s grand estate, but later transitioned to an engraving showing the Declaration of Independence signing—a Declaration credited to Jefferson.
Unearthing the Hidden Fortune
The tale of $2 bills isn’t just about Jefferson’s face—through the years, several modifications have graced this note, including its reverse side, photo placements and color enhancements.
Now, to judge the worth of your own $2 bill, inspect the year it was made and its seal color. For instance, immaculate, uncirculated bills from 1862 through 1896 with red, brown, or blue seals can command up to $5,000 at U.S. Currency Auctions. If a bit worn out, circulated ones from this era could still rake in as much as $1,100.
You might also discover bills with red or blue seals from 1917 to 1928 valued at anywhere between $50 to $1,000 based on their state.
An interesting bit on auction platforms notes collectors’ eagerness to pay up from factors like print technique and origin.
Additionally, some notes hold “fancy serial numbers.” Should you possess such a unique gem, your $2 bill might be worth as much as $6,000.
Own a rare $2 bill? Tell us what you think about this story, and do share it with folks around you!
