Some 2013 $100 bills are worth way more than their face value. Collectors are paying big bucks for specific versions due to unique serial numbers or printing errors. If you have one of these bills, you might be holding a small fortune. This article explains how to spot these rare bills and what makes them special.
Why Some 2013 $100 Bills Are Valuable
The 2013 $100 bill was part of a new design with advanced security features, like a 3D security ribbon and color-shifting ink. But what makes certain bills stand out is their serial numbers or printing mistakes. Collectors love these quirks because they’re rare and make the bill unique. For example, a bill with a “star note” or a unique serial number can fetch thousands of dollars at auctions.
Star Notes: A Key Feature
Star notes are replacement bills printed when a regular bill gets damaged during production. They have a small star at the end of the serial number. In 2013, some star notes from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York became especially valuable due to low print runs. These bills can be worth $1,000 or more, depending on their condition.
| Star Note Feature | Value Range |
|---|---|
| 2013 New York Star Note (Uncirculated) | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| 2013 New York Star Note (Circulated) | $300 – $800 |
Unique Serial Numbers to Look For
Serial numbers are the green digits on the front of the bill. Some patterns make them collectible. For instance, a “solid serial number” (like 77777777) or a “ladder” (like 12345678) can be worth hundreds or even thousands. Other patterns, like repeating digits (e.g., 45454545) or low numbers (e.g., 00000001), are also in demand. Check your bill’s serial number carefully to see if it matches these patterns.
| Serial Number Type | Example | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Serial | 88888888 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Ladder Serial | 12345678 | $1,200 – $3,500 |
Printing Errors That Boost Value
Printing errors are another reason some 2013 $100 bills are prized. Mistakes like misaligned prints, extra ink, or missing features (like the security ribbon) make a bill rare. One famous error from 2013 is the “double print” bill, where parts of the design appear twice. These errors are hard to spot, so you might need a magnifying glass to check closely. Bills with errors can sell for $500 to $10,000, depending on the mistake.
How to Check Your Bill
To find out if your 2013 $100 bill is valuable, start by looking at the serial number. Check for stars, repeating digits, or ladder patterns. Next, examine the bill for printing errors, like misaligned text or extra ink. If you think you have a rare bill, take it to a currency dealer or appraiser. You can also check online auction sites to see what similar bills are selling for. Be careful not to spend a valuable bill by mistake.
What to Do If You Find a Rare Bill
If you have a rare 2013 $100 bill, don’t rush to spend it. Store it in a protective sleeve to keep it in good condition. Contact a reputable coin and currency dealer for an appraisal. You can also list it on auction sites, but research the market first to get a fair price. With some luck, your $100 bill could be worth thousands.