A Hidden Treasure in Your Wallet
A $2 bill might seem like just spare change, but some from the 2017A series are worth a fortune. Recent reports show one of these bills, with a rare serial number, sold for over $75,000 at auction. These bills, featuring Thomas Jefferson on the front and the signing of the Declaration of Independence on the back, are still legal tender and floating around in circulation. Most are worth only their face value of $2, but certain ones with unique serial numbers or printing mistakes are grabbing the attention of collectors across the country. Could you have one tucked away in your pocket or a drawer at home?
What Makes These Bills So Special?
The value of a 2017A $2 bill often comes down to its serial number, printed on the front. Collectors are crazy about “fancy” serial numbers, like repeaters (where digits repeat, like 34343434) or ladders (where numbers go in order, like 12345678). Some bills also have printing errors, such as misaligned text or ink smudges, which make them even rarer. The 2017A series, printed during Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin’s term, had a smaller print run than other bills, making it more appealing to collectors. A bill in near-mint condition, graded by experts like PMG or PCGS, can be worth thousands.
| Fancy Serial Number Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Repeater | 34343434 |
| Ladder | 12345678 |
A Lucky Find Sparks Excitement
The buzz around these valuable $2 bills started when a casual collector found one in their change at a convenience store in late 2024. The bill had a repeater serial number, 29292929, and was later valued at $27,500 after experts confirmed its rarity. Another 2017A bill with a unique pattern reportedly sold for $75,000 at a recent auction. These stories have collectors and everyday people alike checking their cash for hidden treasures. Since $2 bills are not used often, they’re perfect for rare serial numbers to stand out, especially from a limited series like 2017A.
How to Spot a Valuable Bill
If you want to hunt for a rare 2017A $2 bill, start by looking through your wallet or spare change. You can also ask banks for rolls of $2 bills, as they’re less common but still available. Use a magnifying glass to check the serial number for patterns like repeaters or ladders. Look for printing errors, too, like uneven text or ink mistakes. Joining a currency collecting club or visiting a coin shop can help you learn more about spotting valuable bills. If you think you’ve found a rare one, get it checked by a professional grading service to confirm its value.
| Where to Look | Tips |
|---|---|
| Wallet/Change | Check serial numbers |
| Bank Rolls | Ask for $2 bill rolls |
Why the 2017A Series Stands Out
The $2 bill itself is already a bit of a novelty. It’s legal tender but not printed in large quantities, so it’s not something you see every day. The 2017A series is even more special because of its limited run and the chance for rare features. When a bill has a unique serial number and is in great condition, its value can skyrocket. All U.S. currency issued since 1861 is still valid, so even a valuable 2017A $2 bill could be spent for just $2 if you don’t know its worth. Stories of these finds are inspiring people to take a closer look at their cash.
Start Your Treasure Hunt Today
The excitement around the 2017A $2 bill shows how a small piece of currency can turn into a big payday. Whether you’re a collector or just someone with a few $2 bills lying around, now’s the time to check for those rare serial numbers or errors. With values reaching $75,000 or more, a quick look could be worth your while. So, grab a magnifying glass, check your wallet, and maybe visit your local bank. You never know, you might be holding a small fortune without even realizing it.