Same Pattern Transactions
| Image | Serial Number | Sold Price | Sold Date | Denomination | Note Type | Series | Condition | Grade | Seller |
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How to Check Your Bill’s Serial Number (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Locate the Serial Number
Find the serial number on your bill. On US currency, it appears twice:
- In the upper right corner
- In the lower left corner
The serial number consists of 8 digits with a prefix letter and suffix letter.
Step 2: Enter Your Serial Number
Enter the 8-digit serial number (without the prefix and suffix letters) in our Fancy Serial Number Checker tool.
Make sure to enter all 8 digits correctly to get an accurate result.
Step 3: Review Your Results
Our checker tool will analyze your serial number and identify any matching patterns.
You’ll receive a value score from 0-100 indicating the collector interest level.
Understanding Your Score Results
Score Ranges
- 90-100: Extremely valuable
- 80-89: Very valuable – significant premium over face value
- 70-79: Moderately valuable – worth holding onto
- <70: Not valuable – recommended to spend
Examples
- 12345678 – Score: 99 (Perfect Ladder)
- 12121212 – Score: 95 (Binary Repeater)
- 88888880 – Score: 90 (Seven of a Kind)
- 12323122 – Score: 70 (Trinary)
- 43851907 – Score: 60 (Interesting, But No Pattern)
Collector’s Tip
Bills with fancy serial numbers are most valuable when in uncirculated or “gem” condition. However, even circulated bills with exceptional patterns can command significant premiums over face value.
What is a Fancy Serial Number? (Brief Explanation)
Fancy serial numbers are specific numerical patterns on US currency that are considered rare, unique, or visually appealing by collectors.
Every piece of US paper currency features an eight-digit serial number (plus prefix and suffix letters) that uniquely identifies that bill. While most serial numbers are random combinations of digits with no particular pattern, certain sequences create recognizable patterns that collectors value for their rarity and aesthetic appeal.
Why Collectors Value Fancy Serial Numbers
Currency collectors (known as “notaphilists”) value fancy serial numbers for several reasons:
- Rarity: The odds of receiving a truly exceptional pattern in circulation are extremely low
- Visual Appeal: Unique patterns are aesthetically pleasing and make for interesting display pieces
- Investment Potential: Some of the rarest patterns can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars
- Accessibility: Unlike traditional coin or currency collecting that requires historical knowledge, anyone can identify pattern serial numbers
Did You Know?
The most valuable fancy serial number ever sold was a $1 bill from 1953B with the serial number 00000001. This “ultimate low number” sold at auction for over $10,000!
Even more common patterns like solid numbers (e.g., 88888888) regularly sell for $500-$1,000 depending on condition and denomination.
Brief History and Popularity
While currency collecting has a long history dating back centuries, the specific interest in fancy serial numbers gained mainstream popularity in the 1960s and 1970s as collectors began to recognize their unique appeal. The advent of the internet in the 1990s and early 2000s dramatically expanded the hobby by connecting collectors and creating marketplaces where these special bills could be bought and sold.
Today, fancy serial number collecting remains popular because it combines the thrill of the hunt (anyone might find a valuable pattern in their wallet or cash register) with the satisfaction of owning something rare and unusual. Unlike traditional currency collecting that focuses on dates and mint marks, fancy serial numbers appeal to pattern-recognition and can be appreciated by anyone.
Collector’s Tip
Many of the most valuable fancy serial numbers were discovered in regular circulation. Always check your cash before spending it—you might have a collector’s item in your wallet right now!
Solid Patterns
Solid
Description: A solid serial number contains all identical digits (the same digit repeated eight times).
Examples: 11111111, 33333333, 88888888
Why it’s valuable: Solid numbers are among the most recognizable and desirable patterns. The odds of naturally receiving a solid serial number are roughly 1 in 100 million, making them extremely rare in circulation.
Collector notes: Solid 1s, 7s, and 8s tend to command the highest premiums, with 0s close behind. Higher denominations ($50, $100) with solid serial numbers are particularly valuable.
Collector Value
Score: 100 (Highest possible value)Market Range:
$500-$3,000+ depending on denomination and condition
“Solid serial numbers represent the ultimate prize for many collectors. Their perfect uniformity makes them instantly recognizable even to non-collectors, and their extreme rarity ensures strong demand in the marketplace.”
Multi-of-a-Kind Patterns
Multi-of-a-kind patterns feature a large number of identical digits in the serial number, but not all eight. These are highly sought after by collectors because they’re almost as rare as solids but slightly more likely to appear in circulation.
Seven of a Kind
Description: Seven identical digits out of eight in the serial number.
Examples: 77777774, 33333335
Collector Value: Score: 90
Notes: Position of the different digit matters—collectors prefer when the “odd” digit is at the end of the sequence.
Six of a Kind
Description: Six identical digits out of eight in the serial number.
Examples: 66666678, 44444412
Collector Value: Score: 85
Notes: Most valuable when the six identical digits appear consecutively rather than split up.
Why Collectors Seek These Patterns
Multi-of-a-kind patterns strike a perfect balance for many collectors. They’re still extremely rare (approximately 1 in 11 million for seven of a kind), but more attainable than perfect solid numbers. They often represent an excellent entry point for serious fancy serial number collectors.
Ladder Patterns
Ladder patterns feature sequential digits that either ascend or descend in order. These are highly prized for their visual appeal and the satisfying sequence they create.
Perfect Ladder
Description: Eight sequential digits in either ascending or descending order.
Examples:
- Ascending: 12345678
- Descending: 87654321
Why it’s valuable: Perfect ladders are almost as rare as solid serial numbers and instantly recognizable. The mathematical probability makes them extremely unlikely to occur naturally.
Collector notes: Forward (ascending) ladders typically command slightly higher premiums than backward (descending) ladders, though both are highly desirable.
Collector Value
Score: 99 (Nearly maximum value)Market Range:
$500-$2,500+ depending on denomination and condition
“Ladder serial numbers have universal appeal because they represent perfect order. Even people who aren’t collectors immediately recognize why a ladder serial number is special, which helps maintain their strong market value.”
Repeater Patterns
Repeater patterns feature sequences that repeat in interesting ways. These patterns demonstrate mathematical symmetry and are highly prized by collectors for their orderly arrangements.
Repeater
Description: Same 4 digits repeated exactly.
Example: 16821682
Collector Value: Score: 90
Notes: Basic repeaters are among the more common fancy patterns, but still rare enough to command substantial premiums.
Radar Repeater
Description: A palindromic 4-digit block repeated twice.
Example: 12211221
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: Combines two desirable patterns (radar and repeater), making it especially valuable to collectors.
Binary Repeater
Description: Two-digit pattern repeated throughout the serial number.
Example: 25522552
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: The perfect rhythm of binary repeaters makes them especially appealing visually.
Ladder Repeater
Description: Sequential pattern that repeats.
Example: 12341234
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: Combines the appeal of ladders with repeaters, creating a highly desirable pattern.
Double Binary Repeater
Description: Two identical repeating pairs.
Example: 11221122
Collector Value: Score: 96
Notes: The layered repetition creates a particularly satisfying pattern that collectors value highly.
True Binary Repeater
Description: Repeating halves using only 0s and 1s.
Example: 11101110
Collector Value: Score: 99
Notes: The combination of true binary digits (0/1) and perfect repetition makes this pattern extremely desirable.
Trinary Repeater
Description: Three-digit pattern repeated.
Example: 12312312
Collector Value: Score: 92
Notes: Less common than binary repeaters but still highly collectible.
Bookends Repeater
Description: Repeating halves with matching first and last two digits.
Example: 12121212
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: Creates a satisfying “frame” effect that appeals to collectors aesthetically.
Collector’s Insight
Repeater patterns often command higher premiums when they combine multiple pattern types. For example, a true binary repeater (combining true binary and repeater patterns) is typically more valuable than either pattern type alone.
Serial Number Position Patterns
Position patterns value bills based on where they fall in the printing sequence. These are particularly sought after by collectors because they represent significant milestones in a production run.
Super Low Serial Numbers
Description: First 10 serial numbers of a series.
Example: 00000005
Collector Value: Score: 99
Notes: Single-digit serial numbers are extremely rare and highly coveted. Number 1 bills are the most valuable in this category.
Low Serial Numbers
Description: First 1000 serial numbers of a series.
Example: 00000867
Collector Value: Score: 90
Notes: Three-digit numbers are more valuable than four-digit numbers within this category.
Super High Serial Numbers
Description: Last 10 serial numbers of a series.
Example: 99999995
Collector Value: Score: 99
Notes: Single-digit-from-maximum serial numbers are extremely rare. The final number in a series is the most valuable.
High Serial Numbers
Description: Last 1000 serial numbers of a series.
Example: 99999123
Collector Value: Score: 90
Notes: Three-digit-from-maximum numbers are more valuable than four-digit-from-maximum within this category.
Collector’s Tip
Position patterns can be difficult to identify without knowing the total print run of a series. However, numbers beginning with several 0s or ending with several 9s are always worth a closer look.
Special Number Patterns
Special number patterns include a variety of unique combinations that don’t fit neatly into other categories but are still highly prized by collectors.
Binary
Description: Only two unique digits used.
Example: 15511555
Collector Value: Score: 90
Notes: The limited digit variety creates a visually striking pattern.
True Binary
Description: Only 0 and 1 digits used.
Example: 11001010
Collector Value: Score: 98
Notes: The connection to computer binary code adds an interesting dimension that appeals to collectors.
Bookends Binary
Description: Matching first and last two digits using only two numbers.
Example: 79997779
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: Combines the appeal of bookends with the rarity of binary patterns.
Trinary
Description: Only three digit types used.
Example: 12323121
Collector Value: Score: 70
Notes: While not as rare as binary patterns, trinary patterns still demonstrate mathematical order.
Date
Description: A meaningful date sequence.
Example: 07042023 (July 4, 2023)
Collector Value: Score: 80
Notes: Historical dates and major holidays typically command higher premiums.
Bookends
Description: Matching first and last two digits.
Example: 12456712
Collector Value: Score: 70
Notes: Creates a “framing” effect that appeals to many collectors.
Near Perfect Patterns
Near perfect patterns are almost-but-not-quite versions of more valuable patterns. While not as rare as their perfect counterparts, they still command significant premiums and are much more likely to be found in circulation.
Near True Binary
Description: One digit off from a pure 0-1 sequence.
Example: 10001102
Collector Value: Score: 80
Notes: More common than true binary patterns but still quite desirable.
Near Binary Radar
Description: Almost a palindrome with two unique digits.
Example: 10100011
Collector Value: Score: 80
Notes: One digit off from a perfect binary radar but still quite collectible.
Near Radar Repeater
Description: Almost a perfect palindromic repeater.
Example: 12211223
Collector Value: Score: 80
Notes: Off by one digit from a perfect radar repeater pattern.
Near Perfect Ladder
Description: Almost ideal ascending or descending sequence.
Example: 12345687
Collector Value: Score: 85
Notes: One digit out of sequence but still visually striking.
Value Insight
Near perfect patterns typically sell for about 60-75% of what their perfect counterparts would command. They represent excellent value for collectors on a budget who still want impressive display pieces.
Radar (Palindrome) Patterns
Radar patterns, also known as palindromes, read the same forward and backward. Named after radar’s ability to read the same in both directions, these symmetrical patterns are among the most visually distinctive fancy serial numbers.
Radar
Description: Reads the same forward and backward.
Example: 15788751
Collector Value: Score: 90
Notes: The most common type of radar pattern but still quite valuable to collectors.
Palindrome Radar
Description: A palindrome with ascending/descending digit steps.
Example: 12344321
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: The sequential nature of the digits adds an additional layer of appeal.
Binary Radar
Description: A palindrome using only two distinct digits.
Example: 12211221
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: The limited digit variety combined with perfect symmetry makes this a standout pattern.
True Binary Radar
Description: Only 0s/1s, reads the same forward and backward.
Example: 11100111
Collector Value: Score: 99
Notes: Combining true binary (0s and 1s only) with radar symmetry creates one of the most sought-after patterns.
Bookends Radar
Description: Palindrome with matching first and last two digits.
Example: 11233211
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: Creates a satisfying “framed” effect within the palindrome structure.
“Radar notes have a special place in the fancy serial number collecting world. Their perfect symmetry is visually striking, and they’re often the first type of fancy serial number that new collectors learn to spot in circulation.”
Quad & Pairs Patterns
Quad and pairs patterns feature specific groupings of identical digits. These organized arrangements create visually pleasing patterns that stand out to collectors.
Quad Double
Description: Two sets of four identical digits.
Example: 11112222
Collector Value: Score: 95
Notes: The organized pairing creates a pleasing rhythm that appeals to collectors.
Four Pairs
Description: Eight digits forming four matching pairs.
Example: 11557744
Collector Value: Score: 90
Notes: The organized pairing creates a pleasing rhythm that appeals to collectors.
Binary Four Pairs
Description: Four pairs using only two unique digits.
Example: 11331111
Collector Value: Score: 94
Notes: Limited digit variety with perfect pairing adds significant appeal.
Ladder Four Pairs
Description: Four pairs in ascending or descending order.
Example: 11223344
Collector Value: Score: 94
Notes: Combines the appeal of ladders with the organization of pairs.
Bookends Four Pairs
Description: Four pairs with matching first and last two digits.
Example: 11334411
Collector Value: Score: 94
Notes: The “framing” effect adds an extra layer of pattern appeal.
Collector’s Insight
Pair patterns are more common than solids or ladders, but when they form recognizable sequences or use limited digit sets, they can be quite valuable. Collectors often appreciate the mathematical symmetry and orderly arrangement these patterns display.
Frequently Asked Questions
The value of a fancy serial number bill depends on several factors:
- Pattern type and rarity: Solid numbers and perfect ladders are typically the most valuable
- Condition: Uncirculated bills command higher premiums
- Denomination: Higher denominations ($50, $100) with fancy serials are generally worth more
- Series/year: Some collectors prefer specific series or years
While our value score gives a general indication of collector interest, actual market values can range from a small premium over face value to several thousand dollars for the rarest patterns.
There are several options for selling fancy serial number bills:
- Online marketplaces: eBay, Etsy, and specialized currency sites allow you to reach collectors directly
- Currency dealers: Professional dealers may purchase interesting notes, but typically at wholesale prices
- Currency auctions: For exceptionally valuable patterns, specialized currency auctions can maximize value
- Collector forums: Online communities like CoolSerialNumbers.com or PaperMoneyCollectors.com connect sellers with interested buyers
Before selling, research completed sales of similar patterns to set realistic price expectations.
Yes! While uncirculated bills command the highest premiums, circulated bills with exceptional patterns are still quite valuable. Solid serial numbers, perfect ladders, and radar patterns can be worth significant premiums over face value even in circulated condition.
The rarer the pattern, the less condition matters. For example, a circulated $1 bill with a solid “88888888” serial number could still be worth $300-500 to the right collector, despite showing wear.
When selling circulated fancy serial number bills, be sure to accurately describe the condition to set proper expectations.
Generally, yes. Like most collectibles, fancy serial number bills have shown a tendency to appreciate over time for several reasons:
- Growing collector base: The hobby has expanded significantly in recent years
- Limited supply: The odds of finding specific patterns don’t change, keeping supply constrained
- Increased awareness: Greater knowledge about these patterns means more bills are removed from circulation
- Inflation: As the purchasing power of currency decreases, collectible premiums often increase
That said, market values can fluctuate based on collector interest and economic conditions. The rarest patterns tend to show the most stable long-term appreciation.
All current US dollar denominations ($1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100) have 8-digit serial numbers and can feature fancy patterns. However, there are some important considerations:
- $1 and $2 bills: Most commonly collected due to lower cost of entry
- $5, $10, and $20 bills: Less commonly checked, which can make finding fancy patterns in circulation slightly more likely
- $50 and $100 bills: Command the highest premiums when featuring fancy serial numbers, but are more expensive to collect
Generally, higher denominations with the same fancy pattern will be worth more than lower denominations, simply because the base value of the note is higher.
Common Misconceptions
Myth: All Low Numbers Are Valuable
While very low numbers (under 100) can be valuable, a bill with a number like 12345678 is actually more valuable than one with 00012345 because it forms a perfect ladder pattern.
Myth: Star Notes Always Command Huge Premiums
Star notes (with a star symbol after the serial number) are replacement notes. While they’re less common, only truly rare star notes with low print runs or fancy serial numbers command significant premiums.
Myth: Only Uncirculated Bills Are Valuable
While condition matters, a circulated bill with an extraordinary pattern (like a solid 88888888) can still be worth hundreds of dollars.
Myth: Fancy Serial Numbers Are a Recent Phenomenon
Collectors have prized fancy serial numbers for decades. The internet has simply made trading and identifying these patterns easier.
Expert Advice
When buying fancy serial number bills, be wary of inflated asking prices. Research completed sales (not just listings) to understand fair market values. For selling, patience often yields better results than accepting the first offer.
Try Our Fancy Serial Number Checker Tool Now!
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The thrill of the hunt is what makes fancy serial number collecting so exciting. You never know when a valuable pattern might be hiding in your wallet or cash register!
Hello, I am very curious about this $20 I have. What is your opinion of it, and what recommendation do you have for me?
Hi Aaron,
What you have
Series: 2017 A
Federal Reserve District: San Francisco (“PL” prefix, district 12)
Serial number: PL 21119992 J
Plate/position codes: D216 (front), “L 12” (district seal)
Signatures: Carranza – Mnuchin
Condition (from the scan): it looks nice and crisp with squared-off corners, but I can’t rule out light folds or handling from a photo alone. True “CU/UNC” status would need an in-hand look under good lighting.
Is the serial number special?
It isn’t a radar, repeater, ladder, binary, star, or low/high run note, but it does tick two “fun-to-collect” boxes:
*Typical eBay retail asking premiums for modern $20s; realized prices vary with condition and photo quality.
Because it’s not a star note and the pattern isn’t one of the extremely sought-after types (solids, radars, repeaters, ladders, 0000xxxx lows, etc.), the value bump is modest.
How many were printed?
The BEP printed San Francisco (PL-block) 2017A $20s in multiple 32-million-note runs starting in January 2020; your “J” suffix comes from later runs, so tens of millions share that prefix/suffix combination. Rarity therefore depends almost entirely on the serial pattern, not the print run.
Market snapshot (modern $20s with similar serials)
Crisp UNC trinary/book-end $20s commonly list for $24-$32 and sell nearer $22-$26.
Lightly circulated examples usually bring face value to $22.
Unless the note is truly gem unc (full original embossing, no bends), serious third-party grading (PMG/PCGS) won’t add enough value to cover grading fees.
Recommendations
Evaluate the paper:
Look for any folds when the note is tilted under a single light. A single corner fold drops it to AU and most of the premium disappears.
If the note is wavy or shows surface dirt, it’s EF/VF and worth spending.
If it’s crisp unc and you enjoy collecting:
Slip it in a mylar (not PVC) currency sleeve and keep it as a fun pocket-find.
OR list it on eBay with clear, glare-free photos and a BIN of ~$27-$30; start at $24 if you want a quick sale.
If there’s any noticeable wear:
Spend it, or keep it as a conversation piece—realistically it won’t net more than a dollar or two over face.
Think long-term:
Modern small-size notes generally need either a star, a spectacular serial, or an unusual error to gain significant value. A trinary $20 in gem grade may rise a bit over decades, but it’s unlikely to outpace other investments.
Bottom line: it’s a neat “trinary/book-end” find that might bring a small premium if truly uncirculated, but it’s not rare. Keep it if you enjoy it; otherwise, list it or spend it without regret.
Feel free to drop a couple more photos taken straight-on in natural light (front and back, out of the scanner) if you’d like help confirming the grade!