Star Note Lookup
Check the value of your star note replacement bill
Note: This tool currently supports Federal Reserve Notes only.
For other types (Silver Certificates, Gold Certificates, etc.), please visit our Auction History Search to check historical auction records.
Valuation Results | Serial: G05269306★
| Run ID | Serials | Size | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-1 | G00000001* - G03200000* | 3,200,000 | Sep 1, 1985 |
| G-2 | G03200001* - G06400000* | 3,200,000 | Jun 1, 1987 |
Recent Sales History
How to Use the Star Note Lookup Tool
Select Denomination
Choose your star note’s dollar value from the dropdown menu ($1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, or $100).
Choose Series Year
Select the series year printed on your bill (found on the front, often near the portrait).
Enter Serial Number
Type the complete serial number including the star symbol (e.g., B08484500★).
Get Valuation
Click the “Get Valuation” button to receive your star note’s detailed analysis and value range.
Understanding Your Results
After clicking “Get Valuation,” you’ll receive detailed information about your star note including:
- Rarity Score: How uncommon your star note is based on run size
- Run Size: Number of notes in your star note’s specific production batch
- Value Range: Estimated market value based on historical sales
- Recent Sales: Actual market transactions of similar star notes
Double-Check Your Serial Number
Even one incorrect digit can lead to inaccurate results.
Use the Star Symbol
Make sure to include the star (★) at the end of the serial number.
Verify Series and Denomination
Small differences can significantly impact valuation results.
Look for Fancy Patterns
Notes with special serial number patterns may be worth more.
Understanding the Valuation Results
Rarity Score Explained
| Rarity Category | Run Size | Market Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra Rare Highest collector demand | ≤ 320,000 notes | |
| Very Rare Highly sought after | ≤ 1,280,000 notes | |
| Scarce Above average value | ≤ 3,200,000 notes | |
| Common Modest premium value | ≤ 9,600,000 notes | |
| Abundant Minimal collector premium | > 9,600,000 notes |
Run Size & Total Size
Run Size
The specific batch quantity of star notes produced to replace defective bills in a particular printing run.
Total Size
The overall quantity of star notes produced for that denomination and series across all printing runs.
Value Range Interpretation
Estimated Value Range
Your result shows potential market value based on historical sales data of similar star notes.
- Condition grade (especially EPQ/PPQ)
- Fancy serial numbers
- Printing errors
- Autographs
What Determines the Value of a Star Note?
Condition Grading
| Grade | Description | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|
| UNC EPQ/PPQ | Uncirculated with Exceptional/Premium Paper Quality | ++++++ |
| UNC 67-70 | Gem Uncirculated (perfect or near-perfect) | +++++ |
| UNC 63-66 | Choice Uncirculated (minimal imperfections) | ++++ |
| AU 50-58 | About Uncirculated (minimal handling) | +++ |
| XF/EF 40-45 | Extremely Fine (light circulation) | ++ |
| VF 20-35 | Very Fine (moderate circulation) | + |
Fancy Serial Numbers
Solid
All digits the same
B00000000★
Premium: 50-1000x base value
Ladder
Sequential ascending/descending
B12345678★
Premium: 20-200x base value
Radar
Reads same forward & backward
B12344321★
Premium: 10-50x base value
Low Numbers
Early serial numbers
B00000001★
Premium: 5-100x base value
Printing Errors
Misalignment
Off-center printing where design elements are significantly shifted in one direction.
Ink Errors
Smears, missing ink, or wrong colors that passed quality control.
Overprints
Elements printed on top of each other creating overlay effects.
Cutting Errors
Miscut notes with incorrect dimensions or showing parts of adjacent notes.
Autographs & Historical Significance
Treasury Signatures
Notes signed by Treasury Secretaries or Treasurers can command significant premiums, especially from the less common officials.
Historical Context
Notes from significant historical periods or economic events (like the 2008 financial crisis) may have additional collector interest.
First/Last of Series
Star notes from the first or last production runs of a particular series can attract premium collector interest.
Value Multiplier Effect
When multiple value factors combine in a single star note, the effect is often multiplicative rather than additive. For example, an uncirculated star note with both a fancy serial number and from a small run size could be worth significantly more than the sum of these individual factors.
Tips for Star Note Collectors
Preservation Guide
Protect your investment
Use Proper Storage
Store notes in archival-quality currency holders made of inert materials like Mylar or polyethylene. Never use PVC sleeves as they can damage notes over time.
Handle with Care
Always handle notes by the edges while wearing cotton gloves. Oils from your skin can transfer to the paper and gradually degrade it.
Control Environment
Keep notes away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. Aim for 65-70°F with 40-50% relative humidity.
Avoid Alterations
Never attempt to clean, press, or repair notes yourself. Do not use tape, staples, paper clips, or any adhesives on your notes.
Smart Buying & Selling
Market strategies
Where to Buy
- Currency Auctions: Heritage, Stack’s Bowers, GreatCollections
- Online Marketplaces: eBay (check seller ratings)
- Coin Shows: ANA events, local currency shows
- Dealers: Established numismatic businesses
Where to Sell
- Consignment Auctions: Best for valuable notes
- Direct to Collectors: Currency forums, social media
- eBay: Excellent exposure for mid-range notes
- Dealer Buy Lists: Quick sales but lower returns
Collection Strategies
Focus your efforts
Federal Reserve Sets
Collect one star note from each of the 12 Federal Reserve Banks (A-L) for a specific denomination and series.
Rarity Focus
Target only “Very Rare” or “Ultra Rare” runs with sizes under 1.28 million for maximum potential appreciation.
Series Collection
Collect star notes from consecutive series years of the same denomination to track design changes over time.
Birthday Notes
Search for star notes with serial numbers matching important dates (e.g., 01232021★ for January 23, 2021).
Fancy Combinations
Focus on star notes that also have fancy serial numbers, creating a “double premium” collection.
Circulation Finds
Check all your cash regularly for star notes. Build a collection exclusively from circulation finds for a budget-friendly approach.
The Collector’s Edge
Successful star note collectors combine knowledge, patience, and strategic thinking. Use our Star Note Lookup tool regularly to identify hidden gems in circulation and marketplaces. Remember that condition and rarity are the foundation of value, while fancy serial numbers and printing errors create exceptional opportunities for significant premiums.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Star Notes
A star note is a replacement banknote issued by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) when the original note was flawed during printing. The star symbol at the end of the serial number (replacing the letter suffix on regular notes) identifies it as a replacement note.
This system allows the BEP to maintain proper accounting of all notes printed without disrupting the production process or changing serial number counts. Since star notes are only printed to replace defective notes, they’re produced in smaller quantities than regular notes, making them more collectible.
The primary factor determining a star note’s rarity is its run size (the number of replacement notes printed in that specific batch). Our Star Note Lookup tool provides this critical information based on official BEP production data.
The rarity scale ranges from “Ultra Rare” (≤320,000 notes) to “Abundant” (>9,600,000 notes). Notes from smaller runs are generally more valuable to collectors.
Beyond run size, look for additional factors that increase rarity:
- High-grade condition (especially uncirculated)
- Fancy serial number patterns
- Additional printing errors
- Older series years
Generally, yes. Older star notes tend to be more valuable because:
- Many have been removed from circulation over time, increasing rarity
- Older notes that survive in good condition are harder to find
- Some older series had smaller star note production runs
However, run size is still the primary value determinant. A modern star note from a very small run could be worth more than an older star note from a large run. Our tool provides specific data for each combination of denomination and series year.
Using the Lookup Tool
The value range is based on verified transactions in our system and provides a reasonable estimate for most star notes. However, actual sale prices can vary significantly based on:
- Condition (grade quality)
- Serial number characteristics
- Current market demand
- Additional note features
Think of the value range as a reference point rather than a definitive valuation. The Recent Sales History section shows actual transaction prices to give you concrete examples of market value.
Federal Reserve Notes are the most common type of currency in circulation today, making up the vast majority of star notes that collectors encounter. Our tool focuses on these to provide the most accurate and comprehensive data for notes you’re likely to find.
For other types of currency with star notes such as:
- Silver Certificates
- Gold Certificates
- United States Notes
- Other specialized currency
We recommend using our Auction History Search which provides more detailed historical auction records for these specialized notes.
Grading currency requires expertise and is somewhat subjective. For the most accurate grade, consider these options:
Buying & Selling
This depends on several factors:
- Rarity: Star notes from smaller runs (especially “Ultra Rare” and “Very Rare” categories) tend to appreciate over time.
- Condition: Higher-grade notes generally increase in value more than circulated ones.
- Special characteristics: Notes with fancy serial numbers or errors often appreciate more significantly.
- Your timeline: Currency collecting is typically a long-term investment.
If you have a particularly rare star note or one with special characteristics, it might be worth consulting with a professional currency dealer for personalized advice.
The best selling venue depends on your note’s value and your priorities:
| Venue | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Currency Auctions | Rare, valuable notes | Highest potential prices | Fees, longer timeline |
| eBay | Mid-range notes | Wide audience | Fees, potential scams |
| Collector Forums | Specialized notes | Knowledgeable buyers | Limited audience |
| Dealers | Quick sales | Immediate payment | Lower prices |
For maximum value, consider having valuable notes professionally graded before selling.
Protect yourself when buying star notes with these precautions:
- Buy from reputable sources – Established dealers, auction houses, and sellers with strong feedback
- Verify with our tool – Check if the serial number corresponds to a legitimate star note run
- Examine security features – Learn the security features for the specific series and denomination
- Be wary of “too good to be true” deals – Unusually low prices for rare notes are often red flags
- Buy graded notes – Notes in PCGS or PMG holders have been authenticated by experts
- Check for alterations – Look for signs that a regular note has been modified to appear as a star note
When in doubt about a high-value purchase, consider consulting with a currency authentication expert.
Advanced Topics
EPQ (Exceptional Paper Quality) and PPQ (Premium Paper Quality) are designations given by professional grading services that significantly increase a note’s value:
- Original paper – The note shows no signs of washing, pressing, or chemical treatments
- Embossing – Original raised ink detail from the printing process is intact
- Paper quality – The paper retains its original crispness and characteristics
- Print quality – Original ink color and vibrancy is preserved
Star notes with EPQ/PPQ designations often sell for 30-100% more than the same grade without this designation. This premium is highest for uncirculated notes.
Star note run sizes are determined by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing based on anticipated replacement needs for each print run. The BEP publishes this data, which forms the basis for our rarity classifications.
Run sizes have generally increased over time:
- Pre-1990s: Typically smaller runs (often 640,000 or fewer)
- 1990s-2000s: Medium runs (typically 1.28 million)
- Modern era: Larger runs (often 3.2 million or more)
However, there are many exceptions to these general trends, which is why our lookup tool is so valuable for determining the specific run size for your star note.
Yes! While finding older and rarer star notes in circulation is challenging, it’s still possible to find valuable star notes in everyday cash:
The key is to check every star note you find with our lookup tool. What looks like an ordinary bill might be from a small replacement run worth many times its face value!
Have another question?
Don’t see your question answered here? Contact us for more information about star notes or using our lookup tool.
Exactly what I have been looking for. Not only does this web site ID the note but gives you a list of possible value. Great!!!
Hi Robert,
Thank you for the wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled that the Star Note Lookup gave you exactly what you needed. Your support means a lot to us and motivates us to keep improving the tool.
Happy collecting!
Is my $1 star note serial # B03950397* from 2013, really worth up to $700.00
Short answer:
Your note is in the famous 2013 “B★ duplicate” range, but by itself it’s usually a $20 – $60 curiosity—not a $700 windfall. The big money goes to matched pairs (one Washington DC print + one Fort Worth print with the identical serial) or to top‑graded examples that speculators chase.
1. Why some 2013 B★ notes made headlines
So any 2013 $1 star note whose number falls between B 00000001★ and B 09600000★ potentially has an identical twin printed at the other facility. Your B03950397★ sits squarely inside the second overlap block (B03200001★‑B06400000★).
2. What collectors actually pay
Why the $700 example in your screenshot? It was a single DC note that rode a brief hype wave; similar notes often relist unsold today around $300. Most collectors now recognize that a lone note is not an error—it’s just half of one.
3. How to tell which half you have
Look at the tiny plate‐position code just right of the green Treasury seal:
Knowing the facility helps if you ever find (or trade for) its opposite‑facility twin.
4. What you can do
Bottom line
Unless you can pair your B03950397★ with its opposite‑facility mate—or have it graded Gem‑67+—it’s a neat conversation piece worth a few dozen dollars, not $700. Happy collecting, and good luck hunting for that elusive twin!
I have a 10 bill series 2013 serial #MB01030681 with a star. When i try and check it the computer say to put in correct format. It is in correct format
Hi Donna,
Thanks for reaching out—let’s get that lookup working for you and go over what the results mean.
1. How to enter the serial correctly
Choose the right denomination & series
Denomination: $10
Series year: 2013
Enter the serial exactly as it appears, including the star
Type MB01030681* (no spaces, the star goes at the very end).
Hit “Search.”
Here’s a direct link that’s already pre‑filled for your note—just click and the report will load:
https://www.serialworth.com/star-note-lookup/?denomination=%2410&series=2013&sn=MB01030681*
2. What the lookup shows for MB01030681★
$1 series 2013 A00107119* verification issue?
Dear Richard,
Thank you for bringing the verification issue with serial number A00107119* (2013 series) to our attention. We appreciate your diligence in identifying this problem in our system.
We’ve investigated and fixed the data issue that was causing the error. The system should now properly recognize and verify this star note serial number.
Please try your verification search again when you have a chance. If you encounter any further problems, don’t hesitate to let us know.
Thanks again for your patience and for helping us improve our service.
Verification issue rechecked and double rechecked serial number A00107119* .2013 series
The third printing on the missing error note shown on this site doesn’t show a federal reserve bank seal in black .I have one exactly like the one displayed but has Kansas City Bank seal J, same series number, treasurer, and secretary signature.
Hi Richard,
Thanks for following up with more detail—your clarification actually puts your note in a very different (and much scarcer) category than the “missing–third-printing” example on the website.
Key facts about the 2013 $1 Kansas City ★ run
This 250 k-note run is 1/12.8 the size of a standard 3.2 million-note replacement run, making it the key star note for the entire 2013 $1 series.
Current price realities
Typical recent sales (raw / graded):
*Based on eBay, Heritage, and Stack’s Bowers results from 2023-2025. Registry-quality pieces at PMG 67-EPQ or PCGS 67-PPQ sometimes draw low-to-mid $300s.
What to do next
Image check: Please post or email crisp front-and-back photos so we can confirm the serial falls inside J00000001★–J00250000★ and verify overall condition (centering, embossing, any bends).
Consider grading: If the note is still flat, bright, and free of handling marks, a professional holder from PMG or PCGS can unlock the higher end of the price ranges above.
Safe handling: Keep it in an inert Mylar sleeve, away from PVC plastics, direct light, and humidity swings until you decide on grading or sale.
Market venues:
Quick sale (raw): eBay fixed-price or auction with clear photos and a “250 k star-note” headline.
Premium sale (graded): GreatCollections, Heritage weekly, or Stack’s Bowers Internet sessions often yield stronger bids for certified Gems.
Sorry for confusing you with my last reply but the bill in question isn’t the previous star note but a different bill completely missing third printing green ink resulting in no serial number or green treasury seal. My question was pertaining to how or why can a missing third print be missing the black bank seal if signatures, series, and production facility are printed in black as shown in your example of missing error note. My bill is only missing the green ink print.
Hi Richard,
Thanks for clarifying—it makes perfect sense now.
Let me break down why a note can lose only the green elements while the black Federal Reserve Bank seal remains, and what that means for value and authentication.
1 How the overprint really works
Although collectors call it the “third printing,” modern notes actually pass through two separate over-print units after the face intaglio (black portrait):
Because these passes are independent, a sheet can:
Skip both units → all third-print elements missing (your example on our site)
Miss only OP-B → black seal present, but no green serials or Treasury seal (your note)
Miss only OP-A → green serials & Treasury seal present, but no black district seal
The CoinTalk discussion explains this two-pass system in plain language: “The ‘third’ printing is actually two printings … one for the serial numbers and green seal, and another for the bank seal and numbers.”
2 Authenticity checklist for your note
If the note passes these tests, it’s a legitimate partial-third-print error—scarcer than the more familiar “missing everything” variety.
Thank you very much for your reply. Feeling the bill was kind of no noticeable due to wear it being a 1995 series. Looking through handheld magnifier, a few blue looking fibers were apparent. Uniform green on the reverse. The bill is pretty well worn, when you write scarcer is it a candidate for grading? Your explanation was outstanding thank you again.