U.S. Currency Forum

lab4586 · Joined: 18 Jan 2004 Posts: 3 Location: Michigan

I have a $1 From the 1995 Series which is a Federal Reserve Note, Green Seal, Printed in San Francisco, and is in Good condition, my question is about the Serial Number: After the Serial Number there is a star, and I was wondering what this meant, and if it adds any value to the bill. The Serial Number is as follows: L04077948*

I also have a $10 Federal Reserve Note issued in 1950A, that was Printed in Chicago. The Seal is Green also. The Serial Number is G72195515B and is in good condition. I was also wondering the value of this bill.

ksamsel · Joined: 22 Dec 2003 Posts: 90

When an imperfect note is detected during the manufacturing process after the serial number has been overprinted, it must be replaced with a new note. A "star" note is used to replace the imperfect note. Reusing that exact serial number to replace the imperfect note is costly and time consuming. The "star" note has its own special serial number followed by a star in place of a suffix letter.
The serial number of the imperfect note that was removed is not used again in the same numbering sequence.
Although scarcer than their counterparts, usually only the older issues carry a worthwhile premium. Newer issues with few exceptions, are plentiful and most sell at only a fraction above face value.

1950 A $10 Federal Reserve Notes sell for $12.-$15. in average circulated condition.

lab4586 · Joined: 18 Jan 2004 Posts: 3 Location: Michigan

Every issue of US currency (yes, every issue... including the Series and Denominations you have in your wallet right now) has errors, short printing runs, rare block combinations and several other things that can make notes found in everyday circulation worth far more than face value. Collectors are paying over $2000.00 for Series 1995 $1.00 notes with an error that most people would not even notice, but one that jumps out at people who know what to look for.

ksamsel · Joined: 22 Dec 2003 Posts: 90

You're right about that. Most people wouldn't notice or look for, mismatched serial numbers, solid radars, repeaters, ladders, inverted backs, or the the web press printings, to name a few, which I'm sure all exist in circulation today.

lab4586 · Joined: 18 Jan 2004 Posts: 3 Location: Michigan

So does this have anything to do with my particular bill, or is mine just valued at $1, I am not really into searching about money, but this star caught my eye once I was about to spend it. And how I interpreted this is by the star meaning it was valued at more. Thank you for all of your help.

ksamsel · Joined: 22 Dec 2003 Posts: 90

1995 $1 San Francisco District Star notes, typically sell for $1.50 each in uncirculated condition. An excellent source of information for those looking for scarce serial numbers is the "Standard Guide to Small Size U.S. Paper Money 1928 to Date" by Dean Oakes and John Schwartz. This book provides detailed information such as all reported serial numbers and quantities printed for nearly every note issued since 1928, and valuations for all star replacement notes. For those hunting for rare varieties, this book is indispensable. The new edition lists at $24.95 but can be pre ordered for $16.49 here: http://uscurrencyauctions.com/0896895750_standard-guide-to-small-size-us-paper-money-1928-to-date.html