What 2013 One Dollar Bills Are Worth Money?

The vast majority of 2013 one dollar bills are worth exactly face value: one dollar. However, certain factors can significantly increase their value to collectors. These factors include low serial numbers, fancy serial numbers, errors, and whether the bill is part of a star note run. In short, if your 2013 dollar bill exhibits any unique characteristic that sets it apart from the millions of others printed, it’s worth investigating further.

Understanding What Makes a 2013 One Dollar Bill Valuable

Delving into the world of currency collecting reveals that value isn’t solely determined by the denomination printed on the bill. Scarcity, condition, and unique features play pivotal roles. Let’s break down the specific elements that transform an ordinary 2013 one dollar bill into a collector’s item.

Low Serial Numbers

Low serial numbers, particularly those below 100, are highly sought after by collectors. The lower the number, the more desirable the bill. For instance, a 2013 one dollar bill with a serial number like 00000012 would command a substantial premium. These represent some of the first bills printed in a series and are therefore more rare.

Fancy Serial Numbers

Fancy serial numbers encompass a range of patterns that collectors find aesthetically pleasing or interesting. These patterns can include:

• Solids: All digits are the same (e.g., 77777777)
• Ladders: Digits ascend or descend sequentially (e.g., 12345678 or 87654321)
• Repeaters: Repeating patterns of digits (e.g., 12121212 or 45454545)
• Radars: Serial numbers that read the same backward and forward (palindromes, e.g., 12344321)
• Repeaters: Repeating patterns of digits (e.g., 12121212)
• Binary: Using only two digits (e.g., 10101010)

The rarer and more visually striking the fancy serial number, the higher the potential value of the bill.

Error Notes

Error notes are misprinted bills that escaped quality control at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). These errors can range from minor misalignments to significant printing defects. Common types of errors include:

• Misprints: Ink smudges, offset printing
• Cutting Errors: Bills that are not cut correctly
• Blank Notes: Bills that are missing printing on one or both sides
• Inverted Overprints: The serial number and seal being printed upside down

The value of an error note depends on the severity and rarity of the error. Dramatic and easily visible errors generally fetch higher prices.

Star Notes

Star notes are replacement bills used to correct printing errors during the production process. They are identified by a star symbol (*) at the end of their serial number. The BEP uses star notes to maintain accurate accounting when imperfect bills are removed from a run.

The value of a 2013 star note hinges on its rarity, determined by the size of the print run. If the BEP printed a small number of star notes for a particular series and Federal Reserve district, the note will be more valuable. You can research the print run of your specific star note to gauge its potential value. Websites such as Star Note Lookup can be beneficial.

Condition

The condition of a 2013 one dollar bill is paramount in determining its value. Collectors prefer uncirculated bills that are crisp, clean, and free from folds or damage. Grading services like PCGS Currency and PMG (Paper Money Guaranty) assign grades to banknotes based on their condition, ranging from Poor to Gem Uncirculated. Higher grades command significantly higher prices. Circulated bills with significant wear and tear will generally be worth only face value, even if they possess a rare serial number or error.

Determining the Value: Research and Appraisal

Once you have identified a potential valuable 2013 one dollar bill, further research is necessary to determine its actual worth.

• Online Resources: Websites like eBay (reviewing completed listings), Heritage Auctions, and specialized currency collecting forums provide valuable data on recent sales of similar bills.

• Currency Dealers: Local coin and currency dealers can offer expert appraisals and insights into the value of your bill. Be sure to seek opinions from multiple dealers to get a comprehensive assessment.

• Grading Services: If you believe your bill is in exceptional condition, consider submitting it to a professional grading service like PCGS Currency or PMG. A certified grade can significantly increase the bill’s value and appeal to collectors.

Keep in mind that the value of collectible currency can fluctuate based on market demand and collector preferences. What might be worth a substantial sum today could be worth less in the future, and vice-versa.

FAQs: 2013 One Dollar Bills and Their Worth

Here are some frequently asked questions concerning the value of 2013 one dollar bills, which provide further insight into the nuances of currency collecting:

1. Are all 2013 star notes valuable? No, not all 2013 star notes are valuable. Their worth depends on the size of the print run for that specific series and Federal Reserve district. Smaller print runs are rarer and more valuable.

2. How do I find the serial number of a 2013 one dollar bill? The serial number is located on the front of the bill, in the upper-left and lower-right corners. It consists of a letter, eight digits, and another letter.

3. What does the letter before the serial number signify? The letter before the serial number indicates the Federal Reserve district that issued the bill. Each letter corresponds to a specific Federal Reserve Bank.

4. Where can I find information about 2013 star note print runs? Websites such as Star Note Lookup and specialized currency collecting forums provide information on star note print runs.

5. How do I protect my valuable 2013 one dollar bill? Store your bill in a protective currency sleeve or holder made of archival-quality material. Avoid handling the bill unnecessarily to prevent damage.

6. What is the difference between an uncirculated and a circulated bill? An uncirculated bill is in pristine condition, showing no signs of wear or handling. A circulated bill has been used in commerce and may exhibit folds, creases, and dirt.

7. Is it worth getting a 2013 one dollar bill graded? Grading is worthwhile if you believe your bill is in exceptional condition. A certified grade from a reputable grading service can increase the bill’s value and marketability.

8. What are some common errors found on one dollar bills? Common errors include misprints, cutting errors, blank notes, and inverted overprints.

9. Are sequential serial numbers valuable? Sequential serial numbers (e.g., 12345679, following 12345678) are generally more valuable when they are uncirculated and sold as a pair or in a larger group. Single notes are often not worth a premium.

10. How do I sell a valuable 2013 one dollar bill? You can sell your bill through online auction sites like eBay, at coin and currency shows, or to a reputable currency dealer.

11. What is the red seal on a one dollar bill? The red seal on a one dollar bill is the Treasury Seal. It indicates that the bill is a United States Note.

12. What is considered a low serial number for a one dollar bill? Generally, serial numbers below 100 are considered low and can be valuable to collectors. The lower the number, the more desirable it is. Single-digit serial numbers (e.g., 00000001) are extremely rare and command high prices.

In conclusion, while most 2013 one dollar bills are worth only their face value, those with low serial numbers, fancy serial numbers, errors, or those identified as star notes could potentially be worth significantly more. Careful examination, research, and, if necessary, professional appraisal are essential to determining the true value of your 2013 one dollar bill. Happy hunting!