Many of us have held onto a $2 bill, perhaps as a quirky collector’s item or even as a token of luck. But did you realize that this seemingly simple note might actually be worth more than its face value?

Experts from U.S. Currency Auctions share that uncirculated $2 bills from as far back as 1890 can fetch at least $4,500. Even those bills from various years between 1862 and 1917 can bring in more than $1,000, depending on certain conditions such as the method and location of printing.

Interestingly, newer $2 bills can also command high prices. For instance, one issued in 2003 was auctioned in 2022 for an astonishing $2,400. This particular bill boasted an exceptionally low serial number for its series and was sold through Heritage Auctions, the world’s largest numismatic auction house. It later changed hands again for $4,000.

Is the $2 Bill Rare?

In a 2022 report by the Federal Reserve, it was noted that only 1.5 billion $2 bills were in circulation, making up just a tiny portion of the total $54.1 billion worth of currency that year.

About the $2 Bill

If you take a closer look at a current $2 bill, the front showcases Thomas Jefferson, celebrated for drafting the Declaration of Independence. Meanwhile, the reverse side magnificently depicts the momentous signing of that paramount document.

The $2 bill has had its fair share of misunderstandings due to old superstitions and its wrong associations with illicit acts such as voter bribery. The U.S. Treasury once tried to make the bill a regular part of everyday transactions in the early 20th century. Unfortunately, their efforts didn’t quite hit the mark, resulting in the temporary halt of its production.

Thankfully, in 1976, as America was gearing up for its bicentennial celebrations, the $2 bill made its comeback and is still circulated to this day.