Quick Answer: The most valuable modern star notes come from extremely low print runs of 160,000 notes or fewer. A $100 Series 2009A Richmond star note (128,000 printed) sells for $500+ uncirculated. A $5 Series 2017A New York star (125,000 printed) brings $150-$250. Even $1 star notes from runs under 250,000 can fetch $75-$150. Print run size, condition, and denomination determine whether your star note is worth face value or a serious collector premium.
Star notes, the replacement bills marked with a ★ symbol at the end of the serial number, are one of the most popular areas of modern currency collecting. But not all star notes are created equal. Some are printed in runs of millions and worth nothing over face value, while others come from tiny production batches that make them genuinely rare.
This guide breaks down the most valuable star notes for every denomination, organized by rarity tier, with real production data and market prices.
How Star Note Rarity Works
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) prints star notes as replacements whenever bills are damaged during production. Each star note belongs to a specific print run, identified by denomination, series year, and Federal Reserve Bank district.
The size of that print run is the single biggest factor in determining value.
Star Note Rarity Tiers
| Rarity Tier | Print Run Size | Typical Value Multiple |
|---|---|---|
| Extremely Rare | 160,000 or fewer | 10x-50x face value |
| Very Rare | 160,001-320,000 | 5x-20x face value |
| Rare | 320,001-640,000 | 2x-10x face value |
| Uncommon | 640,001-1,280,000 | 1.5x-5x face value |
| Common | 1,280,001-3,200,000 | 1x-2x face value |
| Abundant | Over 3,200,000 | Face value |
Rarity classifications based on collector consensus and BEP production data. Value multiples apply to uncirculated or lightly circulated examples.
About 65% of all star note print runs fall in the Common or Abundant range. Only about 1% qualify as Extremely Rare. Finding one of those is where real value begins.
Most Valuable $1 Star Notes
The $1 denomination has the highest volume of star note production, which means most $1 stars are common. The valuable ones stand out because of unusually small print runs.
Top $1 Star Notes by Value
| Series | FRB District | Print Run | Rarity | Approx. Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | I - Minneapolis | 250,000 | Very Rare | $75-$150 |
| 2013 | J - Kansas City | 250,000 | Very Rare | $75-$150 |
| 2013 | B - New York (duplicated run) | 3,200,000 | Special | $300-$500+ (matched pair) |
| 2021S | A - Boston | 20,000 (sheet star) | Extremely Rare | $50-$200+ |
| 2017A | A - Boston (non-reported) | Unknown | Extremely Rare | $100-$300+ |
| 2013 | K - Dallas | 640,000 | Rare | $25-$75 |
| 2009 | I - Minneapolis | 640,000 | Rare | $20-$50 |
| 2006 | I - Minneapolis | 640,000 | Rare | $15-$40 |
Values from recent Heritage Auctions realized prices and eBay sold listings for uncirculated examples.
The 2013 B-Star Duplicate Run
The most famous modern $1 star note is the 2013 Series B (New York) duplicate run. Due to a production error, the BEP printed two separate batches of $1 star notes with overlapping serial numbers from the New York district. This means two different bills exist with the same serial number.
Matched pairs (one from each print batch) have sold for $300-$500+ at auction. Individual notes from the duplicate range are worth $20-$50 depending on serial number and condition.
What to Look For in $1 Stars
- Minneapolis (I) district stars consistently have smaller runs
- Sheet stars (sold as uncut sheets) tend to have lower production numbers
- Series 2017 and 2013 have the most valuable modern $1 stars
- Check the star note lookup tool to see your specific run size
Most Valuable $2 Star Notes
The $2 denomination is already scarce in circulation, and $2 star notes are even harder to find. The BEP prints $2 bills infrequently (sometimes going years between production runs), which naturally limits star note quantities.
Top $2 Star Notes by Value
| Series | FRB District | Print Run | Rarity | Approx. Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017A | B - New York | 32,000 (sheet) | Extremely Rare | $200-$500+ |
| 2017A | L - San Francisco | 32,000 (sheet) | Extremely Rare | $200-$500+ |
| 2017A | L - San Francisco (#4) | 64,000 (sheet) | Extremely Rare | $150-$350 |
| 2017A | I - Minneapolis | 160,000 (sheet) | Extremely Rare | $100-$250 |
| 2017A | B - New York (#2) | 160,000 (sheet) | Extremely Rare | $80-$200 |
| 2021 | J - Kansas City | 500,000 (sheet) | Rare | $30-$75 |
| 2017A | G - Chicago | 640,000 (sheet) | Rare | $25-$60 |
| 2013 | Various | Varies | Varies | $15-$100 |
For a complete breakdown of $2 bill values beyond star notes, see our $2 bill value guide.
Why $2 Stars Are Especially Collectible
Three factors make $2 star notes stand out:
- Low base production. The BEP prints far fewer $2 bills than any other denomination, so replacement runs are proportionally tiny.
- High collector demand. The $2 bill already has a strong collecting community. Adding star note status increases desirability.
- Sheet stars dominate. Many $2 star note runs are produced as uncut sheets for collector sales, meaning sheet-format stars (rather than pack-format) are common in this denomination.
A $2 star note from a run of 160,000 or less in uncirculated condition is a genuinely valuable find.
Most Valuable $5 Star Notes
The $5 denomination occupies a sweet spot for star note collectors. Production volumes are lower than $1 or $20 bills, and several recent series have produced extremely small replacement runs.
Top $5 Star Notes by Value
| Series | FRB District | Print Run | Rarity | Approx. Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017A | B - New York | 125,000 | Extremely Rare | $150-$250 |
| 2013 | J - Kansas City | 250,000 | Very Rare | $60-$100 |
| 2021G | F - Atlanta | 640,000 (sheet) | Rare | $25-$50 |
| 2017A | Various | 640,000-1,280,000 | Rare to Uncommon | $15-$40 |
| 2013 | Various | 3,200,000 | Common | $6-$10 |
| 2009 | Various | Varies | Varies | $8-$30 |
The 2017A B-New York run of 125,000 is currently the most valuable modern $5 star note in collector markets.
For more on vintage $5 bill values, see our old $5 bills worth money guide.
Most Valuable $10 Star Notes
$10 star notes include some surprisingly rare modern examples. The BEP's irregular production schedule for this denomination creates pockets of extreme scarcity.
Top $10 Star Notes by Value
| Series | FRB District | Print Run | Rarity | Approx. Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017A | G - Chicago | 128,000 | Extremely Rare | $180-$280 |
| 2017 | F - Atlanta | 128,000 | Extremely Rare | $180-$280 |
| 1999 | E - Richmond | 3,200 | Extremely Rare | $1,000-$3,000+ |
| 2004A | F - Atlanta | 9,600 | Extremely Rare | $500-$1,500 |
| 2017A | Various | 640,000-1,280,000 | Rare to Uncommon | $20-$60 |
| 2013 | Various | 3,200,000 | Common | $12-$18 |
The Ultra-Rare 1999 E-Richmond $10 Star
With only 3,200 notes printed, the Series 1999 $10 E-Richmond star note is one of the rarest modern star notes of any denomination. Uncirculated examples are extremely difficult to find and command four-figure prices when they surface at auction.
The Series 2004A F-Atlanta run of 9,600 notes is nearly as scarce. Both of these runs were produced to replace damaged notes during relatively small overall production periods.
For more on older $10 bills, see our old $10 bills worth money guide.
Most Valuable $20 Star Notes
The $20 is the most commonly used denomination in everyday transactions, so the BEP prints large volumes. However, certain Federal Reserve districts produce star note runs that are much smaller than average.
Top $20 Star Notes by Value
| Series | FRB District | Print Run | Rarity | Approx. Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | D - Cleveland | 160,000 | Extremely Rare | $200-$300 |
| 2013 | Various | 320,000-640,000 | Very Rare to Rare | $60-$150 |
| 2017A | Various | 640,000-3,200,000 | Rare to Common | $25-$80 |
| 2009 | Various | Varies | Varies | $25-$60 |
| 2004A | Various | 640,000 | Rare | $40-$100 |
| 2001 | Various | 640,000-3,200,000 | Varies | $25-$75 |
The 2017 D-Cleveland run of 160,000 is the standout here. Cleveland district stars appear less frequently than those from high-volume districts like New York or Atlanta.
For vintage $20 bill values, check our old $20 bills worth money guide.
Most Valuable $50 Star Notes
$50 star notes are inherently scarcer because the BEP prints fewer $50 bills overall. In 2025, for example, almost no $50 notes of any kind were produced for much of the year, making recent $50 stars particularly hard to find.
Top $50 Star Notes by Value
| Series | FRB District | Print Run | Rarity | Approx. Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017A | J - Kansas City | 128,000 | Extremely Rare | $400+ |
| 2017A | Various | 320,000-640,000 | Very Rare to Rare | $100-$250 |
| 2013 | Various | 640,000-3,200,000 | Rare to Common | $60-$120 |
| 2009 | Various | Varies | Varies | $70-$150 |
| 2004 | Various | 640,000 | Rare | $80-$175 |
Why $50 Stars Are Underrated
Many collectors overlook $50 star notes because the higher face value makes them more expensive to accumulate. This actually works in your favor as a collector: less competition means you can sometimes find rare $50 stars at reasonable prices before broader market demand catches up.
The BEP's irregular $50 production schedule (sometimes going months without printing any $50 notes) means future star note runs in this denomination could be especially limited.
For more on older $50 bills, see our old $50 bills worth money guide.
Most Valuable $100 Star Notes
$100 star notes carry the highest absolute dollar values because of their high face value combined with collector premiums. Even a modest 2x multiplier on a $100 star means the note is worth $200.
Top $100 Star Notes by Value
| Series | FRB District | Print Run | Rarity | Approx. Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009A | E - Richmond | 128,000 | Extremely Rare | $500-$1,500+ |
| 2017A | F - Atlanta | 160,000 | Extremely Rare | $500-$1,000+ |
| 2021 | A - Boston | 320,000 (sheet) | Very Rare | $300-$700 |
| 2021 | F - Atlanta | 320,000 (sheet) | Very Rare | $300-$700 |
| 2021 | H - St. Louis | 640,000 (sheet) | Rare | $200-$400 |
| 2017A | Various | 3,200,000 | Common | $105-$130 |
| 2013 | Various | 3,200,000 | Common | $110-$140 |
Prices for the 2021 Boston and Atlanta runs reflect early market data. As more notes enter circulation, prices may adjust.
2026 Production Update
The BEP's January 2026 production report shows a new $100 star note run for the Boston (A) district with 320,000 notes, classified as Very Rare. This is consistent with recent trends toward smaller $100 star note batches, particularly for sheet-format replacements.
Collectors should monitor BEP monthly production reports for updates on new runs.
For vintage $100 bills, see our old $100 bills worth money guide.
Top 10 Most Valuable Modern Star Notes (All Denominations)
Combining all denominations, here are the most sought-after modern star notes based on confirmed auction results and current market prices:
| Rank | Denom. | Series | FRB District | Print Run | Market Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $10 | 1999 | E - Richmond | 3,200 | $1,000-$3,000+ |
| 2 | $10 | 2004A | F - Atlanta | 9,600 | $500-$1,500 |
| 3 | $100 | 2009A | E - Richmond | 128,000 | $500-$1,500+ |
| 4 | $100 | 2017A | F - Atlanta | 160,000 | $500-$1,000+ |
| 5 | $50 | 2017A | J - Kansas City | 128,000 | $400+ |
| 6 | $1 | 2013 | B - New York (dup.) | 3,200,000 | $300-$500 (pair) |
| 7 | $100 | 2021 | A - Boston | 320,000 | $300-$700 |
| 8 | $20 | 2017 | D - Cleveland | 160,000 | $200-$300 |
| 9 | $2 | 2017A | B - New York | 32,000 | $200-$500+ |
| 10 | $10 | 2017A | G - Chicago | 128,000 | $180-$280 |
Values based on Heritage Auctions realized prices, eBay sold data, and dealer pricing as of early 2026.
How to Look Up Your Star Note's Print Run
Checking whether your star note is valuable takes just a few minutes.
Step 1: Record Your Note's Details
You need three pieces of information from your bill:
- Denomination ($1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, or $100)
- Series year (printed on the front, e.g., "Series 2017A")
- Federal Reserve district letter (the first character of the serial number)
Step 2: Use a Star Note Lookup Tool
Several free databases track star note production runs:
- MyCurrencyCollection Star Note Lookup: Comprehensive database with print run sizes for every denomination and series
- BEP Monthly Production Reports: Official source data directly from the Bureau of Engraving and Printing
- U.S. Currency Education Program: Official government resource for understanding U.S. currency
Step 3: Check the Run Size
Compare your note's serial number to the known print runs for that denomination, series, and district. If your note falls within a run of 640,000 or fewer, it is at minimum considered Rare.
Step 4: Assess Condition
Condition makes a significant difference in star note values:
| Condition | Effect on Value |
|---|---|
| Gem Uncirculated (65+) | Full premium, highest prices |
| Choice Uncirculated (63-64) | 70-90% of top value |
| Uncirculated (60-62) | 50-70% of top value |
| About Uncirculated | 30-50% of top value |
| Circulated (folds, wear) | 10-30% of top value |
For rare runs (under 320,000), even circulated examples carry meaningful premiums. For common runs, only uncirculated notes hold collector value.
Value Multipliers: What Makes a Star Note Worth Even More
Certain features can multiply a star note's value well beyond the base premium for its print run.
Star Note + Fancy Serial Number
A star note that also has a fancy serial number combines two collectible features. Examples:
- Low serial star: K00000025★ on a rare run could be worth 3-5x the base star value
- Radar star: E12344321★ adds a 2-3x multiplier
- Solid digits star: Nearly impossible to find, but would command thousands
Star Note + Error
A star note with a printing error is exceptionally rare. Errors on star notes include misalignments, ink smears, and missing print elements. These can bring 3-10x the normal star note premium.
Consecutive Star Notes
Owning two or more star notes with sequential serial numbers from a rare print run increases per-note value by 20-50%. A consecutive pair from an Extremely Rare run is a significant find.
Star Note from Both Facilities
The BEP operates printing facilities in Washington, D.C. and Fort Worth, Texas. Having matching star notes (same series, denomination, and district) from both facilities, identified by the "FW" mark on Fort Worth notes, is a niche collecting goal that adds value.
Where to Buy and Sell Valuable Star Notes
Buying
- Heritage Auctions: The largest currency auction house, with extensive star note listings
- eBay: Search "star note [denomination] [series] uncirculated" and filter by sold listings to gauge market prices
- Currency shows: Annual events like the National Money Show offer in-person buying opportunities
- Specialized dealers: Many currency dealers maintain star note inventories organized by denomination and rarity
Selling
For notes worth under $100:
- eBay with detailed photos and accurate descriptions
- Reddit communities like r/papermoney
- Local coin and currency dealers
For notes worth $100+:
- Heritage Auctions or Stack's Bowers for maximum exposure
- Professional grading from PMG or PCGS Currency before selling
- Consignment through major auction houses
For more selling strategies, see our guide on where to sell old paper money.
How to Check Star Notes with CashScan
The fastest way to identify a star note in your possession is to scan it with the CashScan app:
- Open CashScan and point your camera at the bill
- The app identifies the denomination, series year, and key features
- Note the series and district information from the scan results
- Cross-reference the print run data using the lookup tools above
CashScan's star note lookup tool also provides quick access to print run data and rarity classifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most valuable star note you can find in circulation?
Among modern star notes still potentially in circulation, the $100 Series 2009A E-Richmond (128,000 printed) is the highest-value find at $500+ uncirculated. For lower denominations, the $5 Series 2017A B-New York (125,000 printed) at $150-$250 is the top target.
Are $2 star notes more valuable than other denominations?
Dollar-for-dollar, yes. Because the BEP prints $2 bills infrequently, $2 star note runs tend to be very small. A $2 star from a 32,000-note run can be worth $200-$500+, representing a 100x-250x return on face value, a higher multiple than most other denominations achieve.
How do I know if my star note is from a rare print run?
Look up your note's denomination, series year, and Federal Reserve district letter (the first character of the serial number) on a star note lookup database. If the print run for your combination is 640,000 or fewer, your note qualifies as Rare or better.
Do star notes increase in value over time?
Star notes from genuinely rare print runs (under 640,000) have historically appreciated as notes are lost, damaged, or removed from circulation. Common star notes (runs of 3.2 million+) are unlikely to gain meaningful value regardless of how long you hold them.
Should I get my star note professionally graded?
Professional grading from PMG or PCGS Currency is worthwhile for star notes worth $100 or more. Grading costs $20-$65 per note but can increase the selling price by 20-50% because buyers trust authenticated, encapsulated notes. For common star notes worth under $50, grading fees would exceed the added value.
What is the difference between sheet stars and pack stars?
Sheet stars are replacement notes printed on 16- or 32-subject sheets, often sold to collectors as uncut sheets. Pack stars are replacements inserted into standard 100-note packs distributed to Federal Reserve banks. Sheet star runs are typically much smaller than pack runs, making them generally rarer.
Can I find valuable star notes at my bank?
Yes. Star notes enter regular circulation through Federal Reserve banks. Ask your bank for new, uncirculated bills (especially $2 bills, which are less commonly requested). Checking bills in sequence from a bank strap gives you the best chance of finding star notes in pristine condition.
Conclusion
Star note collecting rewards knowledge and patience. The difference between a face-value star note and one worth hundreds of dollars comes down to a single factor: print run size. Learn your denomination's key rare runs, check every star note you encounter, and focus on condition.
For the best return on time invested, prioritize checking $2 stars (consistently low runs), $50 and $100 stars (high face value with premium), and Minneapolis district notes (historically smaller production). Cross-reference every find against current print run data before deciding whether to spend or save.
Want to explore more valuable currency? Check out our guides on rare serial numbers on dollar bills, error bills worth money, and rare dollar bills worth money.
Found a star note? Scan it with CashScan to instantly identify the series, denomination, and district, then look up whether your specific run is rare.
Download CashScan free on the App Store to identify any banknote instantly.
