In a baffling twist in the world of currency errors, a Series 2013B $1 star note—printed twice due to a serial-number mishap at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP)—found its rightful spotlight when one complete matched pair sold for an astonishing $27,000.
This article dives deep into the how, why, and what behind this rare find, providing collectors and enthusiasts with every fact, figure, and detail about this awe-inspiring event.
What Exactly Happened?
- Printing Error: In 2014 and again in 2016, the BEP mistakenly printed duplicate serial numbers on Series 2013B Federal Reserve Notes for the New York “B” District.
- Twin Star Notes: These are known as duplicate star notes because the serial ends with a star (*) and was printed at two different facilities—Washington, D.C. and Fort Worth, Texas.
- Millions Issued: Reporting indicates around 6.4 to 6.65 million of these bills were mistakenly printed.
What Makes the Note So Valuable?
1. Rarity of Matched Pairs
Although millions of halves exist, only 9–12 matched pairs have been discovered and confirmed.
2. Collector Demand
Even single halves trade at $25–100, but matched pairs fetch $20,000–150,000+, depending on condition.
3. Grading Impact
Professional grading, like PMG or PCGS, can significantly increase value. One example pair graded VF‑30 and UNC‑67 sold for $25,000, and secured $27,000 after grading and auction fees.
Recent $27,000 Sale: Key Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Sale | October 9, 2022 |
| Method | Verified sale via auction/eBay |
| Condition Grades | PMG graded: one VF 30, the other UNC 67 |
| Sale Price (Hammer) | $25,000 |
| Final Sale Price | $27,000 (post fees, premium) |
| Serial Number | Same serial printed twice, ending with a star (exact number unspecific) |
| Printing Locations | One from Washington D.C., one from Fort Worth |
How to Identify Such a Bill
To spot your own potential duplicate-star note, look for:
- Series Date: “Series 2013”
- Federal Reserve Seal: Letter B (New York)
- Serial Numbers: Ending with ★ and within the ranges:
- B00000001★–B00250000★
- B03200001★–B09600000★
If both halves surface, you’re in possession of a true matched pair error—that’s where the value truly skyrockets.
Historical Notables & Sales
- 2021 Auction: One matched pair sold via Stack’s Bowers for $7,200 and later resold for $9,300.
- $25,000 eBay Sale: The matched pair graded VF/UNC sold for $25,000 before grading added value to $27,000.
Why the Figures Vary So Much
- Condition (Grade): From Very Fine to Gem Uncirculated—grading dramatically impacts price
- Tracking Difficulty: Millions printed, but matching halves is like finding a needle in a haystack
- Market Fluctuation: Buyer interest, auction venue, and presentation (e.g., retail listing vs. dealer sale) lead to varying results
What If You Have One?
- Examine your $1 bills—especially those from 2014–2016 with the telltale star serials.
- Check databases like Project 2013B or collector forums to see if your serial is already listed.
- Locate its match—through forums or social media within the collecting community.
- Get them graded by PMG or PCGS to maximize auction or sale value.
- Sell smartly—matched and graded pairs are where serious money is made.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Years of Error | 2014 and 2016 printings of Series 2013B |
| Affected Run | Fed District B (New York) star notes |
| Copies Issued | ≈ 6.4 – 6.65 million |
| Matched Pairs Found | Only 9–12 confirmed |
| Single Note Value | $25–100+ (depending on condition) |
| Matched Pair Value Range | $20,000–150,000+ (condition-dependent) |
| Recent High Sale | $27,000 for a graded VF/UNC matched pair |
A matched pair of 2013B $1 star notes is today’s Holy Grail in modern currency errors. With millions printed in error, yet only a handful of pairs recovered, these bills remain exceptionally rare.
The verified sale of a pair for $27,000—with grades VF 30 and UNC 67—is a testament to their enormous collector value. If you hold a single half, don’t toss it; it might just be part of the next big find.
FAQs
Q1: Can I profit from a single half-star note?
Yes—single halves typically sell for $25–100+, based on rarity and condition, even without a match.
Q2: How can I confirm if my serial is already claimed?
Check resources like Project 2013B, collector forums, or currency collector communities for serial listings.
Q3: Do I need professional grading?
To maximize value—especially for matched pairs—yes. High grades (like UNC 67) can be the difference between $25,000 and $50,000+.