When most people think of a dollar, they see a piece of paper worth, well, one dollar. Yet among the billions of $1 bills in circulation, a tiny fraction carries ultra‑rare serial numbers, making them worth thousands—even $15,000 or more.
Among those, a bill bearing serial number 00000001 stands at the pinnacle of numismatic rarity. This article explores why such a modest note attracts collector mania, the factors behind its value, and how to spot truly valuable currency.
What Defines a Rare Serial Number?
A serial number on U.S. currency is an eight-digit sequence printed twice on the front of each note, preceded and followed by letters. Typically, they range from 00000001 to 99999999 per letter series. Collectors prize certain patterns:
- Low serials (1–100)
- Solid serials, where all digits match (e.g., 11111111)
- Ladders, radars, and repeaters
- Star notes (replacement bills with a star instead of a suffix letter)
These patterns are rare simply due to probability and printing limits. Among them, 00000001 stands out—the first in an entire print run—which practically guarantees its uniqueness.
Serial 00000001 – The Pinnacle of Rarity
The first bill of a series is 00000001 (e.g., G00000001I for Series 2013). These are typically reserved for collectors, if released at all.
Occasionally, they slip into circulation, like the case of a Series 2013 $1 bill with serial G00000001I found in a vending machine in Parkersburg, Georgia, in late 2024.
Key points:
- Ultra-low serial: First printed note in a letter‑series run
- Collector hype: Number 1 is universally coveted
- Rarity in circulation: Such bills are almost never circulated, making any find spectacular
Reported Values and Market Prices
Estimated Value for 00000001
- Uncirculated condition: Often quoted at $15,000 or more
- Circulated condition: Still commands a premium, potentially in the $600–$15,000 range depending on condition
Expert Insight
Currency dealers often agree that an uncirculated 00000001 note could fetch $15,000+, but even a circulated example can be “pretty valuable.”
Broader Pricing Context
According to pricing guides:
- $1 solid serial notes (e.g., 11111111) in green range from $600–$1,200, up to $1,400+ uncirculated
- Single-digit serials like 00000001 typically start at $400–$900, reaching $1,500+
- Specialized collectors and online forums often quote $15,000 or more for a verified, uncirculated 00000001 note
Factors Impacting Value
Several variables influence how much a bill goes for:
| Factor | Impact on Value |
|---|---|
| Condition (Grade) | Uncirculated or near‑mint bills command higher prices. Circulated notes lose value. |
| Star or Replacement Note | Adds rarity, but may fetch slightly less than a no‑star 00000001 in mint condition. |
| Letter/Series & District | Some runs are shorter; bills from those can be more valuable. |
| Certification | Professionally graded bills (by PCGS or PMG) often sell at a premium. |
Real‑World Findings & Sales
Vending Machine Find
In December 2024, in Parkersburg, Georgia, a $1 bill with serial G00000001I was found in a vending machine. Though circulated, experts estimated its worth could still be several thousand dollars. If uncirculated, it might have exceeded $15,000.
Online Listings & Speculation
- Several auction sites have listed low-serial-number notes with starting bids above $10,000
- Media reports have noted values for a 00000001 serial bill ranging from $600 to $15,000+, depending on condition, series, and buyer interest
Why the Huge Value Spread?
- Scarcity – Only one bill per letter‑series has this serial
- Collector psychology – The number 1 has emotional and historical symbolism
- Condition sensitivity – Tens of thousands of dollars’ difference between uncirculated and well-used
- Certification trust – Graded bills attract better buyers and higher trust
- Market volatility – Prices depend on demand, media exposure, and collector competition
How to Identify & Preserve a Valuable Bill
Steps to Follow:
- Check serials: Scan for low digits like 00000001, 00000100, or solid/repeaters
- Assess condition: No tears, folds, discoloration, or fading
- Check for star note: A star symbol at the end indicates a replacement, often rare
- Get certification: Submit to PCGS or PMG for grading and encapsulation
- Store properly: Use acid-free sleeves and avoid moisture or sunlight exposure
Related Valuable Serial Patterns
- Solid Serials (e.g., 11111111–99999999): $600–$1,200
- Ladders (12345678, 87654321): $500–$1,600+
- Super Radar/Repeater patterns: Up to ~$1,300
- Star Notes: Around $2.99 to $200+, but when paired with rare serials, value increases significantly
Notable Cautionary Cases
- Duplicated serial errors from 2014/2016 print runs led to identical bills, with matching pairs fetching $6,000+
- Printing ink errors, like black serials or misalignments, can add $80–$2,000 depending on severity and note condition
- Doctored notes can be flagged and lose value—always verify authenticity
Summary Table
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| 00000001 serial | Ultra‑rare, first‑printed note of any series |
| Estimated Uncirculated Value | $15,000+ |
| Estimated Circulated Value | $600–$15,000 depending on wear and collector demand |
| Grading Importance | PCGS/PMG certification significantly boosts market value and credibility |
| Rarity Factors | Combination of serial, series, condition, and whether it’s a star note |
A $1 bill with the serial number 00000001 represents the pinnacle of collectible U.S. currency. While it may look ordinary, this tiny number elevates it to legendary status in the eyes of collectors.
Whether tucked into a vending machine, inherited in an estate, or found by chance, these bills can yield returns in the five-figure range.
To unlock its full value, the note should be well-preserved, professionally graded, and offered to the right market of enthusiastic collectors.
With growing awareness of collectible currency, the demand for unique serial numbers—especially 00000001—shows no signs of slowing down.
FAQs
1. What makes a $1 bill with serial number 00000001 so valuable?
It’s the first note printed in a series, making it one-of-a-kind. Scarcity, symbolic value, and collector demand push its price to $15,000 or more.
2. Should I get my rare serial-numbered bill graded?
Yes. Grading confirms authenticity and condition, and dramatically increases the resale value by giving buyers confidence.
3. Can circulated bills with this serial still be valuable?
Absolutely. Even with light wear, a 00000001 serial note can bring in hundreds or thousands, especially if it is certified and from a notable series.