In a stunning discovery that has amazed both locals and currency collectors, a $10 bill left as a tip at a small café in Vermont has been identified as an exceptionally rare and valuable piece of American history—estimated to be worth $1.5 million.
How an Ordinary Tip Turned Into an Extraordinary Find
The discovery happened last week when Hannah Myers, a 23-year-old café employee, was clearing out the tip jar. One bill caught her attention. “It just felt old and different,” Hannah recalled. “I don’t know much about collecting money, but the texture and design stood out to me.”
Following a bit of research at home, Hannah took the bill to a local numismatist, an expert in rare currency. The specialist quickly identified it as a 1933 $10 Silver Certificate—a bill never officially circulated and believed to have been destroyed shortly after printing. With fewer than 10 known to exist, this bill ranks among the rarest modern U.S. currency.
A Remarkable Find in an Unexpected Place
Rare currency discoveries usually happen in estates, auctions, or specialized collections. But finding a $1.5 million bill in a tip jar is nearly unheard of. Experts suggest the bill might have come from a private collection unknowingly broken up, or from family members spending inherited bills without realizing their worth.
Robert Ellsworth, a Boston-based currency appraiser, said, “This is one of the most incredible finds of the past decade—not only because of the bill but the setting. A small-town café tip jar? It’s the kind of story you don’t see every day.”
What Makes the 1933 $10 Silver Certificate So Valuable?
This bill belongs to a series of Silver Certificates issued in the early 20th century, which could once be exchanged for silver coins. The 1933 issue was withdrawn almost immediately due to major federal monetary changes during the Great Depression, and most were destroyed.
Only a handful escaped destruction, making them extremely rare. Bills in good condition from this series often command six- or seven-figure prices at auction, especially if they bear unique serial numbers and the iconic blue seal.
Ellsworth explained, “This particular bill features an uncirculated design, a rare serial number prefix, and the distinctive blue seal. Though not mint condition, it is preserved well enough to carry significant collector and historical value.”
What Happens Next with This Rare Bill?
Hannah has handed the bill over to a certified auction house for professional authentication and sale. Since it was legally received as a tip and shows no signs of theft or fraud, ownership is expected to be clear.
Auction experts estimate the bill could bring between $1.2 million and $1.5 million depending on bidder interest. The auction is planned for later this year, and excitement is building among collectors nationwide.
Hannah shared her thoughts: “I’m still in shock. I was just planning to use the tip money for gas. I never imagined one bill could change my life.”
Why You Should Always Check Your Cash
This extraordinary story serves as a reminder that rare and valuable bills and coins still circulate quietly in everyday transactions. With millions of exchanges happening daily, there’s always a chance that something special might be hiding in plain sight.
Numismatists advise people to watch for unusual colors, serial numbers, seals, and print years on older bills. While the odds are slim, stories like this prove that hidden treasures can still be found.