In a remarkable discovery, a woman from Vermont unearthed a rare $2 bill hidden inside an old leather-bound diary from her childhood. What seemed like a simple keepsake quickly revealed itself as an extraordinary piece of currency history — one that experts are now calling “one of a kind.”
A Treasure Among Memories
While sorting through her late grandmother’s belongings, the woman—who prefers to stay anonymous—came across her own diary from the 1990s. Between the carefully pressed, yellowing pages, she found a crisp $2 bill dated 1890. Initially, she assumed it was just a novelty or an old souvenir. But a closer examination uncovered a hidden gem.
What Makes This $2 Bill Special?
Unlike many people think, $2 bills have never been officially discontinued, but older versions—especially those printed before 1928—are exceedingly rare. This particular bill features a vivid red seal, intricate designs, and the portrait of Thomas Jefferson. However, what truly sets it apart is a rare printing anomaly that experts describe as “irregular but authentic.”
Numismatist Daniel Fletcher, who examined the bill, explains, “It’s an 1890 Series Treasury Note with a slight misalignment in the serial number, combined with near-perfect preservation. Bills like this rarely surface outside of elite collections.”
Value That Could Rewrite History
Generally, $2 bills from the 1800s can fetch anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on their condition and rarity. But bills with printing errors or unique historical backgrounds can command much higher prices.
Fletcher adds, “This piece is museum-worthy. Its paper quality, ink sharpness, and flawless condition make it stand out in the numismatic world.”
Early estimates from collectors suggest the bill could sell for up to $20,000, especially if auctioned through a prestigious dealer or platform.
An Accidental Discovery With Emotional Value
For the woman who found it, the value was never just financial. “My grandfather gave me this bill when I was about 10, telling me it was special and to keep it safe,” she shared. “I never imagined it would be worth anything.”
Authenticated by a third-party grading service, experts recommend she store the bill in a controlled environment to maintain its pristine condition while she decides whether to keep it, donate it, or sell it at auction.
Why $2 Bills Are Fascinating
The $2 bill has long held a curious place in American currency. Often mistaken as rare or fake, these bills are still printed today in small quantities by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Their uncommon use only adds to their mystique.
The bill found in this diary is especially significant because it predates the Federal Reserve era, belonging to the “Treasury Notes” family—notes directly issued by the U.S. Treasury in the late 19th century to fund government operations.
Final Thoughts
This story is a powerful reminder that history often hides in the most personal places—old journals, drawers, and keepsakes. With inflation rising and more Americans exploring collectibles and alternative investments, rare currency discoveries like this continue to capture fresh interest.
For collectors, the allure isn’t just about the price — it’s about the story, rarity, and exceptional condition. In this case, one small $2 bill perfectly embodies all three.