What if the next $5 bill you receive at the gas station could be worth tens of thousands of dollars? That’s the case with a rare $5 star note that has stunned collectors by fetching up to $60,000 at auction. Even more surprising — it’s still potentially out there in circulation.
This discovery is sparking a fresh wave of interest in paper money collecting and encouraging Americans to look a little closer at the cash in their wallets.
What Is a Star Note?
Star notes are special replacement banknotes issued by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). If a bill is damaged or misprinted during production, it’s replaced with a note that includes a star symbol (★) at the end of its serial number, rather than a standard letter.
Because they’re printed in limited quantities, star notes are far rarer than regular currency. Their scarcity makes them highly collectible — and in rare cases, extremely valuable.
Example: A typical serial number might read IB00000001★ instead of ending with a letter like “A.”
Why This $5 Star Note Is Drawing Big Money
Not all star notes are created equal. The $5 bill getting the most attention comes from the 2006 series and was printed in extremely limited quantities at the Fort Worth, Texas facility.
Some print runs included as few as 640,000 notes — a tiny number in the world of U.S. currency. Combine that with other rarity factors like low serial numbers or perfect centering, and it’s easy to see why collectors are willing to pay top dollar.
One near-perfect specimen with a low serial number and uncirculated condition recently sold for $60,000 in a private deal. Even circulated versions from rare batches can bring in hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Where Could You Find One?
Here’s the best part: These notes are still in circulation.
Unlike collectible coins or outdated bills, star notes aren’t pulled from the money supply. That means your next $5 bill could be hiding this tiny but valuable detail. Most people never notice the star, so rare notes could be exchanged and spent without a second thought.
How to Spot a $5 Star Note
If you’re ready to go hunting through your wallet, here’s what to look for:
- Star symbol (★) at the end of the serial number
- Series year — notes from 2003, 2006, or earlier tend to be the most valuable
- Low serial numbers like 00000001, or interesting patterns (repeating digits, palindromes)
- Crisp condition — uncirculated bills are worth more than worn ones
You can also use a star note lookup tool online to verify how rare your bill is. Collectors and appraisal experts can offer further insight into its value.
What to Do If You Find One
Don’t rush to deposit or spend it. If you think you’ve found a rare $5 star note, take these steps:
- Store it in a protective sleeve to avoid damage
- Avoid folding, creasing, or cleaning the bill
- Have it evaluated by a certified currency appraiser or a reputable auction house
Even if your note isn’t worth tens of thousands, it could still be worth $50 to $1,000 — not bad for something you found in your change.
Why This Matters in the Digital Age
With digital wallets and credit cards becoming the norm, fewer people are paying attention to physical money. But this $5 star note proves that hidden treasures still exist — often in plain sight.
Rare currency collecting isn’t just for specialists. Everyday people are making incredible discoveries simply by paying attention to the details on their cash.
Final Thoughts: Keep an Eye on Your Bills
This surprising story of a $60,000 $5 star note is a reminder that even small denominations can carry big value. Whether you’re a casual spender or a curious collector, it’s worth taking a closer look at your next $5 bill.
The next time you receive change, pause before you tuck it away. That small star next to the serial number could mean you’re holding a rare piece of American currency history.