While still in circulation today, it’s not everyday you see someone pull out a $2 bill when you’re out shopping. However, if you’re one of the people still carrying around a $2 bill in your wallet or it’s simply lying around, you might want to store it somewhere safe!
Certain $2 bills are selling for upwards of $4,500 on the collectibles market, according to the U.S. Currency Auctions (USCA) website. Someone in possession of an uncirculated 1890 bill could make $4,500 or more, and those who have an original $2 from 1862 could make at least $2,800 for theirs. Don’t lose hope if you own a more recent bill — even ones from 2003 have sold for over $900!
Other $2 bills might simply be worth $2 and some change, so just because you may have one in your wallet, doesn’t guarantee you’ll make hundreds or even thousands from it. A bill’s value is determined by several factors, including the time it was printed, seal color and whether it was uncirculated. This means it has never been used to pay for something, leaving it in the same exact condition as when it was produced.
While it may not seem as common in everyday life, the $2 bill is still being printed. It was first issued in 1862, featuring a portrait of Alexander Hamilton until the bill underwent a transformation in 1869 with Thomas Jefferson’s face. After a failed attempt by the U.S. Treasury to publicize the $2 in the early 20th century, the government had to halt printing the bill for some time. But by 1976, they were reintroduced into circulation.
Other factors on the bill, like unique serial numbers or a misprint, can make it worth more than its $2 value, even if it’s uncirculated. If you’re wondering if your $2 bill is worth something, it’s recommended you get an evaluation from a verified coin expert.