I found a duplicate star note what is it worth?

Have you ever stumbled upon a pair of seemingly identical banknotes with the same serial number and that tell-tale asterisk (*) marking them as star notes? This isn’t a printing error you encounter every day! If you find yourself holding a duplicate star note, you might be wondering: what exactly is it, and what’s it worth?

Understanding Duplicate Star Notes:

While regular star notes are already uncommon, finding a duplicate – two notes with the same serial number and star designation – is significantly rarer. These occur when printing errors happen at two different Federal Reserve Banks (FRBs) within the same series and denomination.

Are They Valuable?

The answer is a complex “it depends.” Unlike regular star notes, individual duplicate notes themselves don’t possess significantly higher inherent value compared to a single star note of the same series and condition. Their rarity doesn’t translate to a guaranteed jump in individual value.

However, where the real value lies is in completing a matched pair. When you reunite a duplicate pair, meaning you possess both notes printed with the same serial number from different FRBs, the story changes. These matched pairs can be highly sought-after by collectors, potentially fetching thousands of dollars depending on specific factors like:

• Series and denomination: Certain series and denominations naturally garner more interest among collectors, influencing the potential value of the matched pair.
• Condition: As with any collectible, the condition of both notes significantly impacts their combined value. Pristine uncirculated pairs naturally command a higher price than worn or damaged ones.
• Market demand: The overall market demand for matched pairs within a specific series and denomination ultimately dictates their selling price.

So, What Should You Do?

If you find a duplicate star note, here’s what you can do:

• Research: Use online resources and consult reputable coin and currency dealers to understand the series, denomination, and potential value of your individual note.
• Seek professional appraisal: If you suspect you might have a matched pair, consider seeking a professional appraisal from a reputable coin and currency dealer to confirm its authenticity and assess its potential value as part of a pair.
• Connect with collectors’ communities: Online forums and communities dedicated to coin and currency collecting can provide valuable insights and potentially connect you with other collectors interested in matched pairs.

Remember, the thrill of discovery and the unique story behind your duplicate star note are valuable in themselves.
While the individual note may not hold significant inherent value, the potential of finding its missing counterpart and completing a matched pair can be a truly exciting adventure in the world of collecting!