The 2013 $1 “B*” star notes have an interesting twist for collectors: duplicate serial numbers. For those who don’t know, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing made a rare mistake, printing 6.65 million $1 Federal Reserve Bank of New York (“B”) star note serial numbers twice in these ranges: B 0000 0001 * – B 0025 0000 * and B 0320 0001 – B 0960 0000 *.
This has led to a fascinating collecting challenge: finding pairs of notes with identical serial numbers, often referred to as “Twins.”
What is the Value of a Twin Pair?
As print errors, Twin pairs are extremely rare and thus highly sought after by collectors and investors. The lower amount of the pairs in existence greatly contributes to their value.
Few finds: As of early 2022, only a dozen Twin pairs have been found and reunited.
Public Auction History: One pair has appeared in two public auctions, bringing $7,200 in August 2021 at Stacks & Bowers and then $9,300 in March 2022 at eBay.
Value Potential: Two sales do not constitute a market value, but a good condition Twin pair should bring several thousand dollars.
This unique error has turned these otherwise mundane $1 bills into highly collectible treasures, driving collectors on a thrilling quest to uncover these elusive “Twins.”