As an avid currency collector, I‘m always on the hunt for special bills that hold extra value. While most people overlook $2 bills, thinking they‘re too modern to be collectible, I know certain varieties from the 2003 series can sell for five figures in pristine condition. In over 30 years of collecting, I‘ve studied these bills closely and discovered the key attributes that make them valuable.
In this in-depth guide, I‘ll share that knowledge to help you identify 2003 $2 bills worth far more than face value. We‘ll examine the history that makes $2 bills special, the specific 2003 series varieties to look for, how condition and serial numbers affect value, and where you can find these hidden gems. Whether you‘re an experienced collector or just starting out, this advice will put you on the path to building a valuable $2 bill collection.
The Fascinating History of $2 Bills
$2 bills have a unique story that adds to their collecting appeal. The denomination was first issued in 1862 as Legal Tender Notes to help finance the Civil War. However, $2 bills never gained wide acceptance. Many considered them unlucky since they were often used for gambling and bribes.
The Treasury Department stopped printing $2 bills in 1966 due to lack of demand. Ten years later, as the United States approached its Bicentennial celebration, the $2 bill was redesigned and reissued as a Federal Reserve Note on April 13, 1976, Thomas Jefferson‘s birthday.
The new 1976 $2 bill featured a portrait of Jefferson on the front and the famous painting Declaration of Independence on the back. Collectors snapped them up, hoping to preserve a piece of history. However, $2 bills once again failed to circulate widely, making up less than 1% of all U.S. currency produced.
Since 1976, $2 bills have only been printed in series 1995, 2003, 2003A, 2009, and 2013 in relatively small quantities compared to other denominations:
| Series | Print Run |
|---|---|
| 1976 | 590,720,000 |
| 1995 | 153,600,000 |
| 2003 | 230,400,000 |
| 2003A | 121,600,000 |
| 2009 | 230,400,000 |
| 2013 | 179,200,000 |
In total, just over 1.5 billion $2 bills have been printed since 1976, representing less than 0.1% of the 41.6 billion total Federal Reserve Notes printed in that time. Today, there are around 1.2 billion $2 bills in circulation, but most are held by collectors or unused in sock drawers. Their scarcity in daily use adds to their collecting appeal.
2003 $2 Bill Varieties
With that background, let‘s focus on the 2003 series of $2 bills that includes some of the most valuable modern varieties. In 2003, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) issued two different signature combinations for $2 bills:
-
Series 2003 – Features the signatures of Treasury Secretary John W. Snow and Treasurer Rosario Marin. Printed for all 12 Federal Reserve Districts.
-
Series 2003A – Features the signatures of Treasury Secretary John W. Snow and new Treasurer Anna Escobedo Cabral. Printed in smaller quantities only for certain districts.
To identify the series, look for "Series 2003" or "Series 2003A" printed under the portrait of Jefferson on the front of the bill. The two-letter prefix before the serial number identifies the Federal Reserve District, such as "B" for New York or "L" for San Francisco.
Within each series are three varieties based on serial numbers and seals:
-
Notes – Regular bills with green seals and serial numbers printed for circulation. The most common variety.
-
Star Notes – Replacement bills printed to replace misprinted currency. Identified by a star symbol * at the beginning or end of the serial number. Usually more valuable due to lower printing.
-
Low Serial Numbers – The first bills printed for each series featuring low serial numbers starting with 00000001. Highly sought after by collectors since so few are printed.
The different districts, series, and varieties all affect the rarity and collectible value of 2003 $2 bills. For example, star notes from the 2003A series are much scarcer than regular 2003 notes. Certain districts like Minneapolis and St. Louis also issued far fewer notes than districts like New York and Atlanta.
2003 $2 Bill Value Chart
Most 2003 $2 bills are still only worth their face value of $2. However, collectors will pay significant premiums for certain varieties depending on their condition, serial numbers, and rarity. Here‘s a chart breaking down the values for different 2003 $2 bills in varying conditions:
| Series/Variety | Fine | Very Fine | Uncirculated | MS 63 | MS 65 | MS 67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 Regular Note | $2 | $2 | $5 | $10 | $20 | $40 |
| 2003 Star Note | $5 | $10 | $25 | $50 | $100 | $300 |
| 2003 Low Serial Number | $10 | $20 | $50 | $100 | $300 | $600 |
| 2003A Regular Note | $2 | $5 | $10 | $20 | $50 | $100 |
| 2003A Star Note | $10 | $25 | $75 | $150 | $400 | $1,000 |
| 2003A Low Serial Number | $20 | $50 | $150 | $300 | $600 | $2,000+ |
| Minneapolis Star Note | $20 | $50 | $200 | $400 | $1,000 | $5,000+ |
| St. Louis Star Note | $25 | $75 | $300 | $500 | $2,000 | $5,000+ |
| Rare Serial Number | $50 | $100 | $500 | $1,000 | $2,500 | $10,000+ |
The values represent what a collector could expect to pay for a particular note in the specified condition. Uncirculated grades of MS 63 or higher represent notes that show no signs of wear or use. The "Rare Serial Number" category includes solid, radar, repeater, and other special low serial numbers that collectors covet.
As you can see, star notes and low serial numbers from the scarcer 2003A series carry substantial premiums. A 2003A star note from the Minneapolis district in gem uncirculated MS 67 grade could bring $5,000 or more! Even some regular 2003A notes can be worth hundreds in pristine condition.
Of course, these are only estimated values based on recent auction prices. Ultimately, like all collectibles, a note is worth what someone will pay for it. But this gives you a general idea of the value spread for different 2003 $2 bills.
Expert Tips for Collecting 2003 $2 Bills
As a long-time collector, I‘ve learned some valuable lessons for building a top-notch $2 bill collection. Here are my expert tips:
-
Focus on condition – Most collectors care more about condition than age for modern bills like 2003 $2s. Aim for pristine uncirculated condition to maximize value. Store bills properly in acid-free holders.
-
Understand rarity – Not all 2003 $2 bills are created equal! Study which series, varieties, and districts are scarcer. Generally, star notes, 2003A series, and districts like Minneapolis are much rarer than regular 2003 notes from districts like New York.
-
Seek special serial numbers – Solid, radar, repeater, and other "fancy" serial numbers add collecting value. Use online resources to learn about different special numbers. Low 5-digit serials are a great entry point.
-
Get bills graded – For uncirculated notes, consider professional grading by PCGS Currency or PMG. Graded notes in sealed holders are easier to value and sell. Be selective though since grading can cost $30+/note.
-
Be patient – Building a complete set of 2003 $2 bills from every district and variety can take years. Enjoy the "thrill of the hunt" searching for the ones you need. Over time, you‘ll find the best notes at the right price.
-
Network with other collectors – Join collecting forums and clubs to connect with other $2 bill collectors. They‘re a great source for trading duplicates and learning which notes are truly special. Build relationships with trusted dealers.
-
Educate yourself constantly – Read numismatic publications, websites, and price guides to stay up-to-date on the market. Knowledge is power in this hobby! The more you learn about $2 bills, the better you can identify valuable ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
To wrap up, let me address some common questions I get about collecting 2003 $2 bills:
Q: Can I get 2003 $2 bills from my bank?
A: It‘s possible but unlikely. Most banks only stock modern $2 bills if customers request them. You can always ask your bank if they have any 2003 $2 bills on hand or can order them. But you‘re more likely to find collectible varieties from dealers.
Q: Where else should I look for valuable 2003 $2 bills?
A: Check your pocket change, search the inventories of trusted currency dealers, visit coin shows, and browse online marketplaces like eBay. Some collectors sell duplicates from their collections. Be patient and persistent!
Q: How do I safely store 2003 $2 bills?
A: Modern uncirculated bills are susceptible to oils, acids, and environmental damage. Store them in acid-free plastic currency sleeves or rigid holders in a cool, dry place. Avoid PVC holders that can cause damage. For bulk quantities, use archival-quality currency albums or boxes.
Q: Is it worth getting 2003 star notes graded?
A: For scarcer uncirculated star notes, absolutely. Grading authenticates them and certifies their condition, usually increasing value. Circulated or common star notes may not be worth grading costs. Research selling prices for similar graded notes to decide.
Q: What‘s a realistic collecting goal for 2003 $2 bills?
A: Building a complete set of 24 notes – one star note and one regular note from each of the 12 districts – is a good starting goal. Expand to collecting different series, block letters, special serial numbers, and errors/misprints. The beauty is making your collection your own!
I hope this guide gives you valuable information to start or grow a collection of 2003 $2 bills. At the end of the day, collect what you love and have fun. The joy of this hobby is always learning something new. Who knows? Maybe you‘ll find that gem star note worth thousands in your pocket change tomorrow!
Happy collecting!
