If you’ve got a stack of $20 bills, you might be holding more than face value.
A small number of printing errors (misprints) and fancy serial numbers transform ordinary notes into collectibles worth hundreds to six figures.
Here’s a clear, up-to-date guide to help you spot winners fast and avoid handing a jackpot back into circulation.
What Counts As A $20 “Misprint”
Misprints are production mistakes that slip past quality checks at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
Desirable examples include mismatched serial numbers, misaligned or shifted overprints, fold-overs/gutter folds, and bold offset prints where designs transfer to the wrong side. Dramatic, obvious major errors command the strongest prices—especially on crisp, uncirculated notes.
Fancy Serials That Collectors Love
Even without errors, certain serial number patterns add value. Popular types include solids (e.g., 77777777), radars (palindromes like 12344321), repeaters (12121212), ladders (01234567 or 76543210), low numbers (00000001–00000100), star notes, and birthday numbers (e.g., 19991231). Condition still matters—a high-grade fancy serial is typically worth more than the same pattern in worn condition.
How To Check Your $20s Like A Pro
- Scan The Serials: Confirm both serials match and look for patterns (radar, repeater, ladder, solid, birthday).
- Inspect Overprints: Examine the green seal and serial placements for obvious shifts or duplication.
- Look For Physical Error Signs: Ghost images, ink where it shouldn’t be, or designs printed across a fold.
- Evaluate Condition: Crisp, uncirculated notes generally bring stronger money.
- Consider Grading: Third-party authentication and grading can boost buyer confidence and auction results.
Quick Value Snapshot (Examples & Typical Ranges)
Actual prices vary by severity, grade, and demand.
| Type | What To Look For | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Spectacular Object-Ink Error | Foreign item in print (e.g., sticker under overprint) | Five to six figures for headline examples |
| Mismatched Serials | Two serials on the same note don’t match | Hundreds to $1,000+ in higher grades |
| Shifted Overprints | Seal/serial noticeably out of place | $200–$500+, more if dramatic |
| Offset Printing / Fold-Over | Ink transfer or design printed over a fold | $100–$400+, higher if bold |
| Fancy Serials (Solids/Radars/Repeaters/Ladders) | 77777777, 12211221, 01234567, etc. | Small premium to four figures when pristine |
Selling Strategy And Safeguards
For standout candidates, choose professional grading to authenticate, preserve condition, and unlock best pricing.
Then list via a specialist currency auction or reputable marketplace with clear, high-resolution photos, accurate descriptions, and any grading details.
If you have multiples, sell the best first to set a strong benchmark, then place remaining notes after interest builds.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Cleaning Or Flattening: Pressing, washing, or ironing a note can destroy value.
- Overhandling: Use clean, dry hands or soft sleeves to prevent new creases.
- Rushing To Sell: Compare similar sales, check population reports, and time your listing for maximum visibility.
Your next $20 bill could be far more than spending money.
By focusing on major misprints, scanning for premium serial patterns, and protecting condition with proper handling and grading, you can turn an everyday find into a serious collectible.
Stay patient, verify what you have, and use smart selling channels to capture the best price.
FAQs
Are Star Notes Automatically Valuable?
Not always. Some star notes are common. Higher value appears when print runs are small, the note is high grade, or the serial is also fancy.
Can I Still Find These In Circulation?
Yes. Collectors routinely pull modern errors and fancy serials from ATM withdrawals and cash-heavy businesses. Regular checking pays off.
What Increases Value The Most—Error Or Serial?
The biggest premiums usually come from spectacular errors or exceptional serials in uncirculated condition. Combine both, and values can jump significantly.