What Is a Star Note?
If you've ever looked closely at a dollar bill and noticed a small star at the end of its serial number, you may have wondered what it means.
A star note is a replacement banknote printed by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing to replace a bill that was damaged or misprinted during production. Instead of reusing the original serial number, the replacement note receives a new serial number ending with a star (*).
Because fewer star notes are printed than regular notes, many collectors enjoy searching for them in everyday circulation.
Why Are Star Notes Made?
During the printing process, some banknotes become damaged or fail quality inspections. Rather than allowing a duplicate serial number to enter circulation, the damaged bill is destroyed and replaced with a specially printed replacement note.
The star at the end of the serial number identifies the bill as a replacement.
For example:
Regular note: AB12345678C
Star note: AB12345678★
The star serves as a simple way to distinguish replacement notes from standard bills.
Are Star Notes Rare?
Not every star note is rare.
Millions of star notes have been printed over the years, but they are produced in much smaller quantities than regular banknotes. Their rarity depends on factors such as:
Print run size
Denomination
Series year
Federal Reserve district
Overall condition
Some star notes are only worth their face value, while others can be worth significantly more to collectors.
How Can You Tell if You Have a Star Note?
The easiest way is to examine the serial number.
If the final character is a star (★) instead of a letter, you have a star note.
You'll find the serial number printed twice on the front of every modern U.S. banknote.
Are Star Notes Worth More Than Face Value?
Sometimes.
Many circulated star notes are worth only their face value. However, collectors may pay premiums for notes that are:
From small print runs
In uncirculated condition
Older series
High denominations
Low serial numbers
Fancy serial numbers
A combination of these factors can make a star note especially desirable.
Should You Keep a Star Note?
Many collectors choose to save every star note they find because they are less common than standard bills.
Even if a particular note isn't especially valuable today, collecting star notes is an enjoyable way to learn more about U.S. paper currency and build a collection from everyday change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the star on a dollar bill mean?
It indicates the note is a replacement bill printed to replace one that was damaged or defective during production.
Are all star notes valuable?
No. While some star notes command premiums, many are worth only their face value.
Can I spend a star note?
Yes. Star notes are legal tender and can be spent just like any other U.S. banknote.
How do I know if my star note is rare?
Collectors consider the print run, series year, denomination, condition, and serial number when determining rarity and value.