Expert: Brad Swain - 12/19/2009

Question
My husband and I are side-searchers for star notes and we found our first one today! I'm not sure what information is needed, so I'll give it all. It is in fine to very fine condition. Only a couple vertical folds and one small "pinhole" tear on the side. Corners very slighlty rounded. It is a $20 bill with serial number EC 00127188, 2004 circulation (no "A") C3 under top left serial number. B1 in bottom left corner and B6 in top right. I'm wondering how much it's worth. I found a site that said there was only 640,000 put in circulation, possibly 320,000. Basically, the site said it was rare. I don't know how true that was. My husband would like more information on worth and finding a buyer, if it's worth it.

Answer
Hi Jessica, Star note definition: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_note .
When notes are discovered that have been printed incorrectly (such as having the serial numbers upside down, etc.) these misprinted notes (error notes) are replaced with star notes because no two bills can be produced with the same serial number.
Collector value of a note depends on date, series letter or signature and condition, including amount of wear, any folds, tears or stains as well as collector demand. It is so new that it may have no significant value above face value especially with any wear.
U.S. small size paper money values:
http://coinsite.com/html/uspapermoneyprices(sm).asp
and
http://www.bestcoin.com/U-S-Currency-FAQ-Values.htm
Brad