Expert: Ronald Fern - 1/30/2010

Question
Hello there, I have 2 small silver certificates and 1 large one.
first one is Hawaii 1935A One Dollar Silver Certificate signed by Henry Morgenthau and can't understand the other name, serial number is C05114408C.
second one is 1957B One Dollar Silver Certificate signed by Kathryn Rosslaw????  and C. Douglas Dillon Serial number is R57941346A
lastly, the large silver certificate, no issue date or anything, serial number is T54000996A, signed by Spellman and White.  H2226

Could you please let me know if any of these items have any value.  Thank u so much.

Answer
Hi Jeanne:

Thanks for your question.

As with coins, condition is critical in establishing the true value of your bills. All I can do is to estimate their approximate worth. The serial numbers have no bearing as to value unless they are a low number, unusual number, or a replacement (*) star note. Your bills should be evaluated by either ANA or PNG dealers. Most will offer opinions free of charge. Here's a link to find one in your area:  http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php

A recent issue of "Paper Money Values" shows your Hawaii 1935A $1 Silver Certificate in very good condition to have a retail value of $32 and $65 in extra fine condition. The 1957B bill has a value of $2 in very good condition.  An extra fine note has a value of $3.50. Your 1923 Spellman and White large Silver Certificate in very good condition has a retail value of $35 and $65 in extra fine condition. The 1923 Silver Certificate is one of the most popular paper notes. All United States Currency that was minted before 1928 is larger than that of a modern paper bill - approximately one-half inch wider and over one inch longer.

Remember, should you decide to sell your notes to get at least two estimates from established currency dealers. You can find them listed at link: http://www.rarecurrency.net/ Dealers will normally pay 50% to 60% of retail for notes they are interested in.

For determining the grade of your notes as well as some other interesting facts on paper money, see link: http://www.littletoncoin.com/LCC/html/features/pdf/How_to_Collect_Paper_Money.pd...

For more information on currency, see links: http://www.secretservice.gov/money_characteristics.shtml
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_one-dollar_bill

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Thank You and Good Luck in your collecting.