Expert: Ronald Fern - 2/10/2011

Question
QUESTION: I have a sheet of 16 $2 star notes in mint condition series 1976. I'm interested in knowing the value of them at this time. Sincerely,
Edwin Mann

ANSWER: Hi Edwin:

Thanks for your question. I've answered one like this before. Collector value of these notes depends on date, series and condition, including amount of wear, any folds, tears or stains as well as collector demand. Your star notes, which are replacements for damaged or error notes, should be worth a premium to an interested collector. You do not mention what Federal Reserve Branch your notes are from. Your notes likely have a retail value of between $200 to $300 to an interested collector.

There is one buy now offer for sixteen uncut star notes from Cleveland for $309.00. See: http://cgi.ebay.com/1976-2-CLEVELAND-OHIO-16-NOTE-STAR-UNCUT-SHEET-/150554600393

I found a current listing on eBay for sixteen uncut 1976 "H" star notes with 3 bids. It currently is at $61 and has over four days to closing. See: http://cgi.ebay.com/sheet-16-uncut-2-Dollar-Bills-1976-Series-Star-Notes-/350437

I did find one completed sale from Boston for sixteen 1976 2 dollar uncut notes that closed on Jan., 25 for $199.99.

For more information on the value of your notes, see U.S. paper money value estimates: http://coinsite.com/

Here's a link for currency grading: http://www.cganotes.com/

Here's a link with information on FRN's: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Reserve_Note
Here's a link for $2 bills: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_two-dollar_bill

You may want to check US currency listings under two dollar notes on eBay from time to time to see what this type of item brings.

If you live near a coin shop, I'd suggest you let them look at the notes. Most dealers will offer an opinion as to the value at no charge.
Should you decide to sell your bills to a dealer, remember they will offer about 50% to 60% of the retail value. You should always get two or more estimates, and try and deal with PNG (Professional Numismatists Guild) dealers when possible. I'll list the link for you to check dealers near you.

To find a PNG dealer, see Link: http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php

Please remember to go to the experts site to rate this answer. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck in your collecting.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Since my $2 banknotes have never been folded or have a crease I was of the opinion that they would be worth more, plus they are 1976 star notes and are crisp. Sincerely, Edwin Mann

Answer
Edwin:

I quoted you prices for crisp uncirculated 1976 star notes. The price of $199.99 was for a sheet like yours from Boston. Others sheets of 16 star notes like yours have sold for as much as $309.00 or as little as $99.00. There was one offering of 16 uncut star notes with a reserve $759.99 that went unsold. I never said your notes were circulated or creased. I said that circulated or creased notes would be worth less. Market and collector demand establish value. I stand firm that your notes would likely bring between $200 and $300 to an interested collector.

Thanks again, and continued Good Luck in your collecting.