Expert: Ronald Fern - 6/29/2011

Question
I have a 100 bill-it has a red seal and a star next to the series 00005134A it is also dated 1966-it also has Washington DC-it is in good condition-slightly circulated-United States Note

I also have a 100 bill that is 1934-appears to have been circulated more than the other-F02548250 A   Federal Reserve Note  green seal
Are either worth more than 100 dollars?

Answer
Hi Anna:

Thanks for the opportunity to answer your question.  

A star note is a United States bank note that has an asterisk (*), or star, after the serial number. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing inspects currency for printing errors prior to releasing notes into general circulation. When notes are discovered that have been printed incorrectly (such as having the serial numbers upside down, etc.) the misprinted "error notes" are replaced with star notes because no two bills within a certain series can be produced with the same serial number. They are used to maintain a correct count of notes in a serial number run. By their nature, star notes are more scarce than notes with standard serial numbers and as such are widely collected by hobbyists.

Your serial number on the star note is rather low, and may add to the value. It is difficult to give you an exact answer without a photo (none came with the question), or the condition of the notes. Condition is very important in establishing the value of your notes.

Your 1966 $100 star (*) note would have an approximate retail value of about $285 to $750 in Very Good to Extra Fine condition to an interested collector. Some of the early series notes (1928 and 1934) do carry a small premium, although for circulated notes this premium is small, usually 10% to 30%, so your circulated bill may bring from $110 to $130 from an interested collector.

Link for history of the $100 bill: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_one_hundred-dollar_bill

You may want to check US coins and currency listings on eBay from time to time to see if your notes are listed what these type of items may bring.

If you live close to a local shop, they should offer an opinion as to the value and if it is authentic at no charge. Remember, should you choose to sell your notes, get at least two estimates from professional coin dealers (PNG). I've listed a link for you to find them in your area. Link: http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php

Dealers normally pay between 50% to 60% of retail for items they want.

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Thank You and Good Luck in your collecting.